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Peonies date back to the 13th century and were introduced by the Romans, and newer varieties were brought from China in the 19th century, and they are still a great favorite today.
There are two main classifications or forms; - Herbaceous [Paeonia officainalis] and Bush or Tree [Paeonia suffruticosa] Herbaceous peonies grow 2 to4 feet tall and Tree peonies grow 4 to 6 feet tall.
There are 5 groups of herbaceous peonies based on the petals; single, semi-double, double, Japanese and anemone. The single type is also called Chinese and is characterized by one row of broad petals that surround a cluster of yellow pollen bearing stamens.
Peony flowers range in color from brilliant white to maroon and because of the large range of variety in blossoms there is sure to be a variety to please everyone. Peonies bloom in May and June and by choosing several different varieties for your garden you can extend the flowering period considerably.
Nothing is more spectacular than a tree peony in full bloom. Tree peonies produce many flowers on single, shrub like plants. Unlike the herbaceous peony that dies down in the fall, the stems of the tree peony remain alive all winter.
Peonies are best planted in the fall. Incorporate a good fertilizer into the hole and mix well. You don't want to get the fertilizer directly on the roots. For that reason its best if you can prepare the hole a week or two before planting your peony. Select root divisions with at least 3-5 eyes and set so that the eyes are 2-3 inches below the surface of the soil, and plant at least 2-3 feet apart. They need well-drained soil improved with organic matter, and 6-8 hours of sunlight. Choose a location with good air movement to reduce the chance of disease.
It is important to spring feed soon after growth starts since peony plants make a very rapid early growth. Fertilizing well with a product low in nitrogen will insure lots of blooms. For larger blooms disbud the plant allowing only the terminal bud to form and for longer blooming leave some of the lateral buds.
About the only drawback to having peonies in the garden is that ants are beneficial at blossom time. Ants eat the waxy coating on the buds and help the blossom to open. If you feel that ants in your garden is a problem, then plant your peony somewhere that you can admire it from a distance rather that close to the patio where the ants might become a nuisance.
Lindi Karmason
'Right Plant, Right Place'
The most important element in creating a great garden is the plan. Whether you are creating a new landscape, or renovating an old one, begin with a plan. Your garden should ideally be broken down into zones. Make notes on the soil and light conditions in your garden at various times of the year. Create a simple design plan of each zone detailing the measurements, soil and light conditions.
Most gardeners enjoy an informal look to their landscape. Use organic shapes with flowing lines to create your new beds. Remember scale when creating foundation plantings next to your home. Foundation plantings should be at least 1/3 the height of your home. The taller your home, the deeper your bed should extend out from your foundation.
We are all concerned about water usage these days. I would encourage you to work with a certified irrigation specialist to come up with an irrigation plan that addresses the needs of each zone you have created. You can kill a plant with too much water just as easily as you can with not enough water. This is why the irrigation plan is just as important as any other element to your overall plan.
The term Xeriscape is very popular. It is not Zeroscape. The term Xeriscape is of Greek origin (meaning dry) and was trademarked by the Colorado Water Dept. to promote water conservation in landscaping. Xeriscaping does not mean boring - you can introduce an incredible assortment of drought tolerant plant material into a hot, dry area of your garden.
Remember that plants grow. Plant material should be chosen and situated in the garden with their soil and light requirements in mind, as well as their mature size being taken into consideration. Too many homeowners want a lush, full garden the first year. 'Overplanting' your garden will result in an overcrowded jungle as the plants reach their mature size.
Have fun with your design, and educate yourself about the ideal plants for each area of your garden.
Always follow the rule of 'right plant, right place'.
Ben Willis for Outdoor Living Rooms Design Co.
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