Peonies' blooming period and their season of growth are detailed here. Find out when you can expect these flowers to be in bloom.
In the heart of spring, a spectacle of colour and fragrance unfolds as peonies burst into bloom. This enchanting flowering season, which spans from late spring to early summer, typically lasts from early May through June.
Peonies, with their stunning display of blooms, are a sight to behold. They are divided into two main categories: Herbaceous and Tree peonies. Herbaceous peonies, such as the Paeonia lactiflora, usually bloom in late spring, around May to early June, depending on the climate. On the other hand, Tree peonies, including the Paeonia suffruticosa, begin flowering in late spring as well, with blooms lasting into early summer. These shrubs favour hot, dry summers for optimal flowering.
Different varieties of herbaceous peonies can bloom early, mid, or late season. For instance, the 'Burma Joy' peony is an early bloomer with an extended flowering period. Other varieties like 'Bric A Brac' and 'Bride's Dream' bloom in midseason. The typical bloom duration for pink peonies is about 7-10 days, though deadheading can prolong this period slightly.
The Woodland Peony (Paeonia obovate) blooms first, around early May, followed by 'Coral Charm,' 'Wonderous Delight,' 'Red Charm,' and 'Early Bird' in early and mid-May. 'Festiva Maxima,' 'Etched Salmon,' 'Walter Mains,' and 'Sarah Bernhardt' bloom from mid-May to June, while 'Kansas,' 'Candy Stripe,' and 'Garden Treasure' bloom from mid-June to early July.
To ensure a vibrant display of peonies, it's essential to prepare the soil correctly. The soil should be rich, moderately moist, and well-draining. A balanced fertilizer should be used in spring before new growth appears, but avoid using a fertilizer with too much nitrogen as it encourages leaf growth rather than flowers. Peonies also need a certain number of dark hours overnight to bloom properly in spring.
Peonies will not tolerate soggy roots, so proper drainage is crucial. They grow best in full sun, with too much shade affecting their flowering. Peonies should be planted shallowly in the soil, with root buds about two inches (5 cm) below the soil level.
Intersectional Peonies (Itoh) bloom as the herbaceous types are fading in mid-June. Using a variety of types and cultivars of peonies can potentially extend the duration of blooms to eight weeks.
Peony chill hours are essential for the growth of buds, requiring a sustained period of winter cold below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 Celsius). This cold period helps set the stage for the stunning display of blooms come spring.
Embrace the beauty of peonies this season and enjoy the vibrant colours and sweet fragrances they bring to your garden!
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In the home-and-garden realm, various types of peonies are perfect for those who love gardening and desire to boost their lifestyle with a spectacular spectacle of colors and fragrances. From early May through June, herbaceous peonies like 'Burma Joy,' 'Bric A Brac,' and 'Bride's Dream' bloom, while Tree peonies such as 'Paeonia suffruticosa' continue the display into early summer.
