Do You Chop Off Peonies’ Heads?

Deadheading peonies is a simple process that helps to neaten the plant and ensure more beautiful blooms next year. It involves cutting the stem just above the first set of healthy leaves, preventing the plant from producing seed pods and directing its energy towards new growth. Deadheading peonies takes only three simple steps: clean pruning shears or scissors, check their sharpness, and locate the wilting or dead part of the plant.

The process usually takes a few days, but herbaceous peonies benefit most from an autumn haircut. Deadheading peonies should be done at the right time, as they are low-maintenance plants. Deadheading peonies after they have flowered ensures that the energy of the plant is diverted into the roots and foliage, where it is required for photosynthesis and flowers.

The best time to deadhead blooms is after they have faded and are starting to wilt, but before the seed pods fully develop. Instead of extracting the head, cut the plant back to its leaf bud to keep the rest of the bloom healthy. Cuts should be made at a 45-degree angle, slanting away from any remaining foliage or buds. This helps to camouflage cut stems and shape the plant.

Leaving the seed just takes energy from the plant, so it’s essential to deadhead peonies with secateurs or scissors instead of using your hands. Deadheading peonies can improve the appearance of the plant, reduce the likelihood of fungal infections, and channel the plant’s energy into the roots and foliage for photosynthesis and flowers.