Paeonia lactiflora
perennialZones 3–8deer resistantBeloved heirloom perennial with enormous, fragrant double flowers in late spring. Exceptionally long-lived -- plants can bloom for 50+ years. A cottage garden icon.
Place peony support rings over emerging shoots in early spring. Heavy double blooms will flop without support.
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer as shoots emerge. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Remove faded flowers to keep plant tidy. Cut just below the flower, leaving the stem and leaves to feed the roots.
After frost blackens the foliage, cut all stems to 2 inches above soil. Remove and dispose of debris to reduce disease.
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