Peonies: A Guide to Growing and Enjoying These Beautiful Flowers
Introduction
Peonies are some of the most beautiful and popular flowers in the world. They are known for their large, showy blooms and their delicate fragrance. Peonies are relatively easy to grow, and they can be enjoyed in gardens of all sizes.
Types of Peonies
There are many different types of peonies, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types of peonies include:
- Chinese peonies (Paeonia lactiflora): These are the most common type of peony, and they are known for their large, showy blooms. Chinese peonies come in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, red, and yellow.
- Tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa): Tree peonies are known for their woody stems and their large, showy blooms. Tree peonies come in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, red, and yellow.
- Molly the witch peonies (Paeonia mlokosewitschii): These peonies are known for their unique foliage and their lemon-colored flowers. Molly the witch peonies are easy to grow, and they can be enjoyed in gardens of all sizes.
- Intersectional hybrid peonies: These peonies are a cross between herbaceous and tree peonies. Intersectional hybrid peonies are known for their large, showy blooms and their unique colors.
- Paeonia officinalis: This is a European native peony that has been in UK cultivation for nearly 500 years. It is usually found in gardens as the tough yet handsome cultivar, ‘Rubra Plena’, with double cerise-crimson flowers.
How to Grow Peonies
Peonies are relatively easy to grow, but they do have some specific requirements. Peonies prefer to grow in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They also need full sun to partial shade.
To grow peonies, follow these steps:
- Choose a planting site that receives full sun to partial shade.
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the peony plant.
- Place the peony plant in the hole and backfill with soil.
- Water the peony plant deeply.
- Mulch around the peony plant with compost or other organic matter.
How to Care for Peonies
Peonies are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they do require some basic care. Peonies need to be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. They also need to be fertilized once a year in the spring.
To care for peonies, follow these steps:
- Water peonies regularly, especially during the hot summer months.
- Fertilize peonies once a year in the spring.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth.
- Divide peonies every 3-5 years to keep them healthy and vigorous.
Scented Peonies
Some peonies are known for their fragrant blooms. These peonies are a great addition to any garden, and they can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors. Some of the most popular scented peonies include:
- Paeonia ‘Laura Dessert’
- Paeonia ‘Pink Hawaiian Coral’
- Paeonia ‘Henry Bockstoce’
- Paeonia ‘Duchesse de Nemours’
- Paeonia ‘Hermione’
- Paeonia ‘Bartzella’
- Paeonia ‘Myrtle Gentry’
- Paeonia ‘Sea Shell’
Conclusion
Peonies are beautiful and easy-to-grow flowers that can be enjoyed in gardens of all sizes. With a little care, peonies will thrive for many years and provide you with years of enjoyment.
