What Happens To Tree Peony Flower Buds in Winter?

  What Happens To Tree Peony Flower Buds in Winter?

Tree peony flower buds undergo a series of important physiological processes in winter, which are crucial for the flowering of peonies in the following year. The following is a detailed analysis of the winter state of tree peony flower buds:

  1.Winter dormancy of tree peony flower buds

  Tree peonies belong to winter type woody plants, and they enter a dormant state during winter. During this period, although the flower buds of peonies are in a dormant state, they are preparing internally for the flowering of the following year. Flower buds are mainly small flower buds that germinate inside the scales. During germination, they gradually expand with the growth period and mainly grow at the top of branches, with "axillary flower buds" or "lateral flower buds". During the dormant period of peonies, their physiological activities slow down, but the cells inside the flower buds are still engaged in weak metabolic activity, accumulating nutrients for the growth and flowering of the following year.

  2.The vernalization effect of tree peony flower buds

  The vernalization process is an important process experienced by tree peony flower buds in winter. This process refers to the period of low temperature environment that plants need to undergo before flower bud germination in order to promote the differentiation and development of flower buds. For peonies, their flower buds need to undergo 50 to 60 days of vernalization in an environment below 5 degrees Celsius in winter, or 2 months below 2 degrees Celsius, or 1 month below 0 degrees Celsius. This vernalization process helps peonies transition from a dormant state of nutrient accumulation to a reproductive and growth state of flower bud differentiation. If the low temperature in winter is not enough, or the low temperature time is not long enough, peonies will not be able to complete vernalization, which will affect the development of flower buds and the flowering of the following year.

  3.Winter management of tree peony flower buds

  Insulation and Cold Prevention: 

  Although tree peonies have a certain degree of cold resistance, certain insulation and cold prevention measures still need to be taken under extreme low temperature conditions. By thickening the soil, pruning excess branches, and maintaining good photosynthesis, the scales and roots of peonies can be protected from frost damage.

  Reasonable water and fertilizer: 

  Tree peonies are in a dormant state in winter, with lower demands for water and nutrients. But if placed in an indoor environment with high temperature, it still needs to be watered and fertilized appropriately. Watering should be done in the morning or evening to avoid spraying during the day and blocking the stomata of the leaves. Fertilization should choose fertilizers suitable for the growth of peonies and follow the principle of "thin fertilization and frequent application".

  Disease prevention: 

  Winter is a critical period for preventing tree peony diseases. The disease resistance of peonies can be improved by pruning dead branches and decaying branches, increasing the light exposure area of leaves, and using pesticides such as carbendazim for prevention.

  In summary, tree peony flower buds undergo important processes such as dormancy and vernalization in winter, which are crucial for the flowering of peonies in the following year. Therefore, in winter management, appropriate measures should be taken to protect the flower buds and roots of peonies, ensuring their smooth completion of vernalization and safe overwintering.