Ito-peonies - what kind of hybrid species is this, planting, propagation and care of hybrids

Ito-peonies, or hybrid peonies (Itoh-hybrid), are a complex species that is obtained by crossing varieties belonging to different climatic zones: from Transbaikal to Tibetan. This origin is determined by their properties:

• frost resistance;
• unique coloring;
• powerful growth;
• abundant flowering;
• developed root system;
• vegetative propagation method (dividing the bush);
• well developed kidneys.

But they do not tolerate heat well and cannot provide themselves with the required amount of moisture. Therefore, you should always monitor the soil moisture, ensuring timely watering.

Varieties of tree peony

The history of tree peony cultivation began one and a half thousand years ago in China.
In the city of Yancheng, ten bushes planted in the Song era (960–1279) still grow and bloom; in one of the Shanxi monasteries, eight peonies from the Ming era (1368–1614) remain. The largest of them reaches a height of 2.4 m, some branches are up to 10 cm in diameter, and there are about 200 flowers on the bush at the same time!

The largest collections of tree peonies are located in Luoyang, the city of peonies. A thousand years ago, “Records on the flowers of tree peonies”, which have survived to this day, were created there, where agricultural technology and methods for breeding new varieties were described in detail. Luoyang peonies are considered the best in China.

Now about 500 varieties of tree peonies are registered all over the world, most of them are Chinese. They are divided into three groups:

• Chinese-European - with double flowers,
• Japanese - with non-double and semi-double;
• Hybrids of yellow peony and Delaway peony.

Varieties of the European type have large, heavy flowers (which causes them to droop greatly), of various shades - from pale pink to fuchsia. The flowers of Japanese varieties are smaller, lighter, and rise above the leaves on strong peduncles. The third group, the most popular at present, are hybrids of yellow peony and Delaway peony.

They attract attention with the yellow color of the flower. If among herbaceous peonies there are very few varieties with this color, then among tree-like peonies there are many more of them

Ito hybrids also appeared on sale, named after the Japanese breeder Toichi Ito, who was the first to conduct a sensational crossing of a tree peony and a herbaceous one, which before him was considered completely unrealistic. These hybrids have leaves like tree-like ones, and the stems die off in the winter, like herbaceous forms.

The first tree peonies were brought to Russia from the Baltic states in 1858, to the St. Petersburg Botanical Garden. For a long time after this, they were considered an unpromising crop and grew only in greenhouses. This is due to the fact that most of the plants came from Europe and were not frost-resistant.

The first experiments in growing tree peonies in open ground date back to the thirties of the last century. In the fifties, their selection and acclimatization began at the Botanical Garden of Moscow State University.

From the editor

Over several decades of work at the Botanical Garden of Moscow State University, the author of this article and the curator of the collection of tree peonies, Marianna Uspenskaya, created more than 20 varieties included in the Catalog of Varieties Approved for Use in Production in the Russian Federation. They are most suitable for growing in our climate zone. Among them: 'August', 'Anastasia Sosnovets', 'Vadim Tikhomirov', 'Vladimir Novikov', 'Vorobievsky', 'Hoffmann', 'Marianna', 'Maria', 'Moscow University', 'Peter the Great', 'Sergei Uspensky', 'Smolin', 'Stefan'.

Peonies after flowering

Ito hybrids look very impressive even after flowering, thanks to their foliage, which begins to die off only with the onset of sufficiently severe cold weather. At this time, you should start replanting, pruning, and preparing for winter.

Transfer

The root system of Ito peonies is extensive and grows over the years. It is better to replant 4-5 year old plants that have matured and replant them once every next 3-4 years. Replanting is carried out in September, when the plant has bloomed. The upper part of the peony is cut off to the root, and the root itself is cut to a length of 10-15 cm at an angle of 45º and divided into parts. After this, you need to follow the usual landing steps.

Important! Be careful when digging up roots. The bush must be loosened before being pulled out.

Trimming

There is no need to rush to cut off healthy foliage, since the nutrients will reach the roots in the fall. Peduncles, dried and withered leaves are cut off in early September.

