Peonies require our care in autumn so that they are properly prepared for the upcoming winter. If we skip certain treatments, we may forget about beautiful and impressive flowers next year. We tell you how to take care of your plants to keep them in good condition.
In autumn, certain treatments should be carried out that will affect the subsequent condition of the plants. We’re talking about pruning peonies. It is best to do this after the first frost, when the leaves have already turned brown, which usually happens in October or .
This is a very important activity that will not only protect peonies against fungal diseases, such as gray mold, which is common in peonies, but will also ensure better wintering. This is because peonies will no longer waste energy on saving older and dying parts of the plant, and instead will stimulate young and strong shoots to grow in spring.. Additionally, pruning peonies will make our flowerbed look better because it will be more organized.
It is best to use a sharp and disinfected tool to trim plants. Shoots should be cut low, leaving about 5 cm above the ground. This will help us avoid the problem of moisture accumulation and reduce the risk of infection.
When it comes to peonies, let’s also pay attention to the condition of the shoots. Those that are damaged or appear diseased should be removed completely, leaving no fragments. Let us also remember to carefully collect the cut elements after the procedure. Healthy ones can be composted, while those infected with diseases should be thrown away.
Read also:
After pruning our peonies, we can sprinkle compost or well-rotted manure around them to strengthen the plant. In autumn, avoid nitrogen fertilizers, which stimulate growth instead of preparing the plant for rest.
It is also a good idea to mulch. In winter, it is worth covering the place where peonies grow. We can use peat, bark, straw or pine needles for this purpose. This will help the soil maintain a stable temperature. Additionally, it will protect the buds from frost. However, remember to remove the mulch in spring so that the shoots can grow freely.
In addition, we must protect our plants from excess moisture. If they grow in a place where water stagnation often occurs, the soil should be lightly loosened so that it does not rot.
