PEONY SEASON

MAY 21, 2022

Photo Credit: Stephanie Veltri Design

It's officially peony season, and I cannot get enough of our gorgeous Sarah Bernhardt breed in our yard. They were named after the famous French singer and stage actress. I planted them at the entry of our backyard as well as one up front facing the sun. I missed them terribly when we lived in Louisiana, and it's nice to be able to enjoy them again (although the season is short). They boast the most gorgeous double blooms, and I have an abundance to work with and arrange on hand. Peony flower blooms are categorized into six different types. There are Single Blooms, Japanese, Anemone, Semi-Double, Bombe, and Full Double. Peonies sadly die back in late Autumn, but their yearly presence brings so much joy!

Photo Credit: Stephanie Veltri Design

My peonies making an appearance in our kitchen. I feel so fortunate to have them growing right in my garden!

Photo Credit: Stephanie Veltri Design

When I clip my peonies, I trim them so that I am careful not to remove any buds. In doing so, this will let the bloom have its full chance to grow to capacity before I remove it for an arrangement!

Photo Credit: Stephanie Veltri Design

Sometimes a lighter bloom will emerge of a different color. It is always exciting to see what will arrive!

Photo Credit: Stephanie Veltri Design

Having taken courses in landscape design in college and always being an avid gardener helped when planning our outdoor space with our landscape designer. I knew the look I wanted, and everything came out smoothly. I was able to add in plants afterward, as we started with small shrubs. I always recommend working with one who is competent in artistic renderings and has a degree in landscape design.

Photo Credit: Stephanie Veltri Design

Being aware of the topography and soil is additionally important when choosing perennials and shrubs. Certain breeds do better in specific soils than others. I like to know what I am working with before I plant anything by hand to know if the soil is clay based or rocky. Happy spring and garden adventures!

-Stephanie