At the end of November, the remaining leaves are cut at soil level, while the pruning shears are held parallel to the ground. After pruning, the soil is mulched and sprinkled with ash.

Preparing for winter

Ito peonies, despite their frost resistance, still require special winter shelter. Otherwise, they will be subject to freezing of the buds and rhizomes. To insulate the plant, it is necessary to mulch the soil to a height of at least 10 cm. You can cover the peony with rotted manure, grass and leaves. In persistent cold weather, special shelters can be used.

Varieties most in demand among gardeners

Sedum - planting and care, reproduction

The choice of Ito varieties is the widest. Basically, they were all bred in the United States.

Hillary

Hillary peony has a semi-double form, red and yellow color. Depending on weather conditions, the shade may change. The height of the bush reaches 65 cm.

Border Charm

It has a semi-marble shape. There is a red spot in the middle of the flower. The Border Charm peony itself is yellow with lighter edges.

Scrumdidleumptious

The Scramdidliaps peony flower is characterized by a bright red color. The foliage is dark green. The bush reaches up to 70 cm in height.

Lollipop

The shape can be terry or semi-double. The diameter of the yellow flower with red stripes reaches 17 cm. Lollipop is famous for its abundant flowering.

Yellow Crown

The Yellow Crown variety is distinguished by a variety of flower shapes. Its color is necessarily bright yellow. There is a light red spot in the center.

Jubilee

Large buds up to 25 cm in diameter turn into flowers with delicate white petals. Jubilee is characterized by a large height - up to 100 cm, so this species is tied up.

Garden Treasure

The height is up to 1 meter. Double-shaped flowers can grow up to 20 cm in diameter. On an adult bush, up to 50 buds open simultaneously.

Garden Treasure is characterized not only by its beautiful appearance, but also by its pronounced aroma

Joanna Marlene

It has unusually beautiful buds. Gradually opening, the colors change from dark peach to golden. The flower shape is semi-double.

Other

In addition to the species described, there are others. For example, Ito Bartzella is a peony with bright yellow petals and a subtle lemon aroma; Julia Rose is famous for the fact that from the beginning of flowering to the end, the petals change color three times; The Canary Diamond has light yellow, soft beige flowers that can take on a beautiful diamond sheen. Paeonia Callie's Memory has 2-3 buds on the stem that slowly open.

Peony Kellis Memory

Peony Border Charm

The Ito hybrid variety Border Charm was created by American breeder Don Holinsworth in 1984. The translation of the name of the variety is quite romantic: “Border of Charm”. Decorative perennial 50-60 cm tall, spreading. Buds 16 cm in size bloom on strong stems. The flower is semi-double yellow in color with a scarlet area at the base. The leaves are decorative, rugged, dark green, with a blue tint. ITO peony looks great among the lawn, in a bouquet or flower arrangement. The flowering period is late, the smell is weak.

Varietal characteristics are fully revealed 2-3 years after planting. Shows resistance to frost and disease.

Borden Charm

This is interesting: Preparing peonies for winter, sheltering and feeding plants in the fall, features of caring for peonies in the regions - we describe in detail

Rules of care

After planting, it may happen that in the first year the bush will look lethargic. However, you should not worry about this, since its recovery takes a long time. In addition, peonies do not bloom in the first year, but only in the second, and sometimes in the third year. However, there are varieties that continue to bloom even after transplantation.

In addition, we must remember that this plant does not like transplantation at all. Therefore, you should not do this unless absolutely necessary.

These plants do not require special care. Since most of them are resistant to frost, there is no need to cover them for the winter period. This should be done only in cases where young seedlings have been planted. Then they can be covered with moss or fallen leaves.

In addition, in the spring they need regular watering. It is also necessary to carry out weeding and timely fertilizing. In this case, it is necessary to fertilize in the first years using a foliar method. It will be enough to do this 3 times per season. The first time in the spring, the second - before flowering begins, and the third - at the end of August. In autumn, all stems must be cut off.

