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### 6. **Fertilize Lightly**
If your peonies looked a bit weak this year, a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) after blooming can give them a boost. Apply sparingly around the base, not directly on the crown.
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### 7. **Mulch Mindfully**
Add a light layer of mulch to conserve moisture and keep weeds down, but don’t pile it against the stems. Peony crowns need some air circulation.
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### 8. **Mark Their Location**
Once the foliage dies back in the fall, peony plants can be hard to locate. Mark their spot now so you don’t accidentally damage them while working in the garden later.
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### 9. **Divide if Needed**
If your peony hasn’t bloomed well or seems overcrowded, you might need to divide it—but **not now**. Wait until early fall, when the plant is dormant. Just take note now if division is necessary.
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### 10. **Take Notes for Next Year**
Jot down bloom times, performance, and any issues. Peonies are long-lived perennials, and having records will help you manage them more effectively season to season.
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**Final Thoughts**
Post-bloom peony care is all about patience and prep. These 10 steps might seem simple, but they make a massive difference in keeping your peonies thriving. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, giving your peonies proper attention after they bloom can turn a short flowering season into a lifetime of beauty.
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