Big and blowsy, peonies might be the stars of our spring borders, but their beauty is fleeting, lasting just eight weeks.
"Peonies are often described as the divas of the flower world. They start as tiny marble-sized buds before erupting into up to 100 ruffled petals, more than doubling in size," says Lucy Hook, Flower Expert at Bloom & Wild.
"Because their flowering season is so short and British weather can be unpredictable, cutting them to enjoy indoors is the best way to watch them safely unfold."
But if you've grown your own, you may be wondering what to do with peonies after flowering.
Bloom & Wild The 100% British Pink Peony Bouquet
A little care can help them stay healthy and bloom again next year. Follow the steps below to ensure bigger blooms next year:
1. Deadhead spent flowers — once your peonies have finished flowering, cut off faded blooms just below the seed head. Make sure you leave the leaves intact through summer and early autumn, removing only diseased or damaged leaves.
"Crucially, the golden rule is to leave plenty of foliage behind instead of chopping the plant right back to tidy up your borders," says Lucy. "Leaving those green leaves intact allows the plant to photosynthesise through the summer, which builds up the underground tuber to fuel another great crop next year."
2. Water well and feed — peonies need water to survive, even after flowers have died back. Prolonged dryness during periods of drought could affect next year's flowers. You could also use this as an opportunity to apply a balanced fertiliser around the plant to encourage better blooms.
3. Cut back in the autumn — after your foliage turns yellow, cut stems down to about 2-5cm above ground level. Apply a thin layer of compost around the plant, but make sure you don't bury the crown.
Lucy adds: "You don't even need to worry about slugs, snails, or squirrels ruining the look, either. Peony leaves have a naturally bitter taste that acts as a built-in deterrent, so it is a stress-free way to keep your borders looking healthy whilst the plant prepares for next year."
For Peony-Lovers
Hand Painted Peony Terracotta Plant Pot
Hand Painted Peony Candle
The Robin’s Whisper Pure Peony Wax Melt
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
