Peony problems - Ask Extension
Hello, 2 summers ago one of my peony bushes didn't bloom. Last summer the actual plant grew to only half the size it normally does and did not bloom ...
Knowledgebase
Peony problems #806558
Asked August 16, 2022, 1:13 PM EDT
Hello, 2 summers ago one of my peony bushes didn't bloom. Last summer the actual plant grew to only half the size it normally does and did not bloom and the other peony bush was smaller and bloomed less than normal. This year, in addition, the leaves are look like they may have some kind of blight. There are so many possible issues I was wondering if you could recommend what to try first.
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello Karen
There are a number of problems that can happen with peony. If possible, could you send photos of your bushes? Also, include a picture of the leaves---not one single leaf, but a stem that has the problem.
Here are other questions I have: How old are the peonies? Do you fertilize them? How much water do they get? Have you used a herbicide on them? Do they get full sun?
Thanks, and I'll look forward to your reply.
There are a number of problems that can happen with peony. If possible, could you send photos of your bushes? Also, include a picture of the leaves---not one single leaf, but a stem that has the problem.
Here are other questions I have: How old are the peonies? Do you fertilize them? How much water do they get? Have you used a herbicide on them? Do they get full sun?
Thanks, and I'll look forward to your reply.
Hello, I have lived here 13 years and they were here when I moved in. Have not fertilized or used herbicide. Not sure in total amount of water. In the summer I water lightly once a day. I would say there get a medium amount of sun. They are not in the shade. I with say they get more morning sun. I will attach pics in the next email. Thank u for responding.
I’m trying to attach pics in the reply but so far unsuccessful Sent from my iPhone > On Aug 21, 2022, at 3:10 PM, Karen Miller <karenmillerplat> wrote: ></karenmillerplat>
Hello, The plants were here when I moved in 13 years ago. I have not fertilized or used herbacide. They get a fair amount is sun. I would say more morning to midday. I am sure on water other than the fact I water once a day in the summer. Sent from my iPhone > On Aug 21, 2022, at 3:10 PM, Karen Miller <karenmillerplat> wrote: ></karenmillerplat>
Hello Karen,
Peonies are beautiful plants and the stars of the garden when in bloom. They can live for a very long time; I have had 2 peony shrubs in my garden that are over 50 years old. However, peonies do have problems. I noticed that you said you water them every day in the summer. Peonies require 1 inch of water a week, or up to 2 inches in a drought. Be sure to water at the base of the plant in order to prevent powdery mildew and other fungal diseases.
Peonies benefit from fertilizer. Your plant could need more phosphorous or potassium to encourage flowering. You may want to do a soil test in that area: Home | MSU Soil Test
The following is information from Cornell University Extension.
Fertilization of peonies: https://ccenassau.org/resources/peonies
Fertilize shortly after bloom is finished with a balanced
slow release plant food (3-5-5 or 5-10-10). Care should
be taken not to fertilize too close to the crown. Do not
use a high nitrogen fertilizer which tends to produce
spindly foliage and few or no blooms. Once every few
years, one or two handfuls of bone meal may be added
around each plant and gently scratched into the soil.
The following is information from the University of Connecticut Extension about flower production.
Reduced Flower Production http://www.ladybug.uconn.edu/FactSheets/peonies.php
Peonies may be left undisturbed for many years. A decline in flower production usually indicates overcrowding and the need for division. Carefully lift the clump and wash away the soil to expose the eyes. Using a clean, sharp tool, divide the clump into sections, each with three to five eyes and good roots. Replant immediately.
Failure to bloom may be the result of any of these factors:
Peonies are beautiful plants and the stars of the garden when in bloom. They can live for a very long time; I have had 2 peony shrubs in my garden that are over 50 years old. However, peonies do have problems. I noticed that you said you water them every day in the summer. Peonies require 1 inch of water a week, or up to 2 inches in a drought. Be sure to water at the base of the plant in order to prevent powdery mildew and other fungal diseases.
Peonies benefit from fertilizer. Your plant could need more phosphorous or potassium to encourage flowering. You may want to do a soil test in that area: Home | MSU Soil Test
The following is information from Cornell University Extension.
Fertilization of peonies: https://ccenassau.org/resources/peonies
Fertilize shortly after bloom is finished with a balanced
slow release plant food (3-5-5 or 5-10-10). Care should
be taken not to fertilize too close to the crown. Do not
use a high nitrogen fertilizer which tends to produce
spindly foliage and few or no blooms. Once every few
years, one or two handfuls of bone meal may be added
around each plant and gently scratched into the soil.
The following is information from the University of Connecticut Extension about flower production.
Reduced Flower Production http://www.ladybug.uconn.edu/FactSheets/peonies.php
Peonies may be left undisturbed for many years. A decline in flower production usually indicates overcrowding and the need for division. Carefully lift the clump and wash away the soil to expose the eyes. Using a clean, sharp tool, divide the clump into sections, each with three to five eyes and good roots. Replant immediately.
Failure to bloom may be the result of any of these factors:
- planting too deeply
- immature plants
- excess nitrogen promotes leafy growth
- phosphorus and/or potassium deficiency
- inadequate sunlight
- overcrowding
- insect or disease problems
- competition from roots of nearby plants
- drought
- late freezes
