Peonies are cherished garden plants, celebrated for their abundant and fragrant blooms. Among the many varieties, the ‘Golly’ peony adds significant charm to any garden space.
Understanding the Golly Peony
The ‘Golly’ peony, scientifically known as Paeonia lactiflora ‘Golly’, is a stunning herbaceous perennial. It produces unique, large double flowers that feature apple-blossom pink guard petals, a ring of golden-yellow staminodes, and a small tuft of pink petals at the center. These lightly fragrant blooms typically appear in late spring to early summer, usually flowering for about 7-10 days.
This vigorous plant forms a lush, bushy mound of glossy, emerald green, divided foliage. ‘Golly’ peonies can reach a height of approximately 60-85 cm (24-34 inches) and spread between 60-90 cm (24-36 inches). The foliage remains attractive throughout the summer and often develops appealing colors in the fall, contributing to its garden appeal beyond the blooming period.
Planting Golly Peonies
Successful establishment of ‘Golly’ peonies begins with careful site selection, ensuring adequate sunlight and well-draining soil. The optimal time for planting ‘Golly’ peony roots is in the fall, allowing the plant to establish its root system before winter dormancy.
When planting, dig a hole about 30 cm (12 inches) wide and 10 cm (4 inches) deep. Position the peony tuber or root, with its “eyes” (growth buds) facing upwards, no more than 2.5-5 cm (1-2 inches) below the soil surface. Planting too deeply can significantly hinder blooming. Space individual plants about 60-90 cm (2-3 feet) apart for proper air circulation and growth. After placement, backfill the hole gently and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Caring for Golly Peonies
Light Requirements
‘Golly’ peonies require abundant sunlight to produce spectacular blooms. They perform best when exposed to a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. Providing morning sun with some afternoon shade can be beneficial, particularly in warmer regions, to protect the foliage from intense heat. Insufficient light can lead to reduced flowering and overall plant vigor.
Watering Needs
These peonies prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil, but are sensitive to overwatering. During dry periods and in their establishment phase, watering approximately twice a week helps maintain lush foliage and supports blooming. Once established, peonies become more drought-tolerant, but watering once every two weeks during prolonged dry spells is beneficial. Reduce watering significantly after the flowering season as the plant enters dormancy.
Soil Preferences
‘Golly’ peonies thrive in well-aerated soil that drains effectively, preventing water from pooling around the roots. A soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (6.5-7.0) is ideal. Incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure improves soil structure, fertility, and drainage. Heavy clay soils can be amended with organic material to enhance suitability.
Fertilization
Established ‘Golly’ peonies generally do not require heavy fertilization, especially if the soil was well-prepared. If soil testing indicates nutrient deficiencies, or for young plants, a balanced 10-10-10 formula can be applied in early spring as new growth emerges. A low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizer (such as a 5-10-10 blend) encourages blooms rather than excessive foliage. Apply fertilizer around the drip line, a few inches away from the plant’s crown, and water thoroughly to help nutrients penetrate the soil. Over-fertilization, especially with high nitrogen, can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers.
Support and Pruning
Due to their large, heavy blooms, ‘Golly’ peonies often benefit from support to prevent stems from flopping. Installing support rings or stakes in early spring, as shoots emerge, provides necessary structure. Pruning involves deadheading spent flowers during the blooming season to maintain appearance and direct energy. In late fall, after the foliage has died down or after the first heavy frost, cut the plant stems back to the ground level to prevent disease.
Addressing Common Golly Peony Challenges
‘Golly’ peonies are generally robust, but gardeners may encounter a few common issues. A frequent concern is the lack of blooms, which can stem from improper planting depth or insufficient sunlight. If the “eyes” are buried too deeply, or if the plant receives less than six hours of daily sun, flowering may be inhibited.
Fungal diseases, such as botrytis blight (gray mold), can affect peonies, especially during cool, damp weather. Symptoms include browning and rotting of young shoots, buds, or flowers, often with a gray, fuzzy mold. Prevention involves ensuring good air circulation by proper spacing and and removing all plant debris, especially in the fall, to eliminate overwintering fungal spores.
Ants are commonly observed on peony buds, attracted to the sugary nectar produced by the developing flowers. While their presence can be alarming, ants are harmless to the plant and do not cause damage or indicate disease. They collect the sweet secretions and depart once the flowers open.