Peonies

KLF01

I planted two in the spring/summer. They were doing okay, but now as it is getting colder the one looks like it is dying. The other one looks better. Should I be cutting them back for the winter, or just leave them alone? I am in Zone 6. Thanks!

j+k

I'd cut back the one that looks like it's dying but leave the one that looks okay.  Peonies in the Midwest where I'm at brown in September/october and that's when I cut my back, but I would think yours should not brown for some time. Have you googled peonies for your zone?   

RoRo10733

I cut mine back last year (b/c they looked like they were dying) and was sad b/c I thought they had decided not to come back in the Spring. The new shoots will look kinda weird (they remind me of reddish colored celery sticks) but they will turn into what they were the year before!

EmmieB

We have a peony tree that we literally do nothing to. We don't even water it because of where it's located. It blooms in Jan/Feb and a little through the spring and then is "dormant" until late fall again.

If your are bushes they might have a similar cycle. Like the PP said, I would prune away the dead bits and then make sure to protect them from any frosts. They might just need a little more time to establish their root systems.

Good luck!

nicole-n-chris

you cut them all the way down to the ground once they turn brown.  in the spring, you will see the new growth coming up from the ground and they will grow bigger than the year before!

FYI - when you cut them back - don't leave them in the bed or add to your compost - they can harm the soil and other plants!

britneylindsey

I am really glad that this question was asked----I had no idea that I was supposed to cut them back after they turn brown!! I just planted mine this year, and really am pretty clueless so thanks for posting, and thanks for everyone's tips!