Does Every Peony Require Staking?

Staking each stem of a peony can help keep the blooms upright above the foliage. However, many people are unwilling to devote that level of care. Some types of peonies, such as intersectional and tree peonies, do not typically require staking, but they are valued for their ability to support their own weight. Herbaceous peonies also need staking to keep the large heavy flowers off the ground when blooming. Ring stakes designed for peonies can be found at most garden supply shops, but it is important not to pierce the crown with support legs or stakes, as this could damage the plant.

When peonies have already begun to unfurl, staking may be necessary. Some peonies will be sturdy enough not to need it, but most do. A few deftly positioned twigs of birch or hazel can be used. The traditional way to support peonies is simply using a stake to support each stem, which can be made from various materials, such as bamboo or natural branches from your garden.

Bloom time for peonies typically falls in late spring to early summer, providing a stunning display of large, fragrant flowers. Some peonies, especially double-flowered types, may require staking to prevent their heavy blooms from drooping. Once the stems are several inches tall, it is time to stake each of the rows of peonies to ensure they are well-bolstered as they mature.

Some peony varieties require support to keep their large, heavy flowers upright, while others have stronger stems and can stand on their own without staking. Metal stakes can be used for peonies over 3 years old, and twine can be used to support larger peonies. Over 175 of our herbaceous beauties, mostly heirloom varieties, need staking each spring.

What peonies do not require staking?

Paeonia ‘Blaze’ (Peony) is a popular perennial plant known for its beautiful flowers, fragrance, and bold foliage. It is a prolific and strong grower, perfect for the perennial border and flower arrangements. Peony flowers add a dazzling splash of color to the landscape and are deer-proof. However, large peony flowers, especially heavy double-flowered types, can overload stems, causing them to arch towards the ground and fall or break. Single or Anemone flowering peonies, with smaller flowers, are less prone to bowing and ‘kissing the ground’ but still need support to withstand the worst storms.

Peony rings are not guaranteed to prevent flower shattering and may make them appear in prison. Staking each stem may be the only way to keep the blooms upright above the foliage, but many gardeners are unwilling to devote that level of care.

What peonies do not flop?

Herbal peonies have a variety of stem structures, including non-staking stems that support the weight of flowers, compact growth habits that hold foliage and flowers closer to the main stem, and single-flowered or Japanese-type peonies with fewer petals that make their flowers lighter and less prone to flopping. Breeders have developed and selected cultivars with strong stems over the years, creating varieties that are less likely to flop or require staking.

For example, ‘Do Tell’ is a compact and short variety suitable for the front of the border without requiring support. However, large or older specimens with prolific blooms may benefit from support. Factors such as weather conditions, soil fertility, placement in the border, and individual plant health can also influence the need for staking, even within the same cultivar. Observing the growth and bloom habits of each peony and providing appropriate support when necessary is always recommended.

Why do my peonies always fall over?

The weight of the blooms exerts a downward force on the stems, which can cause them to bend and, consequently, result in the drooping and dropping of flowers. While tomato cages can be an effective solution, it is worth noting that some garden supply companies offer stronger perennial cages that may offer superior performance. The use of water-holding bowls has been observed to result in the premature dropping of flowers to the ground.

Do peonies need to be tied up?

To support peonies, use 4 to 6 strong stakes around the plant’s perimeter, and consider using metal stakes for older plants. Longfield Gardens offers a variety of planted bulbs, including perennials, indoor bulbs, and specials. To learn more about their services, visit their website, contact them at 855-534-2733, or visit their website for more information. Additionally, they provide a hardiness zone map and a FAQ section.

Do peonies always need a support?

The majority of peony varieties available at garden centers require some form of support during their blooming period. These plants are particularly susceptible to damage from rain or harsh winds when they are left to droop to the ground.

Do peonies multiply on their own?

1. Dig around the peony plant using a sharp spade, ensuring not to damage the roots. Rinse the roots with a hose to remove any dirt and identify the crown buds. Leave the roots in the shade to soften them and make cutting easier.

