With big, subtly fragrant blooms and a range of striking colors, its no secret why peonies are a beloved staple in gardens across America. Whether you enjoy the vibrancy of a deep-fuchsia peony or the romantic charm of a coral variety, these big perennials have something to offer in your outdoor space. Plus, did you know that with the proper care, peony plants can bloom for 100 years or more?
The first step in adding this garden staple to your space is choosing the right variety. Then, youll need to be sure to plant in the appropriate conditions and practice regular care to acclimate your peonies properly. Our peony care guide is here to help you do just that. Lets dive in.
(Above) Julia Rose Itoh Peony have sturdy stems that support stunning, sizable double flowers that rise above lush, foliage, eliminating the need for staking. The pleasantly fragrant blooms have soft apricot petals accented by reddish-purple tips and vibrant yellow centers. The stunning cut flowers make a delightful addition to any spring bouquet. Part to full sun. Up to 3 tall and wide. Zones 4-9.
Peonies are beloved for their easy-going nature and beautiful, large blossoms that burst into color in late spring and early summer. They belong to the Paeonia genus, which has species that are native to Asia, Europe, and Western North America. Peonies come in tons of colors to match different spaces, and some have a subtle (but delightful) fragrance.
Sarah Bernhardt peonies are prized by gardeners for their lush fragrant pink blooms and timeless vintage appeal. Named after the iconic French actress, this elegant peony variety has been beloved since its introduction in 1906.
If you want to add romantic, old-fashioned flair to your garden, Sarah Bernhardt peonies are an excellent choice. Follow this complete guide for tips on planting, caring for, and propagating these heirloom beauties.
Optimal Growing Conditions for Sarah Bernhardt Peonies
Sarah Bernhardt peonies thrive when provided with:
-
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade. Morning sun is ideal, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
-
Soil Rich well-draining loam with a pH between 6.5-7.0. Amend heavy clay soil with compost.
-
Water: Consistent moisture, about 1-2 inches per week. Avoid soggy soil.
-
Temperature Cool weather is preferred Needs winter chilling period. Ideal daytime temps of 65-75°F and nighttime temps of 40-50°F
-
Humidity: Tolerant of average humidity levels.
-
Fertilizer: Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
When to Plant Sarah Bernhardt Peony Bulbs
Sarah Bernhardt peonies can be planted in either spring or fall:
-
Spring: After threat of hard frost, as early as March-April. Gives roots time to develop before summer.
-
Fall: 6-8 weeks before first frost, usually September-October. Growth will be limited until next spring. Apply winter mulch after planting.
Spring planting is best for fastest bloom time. Fall-planted bulbs may not flower until the second year. If planting in fall, choose largest bulbs available.
How to Plant Sarah Bernhardt Peony Bulbs
Follow these steps when planting Sarah Bernhardt peony bulbs:
-
Prepare the bed in full sun to partial shade with rich, well-draining soil. Improve heavy soils with compost.
-
Dig holes 2 times deeper and 3 times wider than the bulb. Space holes 24-36 inches apart.
-
Place a 2-4 inch gravel layer in the hole for drainage.
-
Set the bulb in the hole with eyes/growth buds facing up and roots downward.
-
Backfill with soil, firming it gently around the bulb.
-
Water thoroughly after planting.
-
Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
-
Stake taller varieties that may flop from bloom weight.
-
Label bulbs with plant tags if planting more than one variety.
-
Plant at proper depth per package instructions – too shallow inhibits blooming, too deep slows growth.
Caring for Sarah Bernhardt Peonies
Follow these care tips to keep your Sarah Bernhardt peonies thriving:
-
Water 1-2 inches weekly the first year to develop an extensive root system. Reduce watering after establishment.
-
Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring as growth resumes. Use a blooming formula while in flower.
-
Monitor for diseases like botrytis, leaf spot, wilt, and viruses. Avoid overhead watering and promote air circulation.
