Itoh and Tree Peonies – Both are special types of peonies.  Tree peonies develop woody stems and do not need support and the plants grow larger and larger with more and more flowers developing on each plant.  Itoh peonies are Asian hybrids that do not develop woody stems, but don’t seem to need as much support as most other peonies.  There are some more unusual colors that are either Both tree peonies or Itoh peonies come in a much wider and exotic array of unusual color flowers. Both of which costs more money.  Those of us that have planted some of each of these in our garden don’t love the price tag but see the value after a few years.

Peony Care

Sunlight: – Peonies do best in either full sun (direct sun all day) or part sun (dappled sun or sun for about half a day).  Peonies will not flower as well if they do not get any direct sun.

Besides using the supports, peonies do not require much care. Occasionally we get questions about why peonies do not bloom.  Most literature points to he fact that peonies, like many plants, do not like to be planted too deep.  The peony eyes, show be visible in late winter early spring before the sprout up new shoots.  If you do not see the little red eyes then maybe you need to dig uip your peony roots and make sure they are level with the soil surface.

Dividing and transplanting.  The best time to raise the roots, or to divide the plants if you are looking to make more or if you need to move them to another spot then do this in August or early September.  You might be able to get away with transplanting in late winter or early spring, but August is best timing by all accounts.  The plant is going dormancy in late summer/early fall and doesn’t mind being disturbed then.

Insects – it is rare that peonies have insect problems.  However it is very common for ants to be attracted to them, especially in spring as the buds are developing and opening.  Ants are attracted to the sticky substance on the buds.  The ants are normal and do not harm the plant.  However, soem might travel in when you cut them and put them in a vase.  It is more a nuisance and not worth spraying, etc.

Diseases – there are several issues with disease on peonies.  They are a spring bloomer and foliar diseases are more prevalent when we have a wet spring.  Things such as powdery mildew are more common.  Here is a link to some of the common issues with peonies.  If you see any of these type things going on, we recommend putting a sample of this issue in a zip lock bag and bringing it to Kennedy’s.  We will do our best to help you find a solution.  In some cases, if it was newly purchased we will replace it for you.