How to Keep Peonies Upright After Flowering

Herbaceous peonies grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 3 through 7 and require little care once established. The plants burst with pink, white or fuchsia flowers in the late spring and grow up to 4 feet in height and width. Some varieties of peony don’t need staking since their flowers are light; heavier peony types benefit from staking to keep flowers upright when they open. You have a few options on how to keep the heavy peonies upright.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You’ll Need

• Circular stake
• Bamboo stake
• Twine
• Scissors

1. Push a circular stake through the developing peony stems in the spring. As the peony plant grows, the stems grow through the grid structure of the circular stake for natural support. When the peony flowers, the stems won’t flop over because of this support.
2. Push a bamboo garden stake into the ground beside the heavy stem when the peony flowers. Choose a stake that’s at least 6 inches lower than the plant stem. Tie the heavy stem to the stake with twine so it won’t list over.
3. Tie the peony stems together with twine about 1 foot off the ground. This holds all the peony stems in a bundle and cuts down peony drooping. Do this either before or during flowering.
4. Remove side buds from heavy stems to keep them upright. Put your fingers around the side bud before it opens and push it up so it comes off the plant. You’ll have fewer flowers, but your stems should not droop.