Whether you’re planting bulbs, trees or perennials, the best time to do so is when they’re dormant – before they begin their active growth. The optimal planting time depends on what you’re planting. Perennial plants are best planted in spring, but it’s better to plant peonies in the fall. Why it’s best to plant peonies in the fall Peonies are available as growing, … [Read more...] about How and when to plant peonies
tree peony
How to prune Japanese tree peonies
There seems to be some correlation between pounding rain and peony blooming schedules. My two Japanese tree peonies were smacked down by heavy rain, but I did get to see their beautiful flowers for a fleeting day or so before the devastation. Now it’s time to assess their structure, which is a bit wonky from abusive weather. I suspect they don’t stand up well to the weight of … [Read more...] about How to prune Japanese tree peonies
Tree peonies and their kin
The natural elements can be cruel. The fabulous, 10-inch (25-cm) blossoms on my mauve tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa, Zone 5) are all smashed up, the result of an unpredicted heavy rain one recent evening. That was certainly a low blow to a gardener who, with a little advance notice, would gladly have stood there holding an umbrella over the blooms during the deluge. That … [Read more...] about Tree peonies and their kin
