Pollination Information for Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony (Paeonia x 'Scarlet Heaven')

The Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony is a hybrid variety of peony that was created by crossing the herbaceous and woody peony species. Like all other peonies, this variety is a prolific bloomer that produces large, showy flowers that come in shades of bright red and deep scarlet.

In terms of pollination, the Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony is considered a self-sterile plant, which means that it requires cross-pollination to produce viable seeds. The flowers of this plant are attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which help to transfer pollen from one flower to another. For best results, it is recommended to plant multiple Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peonies in close proximity to each other, as this increases the likelihood of cross-pollination occurring. It is also important to plant these peonies in a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.

If you want to hand-pollinate Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony flowers to ensure successful pollination, you can do so by using a small paintbrush or cotton swab to transfer pollen from one flower to another. It is important to wait until the flowers have fully opened and the anthers are visibly covered in pollen before attempting to pollinate them.

Overall, the Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony is a beautiful and rewarding plant to grow, with a unique pollination process that requires a little bit of effort - but is well worth it in the end!

Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony (Paeonia x 'Scarlet Heaven') - FAQ

What is Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony?

Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony (Paeonia x 'Scarlet Heaven') is a herbaceous perennial flower, and a hybrid of tree and herbaceous peonies, with stunning scarlet red flowers that can grow up to 8 inches in diameter. It blooms in late spring to early summer and has an excellent fragrance. The plant has dark green foliage and a bushy growth habit. It is a highly sought-after ornamental plant for gardeners and landscapers.

What are the growing requirements for Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony?

Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony prefers full sun to partial shade, and well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It is best to plant the peony in a location that is sheltered from strong winds. The soil pH should be between 6.5 to 7.0. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture. Fertilize the plant in early spring before new growth appears using a balanced fertilizer.

Can Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony tolerate cold temperatures?

Yes, Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony is cold hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit. It is an excellent choice for gardeners living in colder regions.

How do I plant Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony?

Plant Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony in a hole that is twice as wide as the plant's root ball. Mix compost or other organic matter into the soil and backfill the hole. The plant should be planted at the same depth it was growing in its container. Water the plant thoroughly after planting, and mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture.

How do I care for Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony?

Water Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony regularly during the growing season and mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture. Deadhead the spent blooms to encourage the plant to produce more flowers. In the fall, cut down the plant to ground level and dispose of any diseased foliage or debris. Fertilize the plant in early spring before new growth appears.

How do I propagate Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony?

Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony can be propagated through division. In the fall, lift the plant and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have at least 3 to 5 buds. Replant the divisions immediately and water them thoroughly. The new plants may take a year or two to bloom.

Are there any pests or diseases that I should be aware of?

Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony is generally pest and disease resistant but can be susceptible to Botrytis blight, a fungal disease that causes gray mold on the flower buds and leaves. To prevent this, water the plant from below and avoid getting the leaves wet. Remove any diseased foliage or debris from around the plant.

Planting & Care for Scarlet Heaven Itoh Peony

Planting:

• Choose a well-draining area with full sun to partial shade.
• Prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic material to improve nutrient content and drainage.
• Plant the peony root with the eyes facing up and 2 inches below the soil surface.
• Space each plant 2-3 feet apart to allow for growth.
• Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist but not waterlogged until established.

Care:

• Water regularly, about 1 inch of water per week, especially during hot, dry spells.
• Add a slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears and again in early summer after blooming.
• Deadhead spent blooms and remove any damaged or diseased foliage to promote new growth and reduce risk of disease.
• Provide support for heavy blooms by staking or placing a peony ring around the plant.
• Cut back stems to ground level in fall after foliage has died back.
• Cover with mulch in late fall to protect roots during winter.