Help for Peonies That Were Left Unwatered

Watering

• Depending on what climate the peonies are planted, different types of watering are needed. Because peonies thrive better in cooler climates, during those months it is not necessary to water them every day, but a sprinkling of water to keep the soil wet and moist is beneficial. Peonies do not grow well in soggy soil and can become infected with fungus. If it is planted in warmer climates or an area where it receives constant sun for hours, it requires thorough, deep watering. It also benefits from watering during dry, summer months.

Feeding

• Peonies should be given fertilizer in early spring and again in the summer after they bloom. Fertilizer is best used when it is placed in the ground near the roots, but do not let it touch the roots because it will damage them. Light fertilization with a bulb fertilizer, one labeled 10-20-20, is low in nitrogen, which can impede growth in blooms. Fireplace ash sprinkled on the soil in early spring also gives the plant nutrients.

Maintenance

• Peonies love sunshine, but cannot have too much or they will dry out. If the peony plant is suffering from any type of wilting or dead areas, trim it back and give it a good watering if the soil is dry. However, check to make sure it is not a fungal disease before watering it further. Cut back the foliage as it dies in the fall to keep it healthy.

Diseases

• Peonies can suffer from many fungal infections, such as blight and white mold. If the stalk and buds start turning brown, it could be a sign of Botrytis blight. Cutting back the infected parts and ensuring the soil is draining can help prevent the fungus from spreading. Another possibility is Phytophthora bight where the infected parts become brown or black and feel similar to leather. This problem starts in the roots, so there is little chance to save it. The plant should be removed, along with the soil around it to try and save other peonies.