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I don't know much about peonies so could somebody help me.

8 years ago

I made the statement to a friend of mine that I would like to have a red peony. I had lost one given to me by my mother-in-law who is now deceased. My friend gave me a start of hers that is now in a pot. I did not have a chance to put it in the ground. I heard that we are to have a hard frost tonight so I brought it and my rosemary into the garage. Did I mess it up.? It has not had a chance to put out any roots and I didn't know how to handle it. Could somebody advise me? Also, it looks kind of white on the leaves. Is this a disease? I have others but neverr paid attention and they would just start in the Spring without any trouble like my roses. Thanks for any help. Barb

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Comments (12)

KarenPA_6b
8 years ago
I assume that you received a division from your friend's plant. That division should have a tuberous root with a crown that has "eyes" or little buds that will sprout into stems next spring. Since fall is the best planting time for peonies, it is ideal now to cut off the foliage and stems down to 2 inches. Dig a hole and plant the tuber with the eyes 1-2 inches below ground. Next spring you should see little pips coming up where you plant the peony. Please do not leave the peony in the pot and plant next spring. You should plant it in the ground as soon as possible. Good luck!
lizbest1
8 years ago
I second what Karen said! Fall is the optimum time to plant peonies, can be planted all the way up until the ground is frozen. The root you have in the pot should be dormant now so you shouldn't even need to water when you plant it unless the soil is entirely dry in the area you put it. Avoid boggy areas and lots of shade and you should be fine. Good luck with your new peony!
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calistoga_al ca 15 usda 9
8 years ago
A picture would help, also knowing your zone or at least where you are. Al
Barb Conrad
Original Author
7 years ago
My peony has bloomed--got the blooms all knocked off by rain and wind and now is looking like it has some kind of mold on it. What can I use, or should I just cut it back. I'm not a believer in sprayin any of my plants.
lizbest1
7 years ago
Is it all over the plant or on a section, Barb? If it's not all over I'd just remove the impacted pieces. Do you give it supplemental water? If you water in a way that the stream hits the foliage I'd change that so that only the ground is wetted. I've never sprayed my peonies, we're pretty dry here in CO, but have heard of people/growers using fungicides for mold issues.
Barb Conrad
Original Author
7 years ago
Seems to always happen after blooming. I wondered if I should just cut it clear back. It looks like dark round spots and a sort of mildew. Live in Northwest Indiana and don't have the ability to take pictures. Sorry. Barb
maifleur01
7 years ago
If you cut it back completely you are loosing the nutrients from this years growth. On a well established plant it might not matter but on a newly planted one it could be a kiss of death. Just cut off the effected parts.
Barb Conrad
Original Author
7 years ago
It's all over, Better just let it go. It still comes back every year. Thanks. Barb
Teri Cox
7 years ago
Hi Barb,

I don't know where you are located and the planting advice given is excellent. However, if you are in Colorado, plant peonies with the eyes at ground level rather than 2 inches below. Otherwise, they will not get cold enough to bloom.
maifleur01
7 years ago
Where in Colorado does it not get cold enough to bloom? Just curious.
Teri Cox
7 years ago
Anywhere on the front range from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs. Not that it doesn't freeze but we rarely have prolonged cold spells.
maifleur01
7 years ago
last modified: 7 years ago
Here are your temperature averages etc. should be fine for peonies. No need to plant them at the surface. I think the average low of 17F for January gives plenty of cooling time.

http://www.usclimatedata.com/climate/fort-collins/colorado/united-states/usco0140

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