2. Cut the roots back to about 6 inches (15 cm.) from the crown, as the crown grows into the peony. Each piece should have at least one visible crown bud.

3. Continue dividing peonies until you have as many as possible from the original roots. Plant the pieces in a suitable location, ensuring the buds are not more than 2 inches (5 cm.) under the soil. Store the pieces in peat moss until ready to plant on a warmer day, but don’t store them too long to prevent drying out and preventing growth.

By following these steps, you can propagate peony plants quickly and create many plants in no time. Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter to receive a free download of our DIY eBook “Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter”.

Do peonies do better in pots or in the ground?

Peonies thrive in a variety of soil types, including well-drained clay soil. To ensure optimal growth and bloom, it is essential to provide at least a half day of sun and good drainage. Some gardeners are planting peonies in large patio pots or raised beds, but it is crucial to ensure adequate drainage and watering more frequently than ground planted peonies.

To prepare the planting site, dig a hole about 15 x 15 inches and fill it with spaded soil. Place the peony root downward at any angle, with the ‘eyes’ facing upward. Plant the roots near the surface of the ground with just one inch to two inches of soil on top of the ‘eyes’. Avoid planting the peony roots too deeply, as this can result in foliage growth without flowers.

Newly planted bare root peonies will establish feeder roots when planted in the Fall, and winter freezing temperatures will not affect roots planted in the ground. Potted peonies require a large container with adequate drainage, and the eyes should be covered with only one inch to two inches of soil. Water the potted peonies thoroughly upon planting or transplanting, watering them every couple of weeks during dry weather. Once the fall/winter rains arrive, you may not need to water your peonies until you have dry weather in the spring/summer.

Once a peony plant is several years old, it is fairly drought tolerant, but they do appreciate a good watering every few weeks in hot summers. An established peony plant does not need frequent watering. Fertilize your peony plants early in the spring using a slow release fertilizer, as other fertilizers will burn the foliage. If you are fertilizing potted peonies, use a slow release fertilizer, as other fertilizers will burn the foliage.

Deadhead flower/seed pods after bloom and trim your peony stems to shape the bush as desired. If you want to let seed pods mature, leave them on the stems until they crack open in late summer. Plant the seeds in the ground or potting flats and keep moist until the fall rains come. Some seeds will germinate the following spring, while others will sprout the second spring.

Cut peony stems to ground level in the late fall and remove the stems and leaves from the garden for good sanitation. Do not compost peony leaves and stems. Mulching is not required in the Northwest, but some gardeners in very cold winter climates mulch for the winter, but be sure to remove the mulch in the spring to avoid planting too deeply.

How to keep peonies from flopping over?

Peony blooms often flop over due to their large size compared to their stems. To prevent this, it is recommended to install plant supports early in the season, using half-circle and full circle supports. Full-circle supports are best for peonies, and metal supports are recommended. Modified tomato cages can also be used as supports. Supports should be placed on the plant early, preferably before or just as shoots emerge in spring.

It is also possible to have a bloom or two flop over even with a support. Itoh peonies, a cross between tree and herbaceous peonies, are bred to have stronger stems. Heritage peonies are floppers, so support is mandatory.

Do I need to stake my peonies?

Peonies require the use of a support structure, or “staking,” to prevent the heavy weight of their flowers from causing them to bounce off the ground during the blooming period. Ring stakes, which are available for purchase at garden supply stores, can be utilized from an early stage to facilitate the growth of stems within the rings.

Do peonies need to be propped up?

To prevent diseases in peonies, place supports around their sprouts in early spring, like peony rings or tomato cages, to allow them to grow through. This allows them to be left until fall when pruning time is needed. Peonies are susceptible to botrytis blight, a fungal disease that spreads when temperatures and humidity rise in spring. To prevent botrytis, remove any diseased foliage from the previous year and ensure mulch doesn’t touch peony stems, as this can lead to disease later in the season.