Many people think that peonies do not require care. But if you don’t prepare them for winter in the fall, you may be left without luxurious buds next summer. The good news is that everything you need will take less than an hour for the entire garden, and the results will delight you for years.
Here's what to do in October:
1. Trim off all aboveground parts
As soon as the leaves turn yellow and begin to fall to the ground, cut the stems almost to the root, leaving stumps 2–3 cm high. This will stop the development of fungi and prevent pests from overwintering in dry stems.
2. Remove all trash
Rake and burn all clippings and fallen leaves, especially if there has been any sign of blight or powdery mildew. Do not leave them under bushes: the spores will overwinter and attack the plants again in the spring.
3. Do not fertilize with nitrogen, use only potassium and phosphorus
In October, peonies do not need growth, but rather preparation for dormancy. Feed 1 tbsp. l. double superphosphate and 1 tbsp. l. potassium sulfate under each bush, lightly buried in the soil. This will strengthen the roots and lay renewal buds for next year.
Important: do not mulch peonies with sawdust, peat or leaves. They do not need shelter, as they are not afraid of frost. But excess moisture and shelter can cause the root collar to rot.
If you do everything on time, peonies will delight you with large, fragrant flowers in June.
