Fungal spores settle on the leaves and can even hibernate clinging to them, only to strike again the following spring. For this reason in particular, it is advisable to cut back peonies in autumn before wintering.
After the peonies have faded, they should be cut back before the cold snap
Cut down perennial peonies radically
Many a gardener radically cuts back their perennial peonies immediately after the flowering period. This is a mistake! The roots continue to draw strength from the above-ground parts of the plant until autumn. Only cut back your perennial peonies in September/October when the leaves have yellowed!
Prune shrub peonies if necessary
In principle, shrub peonies do not need pruning. But if you plan to do it anyway, fall is a good time to trim it down:
- shorten to the first bud
- who cuts more, removes the flower buds for the next year
- use sharp pruning shears that have been cleaned beforehand
tips
If individual shoots freeze after the winter, you can cut them back in the spring.