-
Stake plants to support the heavy double flower heads.
-
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming.
-
Cut back stems when they brown in fall and remove debris to prevent disease.
-
Mulch plants to protect crowns from harsh winter weather. Avoid mulching too early in fall.
-
Divide crowded clumps every 3-5 years in fall after foliage dies back.
Propagating Sarah Bernhardt Peonies
Sarah Bernhardt peonies can be propagated by:
-
Division: The easiest method. Dig up mature plants in fall and divide into sections with 3-5 eyes and plenty of roots. Replant divisions immediately.
-
Seeds: Allow spent flowers to form seed pods. Sow ripe seeds in fall. Germination may take 2+ years.
-
Root cuttings: Take 5-6 inch root cuttings in fall. Plant horizontally 1-2 inches deep in light soil.
-
Grafting: Graft a scion onto established peony rootstock in early spring. Requires expertise.
-
Air layering: Girdle a low stem and coat with moist sphagnum moss in spring. Roots should form by fall for transplanting.
Division is the simplest, most effective way to get more Sarah Bernhardt peonies for expanding your garden display.
Troubleshooting Common Sarah Bernhardt Peony Problems
Lack of flowers: Ensure adequate winter chill. Hot climates, too much shade, over-fertilization, or planting too deeply can also prevent blooming.
Wilting: Can signal verticillium wilt. Improve drainage and avoid waterlogged soil. Discard infected plants.
Leaf spots: Indicates fungal disease. Apply preventative fungicide and promptly remove diseased leaves.
Insects: Typically pest-resistant but may be vulnerable to aphids, thrips, beetles, and caterpillars. Use insecticidal soap if infestations occur.
Flopping: Stake plants to support heavy blooms and prevent storm damage.
With proper planting and care, Sarah Bernhardt peonies will thrive for decades. Their lush pink blooms and delightful scent make them a treasured heirloom variety for any garden. Follow this guide to successfully grow, propagate, and troubleshoot your own romantic Sarah Bernhardt peonies.
Pruning Sarah Bernhardt Peonies
As with other flowering shrubs, a little deadheading can be critical to long-term health and productivity. Unless you are overly concerned about seed set, deadheading a Sarah Bernhardt peony is a wise move. Remove the spent blooms as they occur to keep the plant attractive. This may also encourage the formation of new buds. It’s also a good idea to prune peony foliage after the first frost, or when the leaves begin to change color. Cut the stems back to nearly ground level.
Problems, Pests & Diseases
In heavy soil, these plants may fail to thrive. Plants with little protection from searing sun rays can also burn. However, Sarah Bernhardt peonies are deer resistant and generally unbothered by insect pests. The most common diseases you are likely to encounter are honey fungus, verticillium wilt, peony leaf blotch and peony leaf wilt. In order to prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering this peony.
Peony Growing Guide!!! How to Plant, Grow, Harvest, Divide, & Transplant Peonies
FAQ
Where is the best place to plant a Sarah Bernhardt peony?
Enjoys full sun or part shade in rich, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Peony plants grow best in full sun but will tolerate some light afternoon shade.
What month should I plant peonies?
… peonies is that potted herbaceous and intersectional peonies can go in the ground at any time of year, but are best planted in late April or May or SeptemberApr 3, 2022
How big does a Sarah Bernhardt peony get?
34-36″ tall x 24-36″ wide. Like their namesake, the legendary stage actress, ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ Peony is steeped in poise and elegance. Luxurious layers of ruffled petals make for dramatic blossoms. ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ holds its showy blooms atop sturdy stems, lending an air of sophistication to the garden.
How to plant paeonia Sarah Bernhardt?
How to care for Paeonia lactiflora Sarah Bernhardt: Bare root plants should either be potted up or planted out as soon as possible while avoiding frosty or waterlogged conditions. Plant all peonies into well-prepared soil, making sure that the highest bud on the crown is no deeper than 5cm (2in) below the soil surface.