Information on Growing Peonies

Comments () | | Text size: a A | Report Abuse | Print

Share: | Email |

Overview

Peonies are a popular choice for the garden as they are easy to grow and maintain. The perennials are available in four different colors and are great both as part of a landscape or cut flower.

Peonies are an easy-to-grow perennial image by Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Sharon Mollerus

Soil Requirements

Peonies require well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range of the soil is 6.5 to 7.5.

Planting Timetable

Peonies are best planted in early fall, but they may also be planted in the spring when temperatures are moderate.

Plant Problems

Leaf blotch and botrytis, both fungal diseases; present the most problems to peonies. Harmful insects called scales are sometimes found on the plant's stalk or on leaf bases. Both the disease and insect can be easily controlled.

Time to Split

Divide the peony plant when it drastically slows in flower production. At this point, the plant has become overcrowded and must be replanted in smaller sections.

Water Requirements

Peonies need regular watering during the summer months. Water them weekly if rainfall is less than 1 inch.

References

Peony
Growing Peonies

Keywords: growing peonies, peonies, peonies and perennials

About this Author

Stephanie Green is a writer with more than 10 years of experience. Her work has been published in various lifestyle and trade publications, covering parenting, gardening and human-interest stories. Green holds a Bachelor of Arts in English.