Aftercare

Although the Hillary peony is unpretentious, it is still worth following certain rules for caring for it, especially at first.

Caring for this variety is as follows:

• watering - it is important to moisten regularly, without allowing water to accumulate.
  If, with a lack of moisture, the flower becomes less lush, then its excess can lead to rotting of the roots and subsequent death of the plant; Advice! During periods of heavy rain, when it is impossible to control humidity, it is recommended to add special agents to the soil that prevent rotting (for example, Alirin).
• fertilizing - in the spring it is useful to apply organic fertilizers, before flowering of the Hillary peony it is good to use nitrogen fertilizers, and closer to autumn - potassium-phosphorus mixtures;
• regular loosening - helps saturate the soil with oxygen and also helps in the fight against weeds;
• mulching – helps protect roots that are close to the surface, and also retains moisture and nutrients.

  
  It is better to replant peonies in the fall rather than in the spring.

The first year after transplantation, the Hillary peony may look sluggish, but with proper care the plant quickly recovers.

Preparing for winter

In the autumn, plants need fertilizing that will help them survive the winter and contribute to the formation of buds for the next season. Use potassium-phosphorus mixture in dry or liquid form. When applying fertilizers, pour 25-30 g of the mixture under each bush after watering. If you take the solution, you need to make sure that it does not get on the leaves (this can lead to burns).

In late autumn, when severe frosts begin, ITO peonies are cut off, leaving stumps 2-3 cm high. The cut areas can be sprinkled with ash.

In the fall, peonies are pruned to prevent the stems from rotting.

The “Hillary” variety has good frost resistance, so it does not need shelter during the cold season. The only exceptions are planted specimens - it is recommended to cover them for the winter with spruce branches or pine needles.

Varieties

A large number of varieties of Ito-peonies have been bred with completely different names, for example, “Scramdidlyapshes” or “Fest Arrival”. Among them it is necessary to note the best. Most of them tolerate frost well, so they are perfect for the Moscow region.

"Hillary"

This variety is distinguished by large double flowers, which reach up to 18 centimeters in circumference. At the beginning of flowering, their hue is bright pink, and after that it becomes lighter every day and acquires a soft pink color, which from a distance appears yellow. In the very center you can see a cherry “eye”. Flowers most often bloom alone and during this time they can change their color several times.

"Lollipop"

This hybrid peony gets its name due to its close resemblance to this colorful candy cane. It is distinguished by pale yellow flowers. Their petals have small specks of purple and red colors over their entire surface. The bush is quite large, can grow up to 85 centimeters in height. In addition, it can simultaneously produce several lateral flowers at once.

"Scarlet Haven"

This is a rather rare and, one might even say, unique variety of peonies, which consists of several rows of bright red petals, characterized by their velvety quality. In the very center of the flower there is a ring of yellow stamens, too short. In circumference they reach up to 14 centimeters. The Ito peony bush is quite lush and grows up to 75 centimeters in height. Its foliage is too thick and completely covers all the stems. Only the flowers remain visible.

"Barzella"

This is the earliest peony; its flowering begins in April and lasts for a whole month. The flowers of this beautiful plant are lush with a rather bright yellow color, as well as small touches of red at the very base. Their diameter reaches 24 centimeters, and they bloom singly. In addition, they exude a very tasty aroma and last for a long time after cutting. The bush grows up to 85 centimeters in height, but its width is much greater.

"Kellis Memory"

Gardeners expect these pale yellow peonies to bloom as early as May. It can last almost a whole month. The edges of their petals are soft pink, and at the very base they are bright cherry. When it blooms completely, it immediately becomes flat. Its circumference reaches 20 centimeters. The bush grows up to one meter in height. Its decorative leaves can delight everyone until frost, so they are often used to decorate personal plots.

"Pastel Splendor"

Very often this variety is also called pastel splendor. And this is because its flowers have an unusual color - a mixture of lavender, pink, soft yellow, and also cream flowers. In addition, in the very center of the flower the peony has a small purple spot.

