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Tree peony with new growth? #879165

Asked July 28, 2024, 9:52 PM EDT

I have had a tree peony for three years. It’s a beautiful light pink flower that blooms early June. I have not moved it since I planted it three years ago. This year there was new “non-tree” peony shoots that grew out the bottom that are a totally different variety of peony than what the tree is. My question is, do I try to dig down and separate the peony growth from the tree peony growth? I’m worried it will hurt the healthy tree. Or cut it back? Why would a new variety (that I do not have in my garden) grow after three years? Help?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Tree peonies are often grafted on a herbaceous root stock. They can occasionally send up root stock. If there are just a few herbaceous shoots cut them close to the ground. If there is a large amount of herbaceous growth you may need to dig up the plant this fall and separate the roots. 
Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied August 10, 2024, 8:26 PM EDT

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