Peonies are some of the most beloved and cherished flowers in the garden. With their lush, full blooms and delightful fragrance, it's no wonder why so many gardeners adore them. But did you know that with a little planning and some strategic planting, you can have peonies blooming nearly every day in the mid to late spring? That's right - with careful selection of cultivars and some thoughtful gardening techniques, you can enjoy weeks of peony blooms in your garden.
At Natchez Glen House, we've created a peony collection that is designed to bloom for as long as possible. We've selected a range of cultivars that bloom at different times, from early to late spring, so that we can enjoy a full spectrum of peony blooms over the course of several weeks. Here's a look at some of the peonies in our collection and when they bloom:
- Peony 'Alertie': early-mid season
- Peony 'Angel Cheeks': mid-season
- Peony 'Catharina Fontijn': mid-season
- Peony 'Coral Charm': early-mid season
- Peony 'Gardenia': mid-late season
- Peony 'Jacorma': late season
- Peony 'Pecher': mid-season
- Peony 'Red Charm': mid-season
By selecting peonies that bloom at different times, we've been able to extend our peony season for several weeks. And with a little bit of planning and strategic planting, you can do the same in your own garden.
One key to creating a long-blooming peony collection is to select cultivars that bloom at different times. Look for early-blooming varieties like 'Coral Charm' and 'Alertie', mid-season bloomers like 'Angel Cheeks' and 'Catharina Fontijn', and late-blooming varieties like 'Jacorma' and 'Gardenia'. By mixing these cultivars together in your garden, you can create a long-lasting peony display.
Another important factor to consider is planting location. Peonies prefer full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. Make sure to plant your peonies in an area that gets plenty of sunlight and has good drainage. Avoid planting them in low-lying areas where water can collect, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
Proper care and maintenance is also key to keeping your peony collection blooming for as long as possible. Make sure to fertilize your peonies in early spring and prune back dead foliage in the fall to encourage healthy growth. And if you want to propagate your peonies, wait until the fall and divide them then.
With these tips and a little bit of planning, you can create a stunning and long-lasting peony collection in your own garden. Imagine being greeted by a new burst of color and fragrance every few days as your peonies take their turn in the spotlight. It's a garden display that is truly unforgettable.