tree peony

Tree peony requires a moderate amount of water that should be supplied whenever the soil is dry. During its active growing season from spring to midsummer, provide it with approximately 1 inch of water once a week. Once the plant is established, it can tolerate periods of dry soil once a month or even once every 2 weeks. During the hot, dry months of summer, you may need to water more frequently, as much as 2 to 3 times a week, in order to keep the soil moist. In the fall, you can reduce the frequency of watering to once every 2 weeks.

Tree peonies need 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day to thrive. High-quality blooms require an increase to 6 to 8 hours of direct sun, but this may cause the plant to wilt in full or midday sun. For best results, tree peonies should be located in a spot that gets morning sun with afternoon shade. During the hottest months, tree peonies should have some protection from heat and full sun to prevent fading. A good location is at the base of a wall, fence, or building that provides some shade in the afternoon, while still letting in enough sun, usually 3 to 4 hours in the morning. Planting close to other taller shrubs or trees can also provide good protection from the hot sun.

Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa 'Hei Hua Kui' CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS) requires minimal pruning. Prune immediately after flowering to remove dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Prune lightly to maintain the desired shape by removing weak branches or those that are rubbing against each other. When doing so, prune just above a healthy bud or intersection of branches. After flowering, prune out up to 1-third of the oldest shoots to promote new growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.