Peony Care: They’ve bloomed now what?!
Peonies…the most beautiful yet ever-fleeting blooms there are! Their yearly time to shine is short, which is partly why I think we cherish them so much. So after the blooms fade, what are best practices in peony care. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to tend to your peonies after they’ve bloomed to ensure they remain healthy and ready to produce spectacular blooms year after year.
1. Deadheading Spent Peony Bloom
This step is optional, however, I believe that it makes your garden look tidier. If your plants are new (within the first 3 years), I would argue that it is crucial to deadhead them. Removing spent blooms helps prevent the plant from diverting energy into seed production. Simply cut the spent flowers off, making sure to remove the entire flower stem down to the first set of leaves. Here is a 1 minute YouTube video detailing how to deadhead a peony.
2. Pruning and Tidying Up
After deadheading, take some time to tidy up your peony plants. Remove any damaged or diseased foliage. Stems or leaves that are black are likely a cool season fungus called botrytis. Removing this foliage will help ensure that it doesn’t go back into the soil and will help prevent the spread of pests and diseases. However, avoid cutting back the entire plant at this stage, as the foliage is still crucial for photosynthesis and storing energy for next year’s growth.
3. Fertilizing for Future Growth
Peonies benefit from a light feeding after blooming. Apply a thin compost layer or scoop of worm castings around the base of the plant. This will provide essential nutrients that will be stored in the roots and used for next season’s blooms. I also like to periodically spray my peonies with a Fish Emulsion (like Neptune’s Harvest). It’s an organic fertilizer that has small NPK numbers that won’t cause any issues with run-off and can’t burn your plants.
4. Watering Peonies Wisely
While peonies are relatively drought-tolerant, they still need adequate moisture, especially during dry spells. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root growth and eye development for next year’s blooms.
5. Addressing Common Pests and Diseases of Peonies
Keep an eye out for common peony problems such as botrytis blight (during cool, moist weather) and powdery mildew (during warm, rainy weather). For severe infestations or persistent issues, you may need to use appropriate fungicides. Copper fungicide for botrytis and sour milk and water for powdery mildew.
With a bit of post-bloom care, your peonies will continue to thrive and reward you with their stunning blooms year after year. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your plants stay healthy, vigorous, and beautiful. Happy gardening!
Keep Blooming,
Nicole Dillon
Breemar Flower Farm | Ashland, VA | Hardiness Zone 7B