"Yellow Crown"

These lush peonies are distinguished by a very bright yellow color, but their middle is orange, almost red. Their circumference is not that large, only up to 12 centimeters. The height of the bush is up to one meter; moreover, its stems are quite dense and practically do not fall to the ground when flowering. Flowering begins in early May and lasts for three weeks.

"Moning Lilac"

The peony has a semi-double form with beautiful lilac flowers that have cherry and white stripes. Its leaves are soft green in color. In addition, this variety is distinguished by its rather early flowering period.

"Oriental Gold"

There is debate among many botanists about this plant. Scientists are trying to understand which group they belong to. They are semi-double flowers with a straw color. They are very small in diameter, up to 10 centimeters. The bush grows up to 85 centimeters in height. Flowering begins quite early, in mid-April.

"Border Charm"

This name is translated as “border of charm.” After all, it is not a very tall bush, up to half a meter in height, while its width is also small. The buds in circumference reach 15 centimeters. Their color is yellow with a red border. Flowering occurs late.

"Copper Kettle"

This double peony, due to the fact that it consists of a mixture of various shades of yellow, red and orange, appears copper from afar. It exudes a very weak and delicate aroma. Flowering begins only after 3 years. This variety is resistant to frost; it can withstand down to –42 degrees.

"Magical Mystery Tour"

This variety of peonies is distinguished by orange-peach flowers, which turn soft pink during flowering. Flowering lasts quite a long time, and the bush can produce up to 45 buds per season.

Growing a flower

Yellow peonies - the best varieties and care for them

Ito peonies are more difficult to propagate than their herbaceous counterparts. Their roots are quite hard, long, horizontally located, and seeds are rarely obtained.

Planting by root cuttings

This is the most common method of planting Ito peony. A cutting is a small part of a plant root that has a root and a sprout eye. They are harvested from late July to mid-September.

First, the plant must be cleared of old roots and soil. Then the rhizome is divided into parts 5 cm long, which are soaked in a solution of potassium permanganate for 2 hours for disinfection. After drying, the roots are sprinkled with charcoal and left for 10 hours to form a crust on the cuts.

Next, you can plant the cuttings in the soil. The depth of the holes is about 5 cm, the distance between them is 20 cm. With proper care, the seedlings grow in two years.

Preparing a bed for planting peonies

Planting with seeds (for selection)

For germination, it is necessary to use immature plant seeds (hard, brown). The seeds are heated with sand to 30 °C until the bud appears. Landing takes place in the first half of September. The first shoots appear after 3 months.

Note! Peony seeds are characterized by low germination, so this method is used extremely rarely.

Boarding time

The favorable time for planting herbaceous perennials begins at the end of August and lasts throughout September. The soil should not be frozen so that peonies can take root before frost.

Selecting a location

For peonies, choose a place where there are no trees or shrubs nearby. You should not plant a flower in an area with a high probability of flooding with melt and rain water.

The absence of shadow is an important point. Peonies are sun-loving plants; their growth in the shade slows down and the plant begins to hurt.

Preparing the soil and flower for planting

The bed for Ito-peonies should be prepared in advance for better compaction and settling of the soil. Its size is from 80 to 100 cm, since hybrids grow quickly, and the depth of the holes is 60 cm.

Hybrids grow on neutral and slightly alkaline soils. The soil mixture should fill the hole 2/3. Humus and dolomite flour should be added to it.

Step by step landing procedure:

1. You should prepare the hole and seedling in advance.
2. At the bottom of the hole you need to lay a layer of drainage and 2/3 fertilized soil.
3. The soil is moistened immediately before planting.
4. The seedling should be placed at a slight angle so that all the buds are at the same level.
5. The seedling is sprinkled with soil so that the buds rise 3-5 cm above the soil layer.

Peony planting

How to grow tree peonies and how to care for them

When growing peonies, you must follow the following rules. These flowers require abundant watering in the spring and just before flowering if the soil is poorly moist. Otherwise, moderate watering is necessary. During the summer, its intensity should be reduced, and in August it should be stopped completely, so that the wood has the opportunity to “prepare” for wintering.

