Paeonia

Paeonia, more commonly known as peonies, is a collection of herbaceous perennial plants native to Asia, Europe, and western North America.  Richly colored, sizeable blooms, often with double petals, carry a heavenly fragrance, filling their gardens with the colors and scents of vibrant life.  Over 30 species and countless cultivars of peonies are available, creating a catalog of unique options that allows them to suit many needs and preferences.  Two particular standouts amongst the many peony plants are the fern-leaf and tree peonies, with the former being prized for its elegant foliage and the latter for its sturdy base and vertical growth habit.  Peonies have specialized tuberous root systems consisting of bulky storage roots and fine water-collecting roots.  These unique roots require that peony plants be provided extra care during the planting and repotting processes as they are highly susceptible to damage.  Medicinal remedies can be made from the petals and roots of peony plants, and their non-toxic quality makes them safe to plant in any garden.  

Provide peony plants with a location that receives a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day, though maximizing sun-exposure should improve the number and quality of blooms.  Well-drained, slightly acidic soils are ideal for growing peonies, though heavy clays should be amended with compost or other similar soil mixtures.  Peonies require regular weekly watering to keep them growing healthily, as these plants are highly intolerant to drought.  Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plants can help to keep them hydrated as well.  Cooler climates produce healthier peony plants, with cold winters being imperative to their ability to thrive.  Light annual feedings of compost treated with a mild dose of fertilizer should provide peonies with all the nutrients they need, and it is most effective when done after the blooming period has ended.  Very little pruning is necessary when it comes to peony plants, though branches should not be allowed to touch.  If two branches grow across one another, remove the less healthy or otherwise undesired branch.  When trimming them back, peonies should be clipped just above the branches' first bud and only after the plant has finished blooming.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water moderately, allowing the top 3cm to dry out between watering.

Paeonia

Paeonia

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