Peonies Are Back - April 2026

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After a few years of lackluster peony growth, last Spring I finally saw some positive improvement in the flower output of the two colonies that are dotted around our garden.  I've moved the peonies into those two colonies based on sun conditions.  The first one is in the IB2DWs bed where I have a couple of plants.  And the second is in the "kitchen curved bed" in the back where I have three more.  

Below are some photos showing the red tips emerging from the mulch.  These photos are from April 6th.  

Red Peony Tips

Red Peony Tips

I've done similar "Peonies are Back" posts over the years.  Here is that post from April 2025 - one year ago.  

Last year, I cut and preserved the blooms at the "marshmallow stage" and had peony flowers for Nat's birthday in July.  I'll do that again this year.  

Location: Downers Grove, IL, USA

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