When organizing proper care for your tree peony, you should remember that it is not recommended to water it with very cold water. It should be kept in a container where it can pre-warm up in the sun. You need to pour the liquid in portions, so it can reach the root system and not spread on the surface of the earth.

Another important aspect of growing a plant is timely and proper feeding. In order for it to give abundant color, fertilizers should be added once every 12 days: starting from April and until the color falls. Both when planting a tree peony and for its further care, ash, mineral additives with predominant potassium and phosphorus components, and bone meal are widely used as fertilizers. This will also prevent the development of diseases in the plant.

Every plant grower who cares about the condition of his garden is interested in how to care for the tree peony, preparing it for winter. This is how things work with the wintering of tree peonies. Young plants that are completely covered by snow are not afraid of anything. In principle, when there is a good snowy winter with moderate temperatures, tree peonies do not suffer. But in severe frosts, parts of the plant that are above the level of snow cover may freeze. Therefore, in October, it is recommended to mulch the soil with a bucket of peat or the same amount of humus per bush, cut off the leaves of the plant by two-thirds of the length and cover the bushes with special material, leaving holes for air to enter. A shelter for large bushes is constructed as follows: a hut is made from sticks, which is wrapped in lutrasil or covered with spruce branches.

In addition, tree peony bushes sometimes break under the weight of snow. Therefore, it is better to tie large specimens. The photo clearly demonstrates how to properly care for and tie up a tree peony:

If at the end of winter there are frozen buds on the bushes, then you should not remove them immediately. If at the beginning of June they cannot recover, then it is worth pruning the shoots that have frozen to the first active bud. As evidenced by the photo below, tree peonies, planted and cared for correctly, produce abundant color with lush buds - appreciate their splendor and unsurpassed quality.

Necessary crop care

Planting and growing Ito hybrids is a process associated with constant control over the condition of the plant. Violations of the rules of care can lead to death or the development of diseases.

Watering and fertilizing

Watering is an important part of care. In the spring, plants are shed with a manganese solution to disinfect the soil. Then set a watering schedule. During the period of active growth and flower formation, bushes need a constant supply of moisture. Each bush is watered weekly in a specially dug furrow a few centimeters from the main stem. For each adult bush you will need 1-2 buckets of warm water. The soil around the plant must be kept moist, this is due to the structural features of the root system.

After flowering begins on the bush, watering is reduced. After flowering, a new stage begins when the soil must be constantly moistened. The bud formation of the next season depends on compliance with this rule.

Feeding is divided into several stages:

1. Spring. Spilling manganese solution.
2. Summer. Before flowering, superphosphate and potassium sulfate are added.
3. Monthly. Application of mineral foliar mixtures.
4. Pre-winter. Feeding using mineral compounds.

Mulching and loosening the soil

Peonies do not tolerate weeds growing near the stem. The root system of peonies, which is located at a distance from the main stem, needs a lot of free space; they cannot share it with other plants. Loosening the soil solves the problem of weed growth, while at the same time saturating the soil with oxygen, making it looser and lighter.

Mulching peonies solves several problems:

• protects against weeds;
• retains moisture;
• keeps warm;
• Helps protect against diseases and pest attacks.

Attention! For mulching, use pine bark, needles or freshly cut grass. If the grass begins to actively rot, then the layer of mulch must be replaced.

Treatment against pests and diseases

Tight, unopened buds often attract various pests. Aphids, bronzes, thrips - this is an incomplete list of peony lovers. They are destroyed using common insecticides or using proven folk remedies.

Peony bushes are especially loved by ants. The sweet syrup that the unopened bud secretes attracts ants, and they settle on the entire surface of the flower. One of the control options is to pour boiling water over the anthill, which is located near the bush.

Preventive measures that are carried out in spring and autumn protect against diseases.

