peony

Peonies should be watered deeply at least once per week during their growing season. Water at the base of the plant rather than from over the top to keep the foliage dry and to prevent fungal diseases. If the soil feels dry an inch below the surface, it is time to water. Aim to water enough so that the soil is moist at least 8 inches deep. Reduce watering during the winter months after the plant has gone dormant, when the growth of the plant slows down, and water only when the soil is very dry.

Peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Mikado') plants need an average of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight a day, preferably in the early morning hours. Too much direct sunlight can be harmful to the peony, while too little will prevent the blooms and foliage from reaching their full potential. The optimum sun exposure for Paeonia Lactiflora 'Mikado' is full sun, or 6-8 hours a day. The more shade or less sunlight the peony receives, the fewer flowers it will produce. If possible, provide some afternoon shade in areas with particularly hot summers to protect the plant from heat stress.

For the Paeonia lactiflora 'Mikado' peony, pruning should start in late autumn, just after flowering has finished and all foliage has died back. Prune the plant back by cutting it down to just above the ground, removing all dead foliage. If there is dieback present, this should also be pruned away. Pruning too much can prevent flowering in the following year, so it's important not to be too severe. In late winter, just before new growth begins, lightly prune the shrub by removing any crossing or overgrown stems. This will help to keep the shape of the plant and promote new and healthy growth. Early spring is also a good time for light pruning, as this pruning won’t reduce flowering. Simply remove any wilted or weak foliage and thin out any overcrowded branches or stems. Overall, the amount of pruning should be light and the shrub should not be over-pruned.