Two Year Old Tree Peony With Many New Shoots

Question

I have two peony trees – one is tree and other is Itoh. I planted them from bare root last year and they have 15 – 20 shoots showing at about 1″ from ground level. Should I leave them alone to build the plant or should I remove 1/3 of shoots to give root more strength. We have had a mild weather winter season in Southern Oregon and the ground did not freeze. My plan is to fertilize this week with bone meal around the drip line. I have several other older tree peonies and they are doing well. One in area with new plants is 25 years old and heavy bloomer 5 feet wide and 4 feet tall. Any books you would recommend on Itoha and Tree Peonies. My Sara Bernhardt herbaceous peonies are about the same size as my old tree peony and are very happy. Thank you for your help.

Answer 1

Doesn't your new tree peony have woody stems that came bare root? I wouldn't cut out any of the shoots coming up. Peonies are notorious for not wanting to be disturbed.

We don't make recommendations so I don't have a book title for you.

Here is more on tree peony care:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/peony/how-to-grow-a-tree-peony.htm