How to prune paeonia lactiflora 'festiva maxima'

Autumn, after foliage yellows and dies back (typically October–November); deadhead immediately after flowering in late spring. Cut all stems to within 2–3 inches of soil level in autumn using clean, sharp secateurs. Remove deadheads just below the spent flower to the nearest leaf. Clear all debris from the base to reduce botrytis risk.

Once annually in autumn; deadhead as blooms fade in late spring. Herbaceous peonies like 'Festiva Maxima' die back completely each autumn, so the main pruning task is cutting stems to ground level in fall after foliage yellows. Deadhead spent blooms promptly after flowering to keep the plant tidy and prevent disease. No complex shaping is needed — this peony manages itself.

Cut all stems to within 2–3 inches of soil level in autumn using clean, sharp secateurs. Remove deadheads just below the spent flower to the nearest leaf. Clear all debris from the base to reduce botrytis risk.