Growing herbaceous and tree peonies: planting timing, fertilizing and pruning for spectacular blooms, distinguishing the two types, and popular variety recommendations.
Peonies and Tree Peonies are called the "King of Flowers" and "Prime Minister of Flowers" respectively, and are traditional Japanese flowers. Their large, luxurious blooms are worthy of being the centerpiece of a garden, and just one plant brings refinement to the garden. Both belong to the Paeoniaceae family, but they have different characteristics, so understanding each one's features is the key to cultivating beautiful flowers.
Differences Between Peonies and Tree Peonies
These two plants, which appear similar, have distinct differences.
- Peonies (Shakuyaku): Herbaceous plants (perennial herbs) that die back above ground in winter and survive winter with roots only. Plant height approximately 50-80cm
- Tree Peonies (Botan): Woody plants (deciduous shrubs) with thick branches remaining in winter. Tree height reaches 1-2m
- Peony buds emerge from the ground, while Tree Peony buds emerge from branches
- Peony leaves have a slight sheen, while Tree Peony leaves are dull with deep incisions
- Blooming period differs: Tree Peonies bloom late April to early May, Peonies bloom mid-May to early June
- Peonies are generally easier to cultivate, making them recommended for beginners
Both thrive in Japan's climate and, with proper care, can produce magnificent flowers every year.
Planting and Site Selection
The timing and location of planting greatly influence subsequent growth and flowering.
- Best planting time for Peonies: September to October. Spring planting results in poor root establishment and affects next year's flowering
- Best planting time for Tree Peonies: September to November. Grafted seedlings should be planted deeply so the graft union is buried in the soil
- A location with good sunlight is essential. An ideal location receives morning sun and afternoon partial shade
- They prefer well-draining soil. If the soil is clayey, improve it by mixing in large amounts of leaf mold and compost
- Dig a planting hole at least 40cm in diameter and depth, adding well-rotted compost and slow-release fertilizer as base fertilizer
- Tree Peony plants are often grafted; deep planting promotes development of own roots, creating longer-lived plants
Once planted, it's best not to move them. Peonies in particular dislike transplanting, so choose the location carefully at the start.
Fertilizing and Management for Abundant Flowering
Proper fertilization and daily care are essential for producing magnificent flowers every year.
- Winter fertilization (January-February) with compost and bone meal around the plant base. This is the most important fertilization for accumulating nutrients for flowers
- Post-bloom fertilizer (May-June) applying light quick-acting chemical fertilizer
- Autumn fertilizer (September) with phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizer to promote next year's flower bud formation
- When Peony buds develop in multiples, remove all but the top one to produce large flowers
- Disbudding is similarly effective for Tree Peonies. Having one flower per branch improves flower quality
- Once flowers bloom, keep them out of rain. Large flowers are easily damaged by rain, and the weight of flowers can cause branches to break
Supporting flowers with stakes prevents damage to flowers from rain and wind.
Popular Varieties
Both Peonies and Tree Peonies have many varieties, offering the pleasure of choice.
- Peonies "Sarah Bernhardt": Pink large double blooms. Internationally famous variety with good flower longevity
- Peonies "Kaguyahime": White with pink striping, a renowned Japanese variety
- Peonies "Fuji": Pure white large blooms. Outstanding in refined beauty
- Tree Peonies "Shima Daijin": Deep purple large blooms. Cherished since ancient times as a representative Tree Peony
- Tree Peonies "Kaou": Deep crimson luxurious flowers. Robust and easy to grow
- Tree Peonies "Renzuru": White large thousand-fold blooms. Elegant flower appearance
Peonies are also popular as cut flowers and serve as the main focus in flower arrangements.
Finding Peonies and Tree Peonies on br-choku
On br-choku, you can purchase Peonies and Tree Peonies seedlings directly from specialist growers. The assurance of being able to ask growers directly for detailed advice on variety characteristics and planting methods is reassuring. Try finding Peonies and Tree Peonies on br-choku to add elegance and splendor to your garden.