When peonies begin to fade, most don’t know what to do. Here are the 10 most critical tasks & why

Peonies are among the most beloved garden flowers — lush, fragrant, and bursting with romantic blooms each spring. But when their stunning blossoms begin to fade, many gardeners are left wondering: what now?

Don’t let the end of peony season catch you off guard! What you do after the blooms fade is just as important as how you care for them in spring. These steps will help ensure your peonies come back healthier, fuller, and more vibrant year after year.

Here are the 10 most critical post-bloom tasks, and exactly why each one matters:

1. Deadhead Spent Blooms

Why: Removing faded flowers prevents seed development, which drains energy from the plant.
How: Cut the bloom just above the first set of healthy leaves. Be careful not to cut too low — peonies need their foliage to store energy.

2. Inspect for Pests or Disease

Why: After blooming, peonies can be vulnerable to fungal issues like …
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