Peonies' huge blossoms and sweet scent bring memories of Grandma's garden. In fact, they might be the same plants. They are still flowering long after she passed, and may still be in bloom after you're gone.
Peonies were first cultivated 2,500 years ago in China, Siberia, and Japan. Descendants of the first plants can be found growing in the Midwest today.
In Japan, peonies are called the "flower of prosperity" because of their ability to thrive for decades in areas where the temperature regularly dips below zero in winter.
Master gardeners say the plants require stakes or ring supports to avoid damage from wind and rain. Planting them together in a sunny area is best because they are so beautiful in groups.
To encourage large blooms, remove the smaller buds on each stem while they are tiny, leaving only the largest. When cutting, leave at least two leaves on each stem.
The older they get, the more peonies resent being moved, so choose a permanent location when planting. Some plants produce blooms for as long as 20 years before they need to be divided.