The ‘Susie Q’ Peony is a cherished addition to many gardens, known for its classic appeal and stunning floral display. This timeless choice offers visual delight and enduring charm in perennial beds.
Unique Characteristics of Susie Q Peony
The ‘Susie Q’ Peony (Paeonia lactiflora ‘Susie Q’) showcases large, double, rose-shaped blooms. These blossoms typically feature a vibrant, often described as bubblegum or bright pink, coloration, sometimes with a subtle creamy-pink hue and a hint of white near the petal bases. The flowers are notably fragrant, emitting a sweet, mild perfume.
This herbaceous perennial blooms mid-season, from late spring into early summer, typically May to June. ‘Susie Q’ maintains a compact growth habit, reaching a mature height of about 24 inches (60 cm) and spreading similarly, creating a full, low bush. Its lush, bottle-green foliage provides a rich backdrop for the vivid flowers throughout the growing season. This peony is well-suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 8.
Planting Susie Q Peony
Successful establishment of the ‘Susie Q’ Peony begins with careful site selection. Prioritize locations that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While full sun is preferred, some afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter climates to preserve the blooms. Well-draining soil is crucial for peonies, as they do not tolerate soggy conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. The optimal time for planting bare-root peonies is in the fall, ideally at least six weeks before the ground freezes. When positioning the plant, ensure the “eyes,” or growth buds, are no more than 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) below the soil surface. Space individual plants approximately 24 to 36 inches apart for mature growth and adequate air circulation.
Ongoing Care for Susie Q Peony
After planting, consistent watering is important, particularly during dry periods and throughout the first year. Peonies generally require about an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. Providing this moisture ensures robust growth and flowering.
Fertilization can support vigorous blooming; a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring, though avoiding high-nitrogen formulas is advisable as they promote foliage over flowers. ‘Susie Q’ Peonies often benefit from structural support for their large, heavy blooms, preventing stems from bending or breaking, especially during rain. Deadheading spent flowers after blooming helps the plant conserve energy. In the fall, once the foliage has yellowed or after the first hard frost, cut the stems back to ground level and remove the debris to help prevent disease spread.
Addressing Common Susie Q Peony Challenges
A common challenge with peonies is a lack of blooms. Planting the peony eyes too deeply is a primary culprit, as it inhibits flower production. Insufficient sunlight, less than six hours of direct sun per day, can also lead to sparse flowering. Newly planted peonies may take two to three years to reach their full blooming potential.
Peonies require a cold winter dormant period to set their flower buds. They may struggle in regions with consistently warm winters. Ants are commonly seen on peony buds, but they are generally harmless, attracted to the sweet nectar secreted by the buds. Botrytis blight, a fungal disease, can occur in humid conditions; ensuring good air circulation and promptly removing any diseased plant material can help manage its spread.