Transfer

The best time to plant or replant a peony bush is the second half of August or the first half of September. At this time, the plants are going through a dormant period, so all procedures will be painless

The dates can be shifted at your discretion, but it is important to comply with the main requirement - the cuttings must take root before frost sets in.

Trimming

Pruning on the bush is carried out only when buds have successfully set after flowering. If you prune very early, the bush will not be able to form buds the next season. Ito hybrids are usually pruned only in the third year after the first flowering. The bush is cut to 15-20 centimeters, then mulched and covered for the winter. As for the removal of faded buds, it must be timely. Removing faded flowers will encourage further flowering.

Preparing for winter

The main technique for preparing Ito-peony bushes for winter is mulching. The soil is covered in such a way that the roots of the bush, located almost horizontally, are covered with a layer of mulch 10 centimeters thick. For mulch, you should use a soil mixture that will not change the acidity level.

In winter, despite the frost resistance of Ito varieties, it is necessary to additionally cover the bushes with non-woven material or special materials for the garden. This condition especially applies to young peony bushes that are not pruned.

Possible problems in growing

The culture is not afraid of most diseases and insect pests. The main problems arise when the rules for caring for vines are violated.

Pests

Aphids are the main enemy of the plant. Insects capture shoots in entire colonies; they give preference to young shoots, from which they suck out the juice. Preventive spraying of above-ground parts is carried out with onion, garlic, citrus and herbal infusions with a characteristic unpleasant odor.

Important! To get rid of aphids, you need to buy chemicals - Aktar, Inta-Vir, Commander, Iskra-Bio

Aphids on leaves

Diseases

Root rot poses a serious threat to vines. The disease is formed due to excessive moisture of the soil. The main symptoms include:

• stems soft and brownish at the base;
• spots on foliage;
• presence of mold on the ground.

Therapy consists of sharply reducing the frequency of watering and treating plants with a solution of potassium permanganate. The use of fungicidal drugs is allowed: Maxim, Previkur, Bayleton, Alirin-B.

Signs of improper care

The main symptom is lack of flowering. The cause of the anomaly is associated with drafts, strong winds and frosts. Yellowing and curling of leaves occurs with insufficient or excessive watering. It is impossible to make a vine bloom without proper care.

Campsis is unpretentious; even a beginner in floriculture can grow it. To obtain healthy thickets, you need not to overwater the vine, fertilize it twice a year and do not forget about pruning. The plant is not poisonous and is not dangerous for pets and children. Moreover, it blooms very effectively to the envy of all its neighbors.

Pests and diseases

Peonies are very resistant to various diseases and pests, but there are still some that pose a danger to flowers.

Main diseases of peonies:

• rust - orange or red-brown voluminous spots consisting of spores appear on the leaves. When such formations appear, diseased leaves should be torn off and burned, otherwise the spores will be carried by the wind and infect other plants. The peony itself needs to be treated with 1% Bordeaux mixture;

• gray rot is a dangerous infection that affects all parts of the Hillary peony. External manifestation is a gray coating and brown spots on the leaves and stems. The disease spreads very quickly and leads to the death of the bush. When the first symptoms appear, the infected parts must be removed and burned, and the peony treated with a fungicide;

• Leaf mosaic is a virus that manifests itself by the appearance of light green spots or stripes on leaf blades. The disease cannot be treated, so peony with signs of infection must be destroyed;
• verticillium wilt - most often appears during the flowering period. At the same time, the peony looks healthy outwardly, but begins to fade. The infection penetrates inside the plant. It can be detected by darkened vessels on the cut of the stem. It is impossible to cure the disease, so the affected bush is burned and the ground is treated with bleach. Also, the Hillary peony can suffer from some insect pests:
• ants - they are attracted to the sweet syrup that forms on the buds. At the same time, they eat leaves and stems. To get rid of the invasion, it is necessary to treat the bush and the ground around it with repellents;
• root-knot nematode - attacks the roots, forming growths on them in which the worms hide. It is impossible to get rid of them, so the affected peony must be pulled out and burned, and the ground treated with bleach.

