The peony, often affectionately referred to as the buttercup, is a blossom renowned for its opulence, boasting rich, mostly double or semi-double petals that form peony-like flowers, albeit on a smaller scale with a diameter of 8cm~10cm.
Given its distinct features, it is commonly known as the "peony," while some liken its leaves to celery, leading to the occasional moniker of celery flower.
Peonies present a kaleidoscope of colors, appealing to a wide range of preferences. Whether it be the purity of white, the passion of red, the warmth of yellow, the girlish charm of pink, or the mysterious allure of black-red, the peony never fails to captivate with its diverse palette.
Peony Breeding Methods
Sunshine: Peonies thrive in prolonged soft sunlight, requiring at least 4 hours of exposure daily for optimal flowering. Placement in an area with long periods of diffused sunlight is recommended during care.
Temperature: These flowers favor warmth and are sensitive to cold. Maintaining an environment between 10 ℃ and 25 ℃ is ideal for their growth.
Watering: During the growth phase, peonies demand slightly more water to prevent soil dryness. However, at other times, moderation is key to maintaining a slightly dry soil state, preventing excessive growth or root rot.
Fertilization: To support healthy growth, peonies benefit from nutrient-rich soil. Applying liquid fertilizer with comprehensive nutrients during the growing season aids growth, while phosphorus fertilizer before flowering enhances blooming.
Notes on Growing Peony
After peony flowers fade, promptly remove residual flowers and trim dry, dead branches and leaves. This aids in nutrient preservation and accelerates post-bloom growth.
Peonies thrive in well-ventilated environments. Providing ample ventilation during care fosters robust growth.
While peonies are adaptable, they prefer a humid environment and dislike drought. Placement on a south-facing balcony should be avoided to prevent sunburn.
Adequate light is essential for vibrant peony blooms, but excessive sunlight may damage flowers, necessitating proper shading.
Frequent pruning of residual flowers and generous application of liquid fertilizer encourage a stronger root system, resulting in increased flower production. However, excessive watering should be avoided to prevent rapid root rot.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Peonies flourish in cool, semi-shady environments, detesting extreme heat. The preferred growing temperature ranges from around 20 ℃ during the day to 7 ~ 10 ℃ at night. They thrive in well-drained, fertile, and loose neutral or alkaline soil.
Entering dormancy after June, peonies hail from western Asia and southeastern Europe, with a preference for mild climates, fresh, moist air, sparse shade, and an aversion to both cold temperatures and scorching sun.
For enthusiasts looking to sow peony seeds, it's crucial to choose a suitable environment with a temperature of approximately 20 degrees Celsius to expedite germination.
Inadequate temperatures may hamper germination rates, emphasizing the importance of providing the right conditions for these exquisite blooms to thrive.
Soil Preparation: Peonies appreciate well-prepared soil. Before planting, ensure the soil is well-drained, enriched with organic matter, and slightly acidic for optimal growth.
Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around peony plants helps regulate soil temperature, and conserves moisture. This contributes to a healthier and more vibrant peony garden.
Supporting Structures: As peonies boast large, captivating blooms, providing adequate support through stakes or cages ensures the plants remain upright, preventing damage to both flowers and stems.
