Nurturing Tree Peonies: A Guide to Cultivating a Vibrant Shrub Boasting Stunning Blossoms
Bellissima Tree Peonies: A Divine Difference
Get ready to indulge in some horticulture heaven! Venture into the enchanting world of Tree Peonies (or Paeonia suffruticosa) and witness the captivating contrast they offer compared to their kin – the common, herbaceous peonies. These unique shrubs are native to China, adorning the land as the country's national flower.
Standing taller with a woody trunk and stem, these Tree Peonies reach heights of 7 feet (2m), whereas herbaceous peonies remain petite at just 2-3 feet (60-90cm). With breathtaking blooms in shades of magenta, gold, white, cerise, and lavender, these showstoppers add allure and drama to any garden.
Once the flowers fall, tree peonies continue to captivate during fall with striking bronze and purple foliage, all before dazzling once more in the cooler months. Read on to learn how to cultivate your own divine tree peonies and appreciate their seamless blend of elegance and tenacity.
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How do Tree Peonies Differ from Other Peonies?
As you delve into the realm of tree peonies, you may be struck by their dissimilarities in growth patterns compared to other types of peonies. These differences can be summed up in their growth habits, blooming characteristics, and care requirements:
Growth Habits- Tree Peonies are robust shrubs with stems that persist year-round. Their branches endure winter, shedding leaves but preserving the woody structure to regrow in spring. Grown adults may reach heights of 3 to 5 feet (1.2-1.5m) tall.- Herbaceous peonies, on the other hand, die back each winter and reemerge from their roots in spring, averaging 2 feet tall.
Blooming Times and Characteristics- Tree peonies bloom earlier, usually emerging in early to mid-spring, whereas herbaceous peonies bloom later in the season.- Tree peony blooms boast large, dramatic flowers that span 8 to 10 inches, often showcasing a striking contrasting color in the petal center.- Herbaceous peony flowers are traditional, nostalgic blooms, smaller in scale and late to emerge in the blooming season[1][2][3].
Growing Conditions and Care- Tree peonies thrive in partial shade or dappled sun to shield their blooms and foliage from the afternoon sun's harsh rays. Tree peonies are hardy to temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). They enjoy cooler climates replete with dappled sun in the north and full sun in the northern states.- Herbaceous peonies demand at least 5 to 6 hours of sunlight a day. Although they brave more intense heat than tree peonies[1].
In essence, tree peonies differ from other peonies with their stately woody growth, earlier and larger, colorful blooms, and an affinity for shade and space to display their grace. Herbaceous peonies, though traditional in personality, are petite, late bloomers with smaller flowers[1][2][3].
A Brash, Bold Beauty: Tree Peony Care
With the correct tender loving care, a properly positioned tree peony can blossom for an astounding century. Caring for a tree peony is not a challenge beyond reach if you adhere to these essential guidelines:
Light & Temperature
Tree peonies are adaptable to sun in regions with cooler summers, but in warmer climates, planting in partial sun and shade is recommended to safeguard the blossoms and foliage from the oppressive afternoon sun.
Water & Soil
Avoid letting tree peonies withstand drought, as they need consistent moisture. Nevertheless, their roots dislike soggy conditions. To offer the perfect balance, the soil should be both fertile and well-draining. Notably, tree peonies opt for a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH, and a site without competition from roots of other shrubs or trees.
Fertilization
In spring, nourish the tree peony with a general-purpose fertilizer with a higher phosphorus level (5-10-5) to provide essential nutrients. Tree peonies may also benefit from annual iron sulfate and bone meal feedings in spring. A layer of mulch, 4 inches thick, can be added around the plants, taking care to keep it away from the trunks to provide weed prevention and water retention.
Pests, Diseases, and Pruning
Although ant infestations are less prevalent in tree peonies, they are susceptible to diseases such as canker, leaf blight, stem wilt, and root rot. Avoid these issues by watering directly at the root zone and applying a layer of mulch over the root zone each winter to deter borers.
Resist the urge to prune in the first few years, allowing the plant to build its foundation. After this period, only remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches and faded blossoms.
The Grand Entrance: Planting a Tree Peony
The optimal time to plant a tree peony is in the autumn. If you come across a tree peony in a pot, you can still plant in the fall or spring, with the proviso of not setting it in the ground during the hot summer.
Locate the planting spot away from the roots of other trees to ensure good drainage and space. The soil at this location should be fertile, well-draining, slightly alkaline, and neutral to slightly alkaline. Enrich the soil with compost or well-aged manure if needed. An iron sulfate amendment may be included if a soil test indicates a need.
Bear in mind that tree peonies are slow growers, and it may take up to four years before you enjoy the fruits of your labor in the form of stunning blooms. Provide them with the care and dedication they deserve, and you will be rewarded with a lifetime of unparalleled beauty.
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