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flowers and a new range of colors that include yellows and other flower colors. However, tree peonies are generally not as hardy so will need to be planted in a protected site or mulched over the winter," he said. "Unlike the herbaceous types, these plants actually develop woody stems that should persist and continue to grow from one year to the next, allowing the plant to get larger each year."
• Supporting peonies
One of the biggest issues with growing peonies Graper explained is that the flower heads become quite heavy as the flowers develop and without support the plants tend to droop.
• "Unfortunately what usually happens is that just when the flowers are at their prettiest, they get knocked down by a storm. The stems often fall over from the weight of a large flower soaked by rain and blown by winds," he said.
• If this happens to you, Graper said gardeners should consider placing some support for the flower stems in place in the spring, just as the new shoots are beginning to grow.
• "The most effective method is to use a piece of woven wire or even a piece of cattle panel, suspended about a foot above the ground by surrounding stakes. You can also purchase round mesh supports from garden centers and online outlets," he said. "Trying to tie them up, after they have fallen, usually doesn't work very well so these stems often end up in a vase on the kitchen table which will add color and a wonderful aroma to your home."
• Some gardeners might be surprised at the cost of a peony plant, especially for some types like the fern-leaf peony which can cost $20 to $50 for a single plant. But remember that a peony is an investment in your garden that will pay dividends for many years to come.