Pruning guide
How to prune tree peony
More tree peony care
Pruning tree peony — FAQ
When should I prune tree peony?
Early spring before new growth emerges (remove dead wood); deadhead immediately after flowering. In early spring, cut out any stems that are clearly dead (they will be dry and snap cleanly) back to healthy wood or the base. Deadhead by cutting spent flowers off just below the bloom. Do not cut live, healthy stems — the woody framework is permanent and takes years to build.
How often does tree peony need pruning?
Light prune for dead wood once annually in spring; deadhead after flowering. Tree Peony has permanent woody stems that must NOT be cut to the ground — doing so destroys years of woody framework. Pruning is minimal: remove dead or damaged wood in early spring, and deadhead spent flowers. Very old, congested plants can have one or two of the oldest stems removed at the base to encourage renewal shoots.
How do you prune tree peony?
In early spring, cut out any stems that are clearly dead (they will be dry and snap cleanly) back to healthy wood or the base. Deadhead by cutting spent flowers off just below the bloom. Do not cut live, healthy stems — the woody framework is permanent and takes years to build.