Peonies in the garden have become essential over the years! Their red, pink, white, and yellow petals make a stunning display in the spring.
Since peonies are perennials, they can grow for many years in the yard! I planted them eight years ago, and let me tell you, I haven’t faced any problems since then. How is that even possible?
Well, when I first planned to grow them, I knew that I had to find some tips to keep my peonies thriving and safe from powdery mildew (a common disease that can ruin their blooming).
Then I discovered that one kitchen ingredient I often use is perfect for treating this disease – baking soda! As you probably have some in your kitchen too, it’s time to try it on your peonies as well.
If You Want To Get Rid Of Powdery Mildew, Try This Secret Recipe
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that, besides affecting crops, can also damage your peonies. The earlier you spot signs such as white patches and drooping leaves, the better your chances of saving your flowers.
Not only will you prevent the disease from ruining your peonies, but you’ll also stop the powdery mildew from spreading all over your garden.
Luckily, baking soda turned out to be the most effective thing for treating this disease! Now I’m going to explain to you why and how baking soda works. Fungal spores, like powdery mildew, need a low pH to grow, so anything lower than seven is considered acidic.
That’s why you should test the soil where peonies grow. If it shows a lower number, you’ll need to react immediately! Since baking soda is alkaline, it can raise the pH, making the conditions for the spread of this disease impossible.
Now it’s time to learn how to make this amazing mixture for your peonies. You’ll need a few more ingredients besides baking soda, such as liquid dish soap and horticultural oil.
Mix one tablespoon of these ingredients with one gallon of water, and voila! You’ve got the perfect combination that will make powdery mildew disappear in no time. Keep spraying your peonies for ten to fourteen days, but not more than that!
Another Great Organic Repellent You’ll Need To Use For Healthy Peony Growth
Even though peonies are quite resistant to pests, there are a few that you should keep your eyes on. Japanese beetles, aphids, and thrips love to chew leaves and flowers, causing big trouble.
Unfortunately, they can leave behind a visible trail and prevent your peonies from blooming. That’s why I have some natural repellents that can help you get rid of them without using strong chemicals.
You can DIY an essential oil spray that is proven to drive these pests away. Spray your peonies with a mixture of peppermint, rosemary, thyme, and clove when you notice them on the leaves. Just a few sprays will make them go away for good! You can also try using neem oil.
Isn’t it great knowing that you’ll be able to defeat powdery mildew and every pest that tries to ruin your peonies? All thanks to amazing ingredients you’ll already have at home! You’ll be only a few sprays away from having the healthiest peonies you’ve ever grown.
That’s how I’ve managed to grow them for so long and have the most beautiful landscape every season. You just need to trust the process, and you’ll be amazed by the results in the end!
Good luck!