What Causes Peony’ Brown Leaves?

Peony plants can be affected by various diseases, including leaf blotch, powdery mildew, black spot, and fusarium. These diseases can cause the leaves to turn brown due to environmental stress, fungal infections, and pest infestations. Root issues may also contribute to the browning of peony leaves. Brown leaves may indicate root problems, fungal diseases, or insect infestations.

Botrytis blight is a common fungal disease that causes peony buds to turn brown and fail to open, as well as leaves and stems, producing a fuzzy gray mold. This can result from overwatering, underwatering, and environmental stress. Healthy peonies require well-drained soil and stable temperatures.

Peony wilt, also known as peony or botrytis blight, is a fungal infection of peonies that produces brown patches on the leaves and stems. Badly affected leaves and stems may collapse and die. Peony leaf blotch is likely responsible for the large, brown spots, caused by the fungus Cladosporium paeoniae. The browning of peony buds is likely due to botrytis blight.

If the stems and leaves of a peony suddenly turn brown and begin to wilt in early spring or summer, the plant may have contracted peony wilt. New leaves can emerge without symptoms, while older leaves turn brown and collapse or fall. Standing water on the leaves promotes nematode spread.

Botrytis cinerea attacks stems, buds, and leaves, appearing at any time of the growing season but most common in late spring and early summer. To fix these issues, it is essential to maintain good air quality and avoid overwatering, underwatering, and environmental stress.