Planting and propagation of ITO peonies

As we have already mentioned, only vegetative propagation is suitable for ITO peonies - by dividing the rhizome (since these are hybrids, when propagated by seeds, species characteristics are lost).

The optimal time for planting them is the end of August-September (at least, warm October), so the plant will have time to get stronger and take root before the cold weather. But, based on the fact that foreign deliveries of peonies usually come to us in February-March, spring, May planting of ITO hybrids is also practiced.

IMPORTANT It is possible to easily divide the rhizomes of ITO peony into strong, well-established divisions only at the age of 3-5 years, since the plant “will not like it” before, and with age the root system becomes very lignified. In the future, this process will be more difficult for the grower and traumatic for the plant

The ITO peony on the site will prefer a warm place without drafts and stagnant water. These plants do not like dense shade, flooding, proximity to permanent buildings and powerful crops with an extensive root system. They need fertile, well-drained, neutral or slightly alkaline soil.

Before planting, carefully inspect the cuttings - they should be healthy, without signs of rot, cracks, wet or dry spots. Each division should have from 2 to 5 renewal buds. If you are planting a purchased seedling with roots, they should be moist and elastic. Before planting, it is advisable to treat the ITO peony divisions with growth stimulants.

The planting hole for the ITO hybrid should be about 50-60 cm deep and about 1 m wide in diameter - as we have already mentioned, the root system of these peonies grows wider than deep, and if necessary, the plant itself will further deepen its buds.

Planting holes can be prepared immediately before planting the peony or some time before it so that the ground settles a little. A layer of drainage (gravel, broken brick, etc.) can be placed at the bottom.

The division in the pit is placed so that the buds are located at a depth of 3-4 cm. If necessary, the ITO peony division can be safely placed sideways in the planting hole so that all the buds are at the same level. Then the division is covered with loose soil or prepared soil mixture (humus/garden soil/sand in a ratio of 1:1:1).

After planting, the soil around is compacted and watered, after which it is mulched.

How to properly transplant an ITO-hybrid peony

Hybrids do not like transplants, so from the very beginning, even before purchasing a seedling, you should think about everything down to the smallest detail, study a few recommendations:

• ITO peonies are uncomfortable in the shade; they love open places. If there is no sun on the site, but you want to plant a special flower, give it a place in partial shade;
• swampy, excessively wet areas are not to the taste of all peonies, avoid planting in such places, or take care of good drainage and build a high bed;
• there are no problems with the choice of soil - the plant is unpretentious in this sense, the only thing is do not plant it in acidic soil;
• prepare the soil for planting; a mixture of garden soil, neutral peat and humus in equal parts is suitable;
• Regarding the preparation of the holes, the opinions of gardeners differ; it is difficult to say which recommendation is more successful, because with any planting option, ITO peonies take root well and develop in the future. The most practical advice is the following: dig holes immediately before planting, and adjust the width and depth based on the size of the division;
• the roots of ITO peonies are able to grow freely in a direction convenient for them, and hybrids also deepen their buds on their own, so there is no need to dig huge holes to deepen them, just place the seedling in the hole at an angle and sprinkle the buds with soil.

ITO hybrids of peonies are incredibly hardy, unpretentious, they are not afraid of diseases, the most important thing is proper planting. Water the plants moderately, do not forget about irrigation during particularly hot periods. Peonies should also be fertilized in moderation. Studying the experience of growing a flower, we can conclude that all they need is dolomite flour and ash. A solution is prepared from the ash (20 liters of water per glass of ash), and flour is added to the soil.

The first buds on young plants do not need to be removed; check the variety or just admire the new flowerbed. The flowers will not affect the strength of the bush in any way, feel free to leave them, but when they wither, be sure to pick them.

In the fall, when significant frosts occur, the branches of ITO peonies need to be cut off at ground level; feel free to cut off the growth bud, the plant forms much more of them underground than on the surface. If you still left the stems with a bud, they need to be covered for the winter. An adult plant does not need shelter, and young bushes of ITO peonies can be slightly covered with spruce branches in the first year. Late pruning will not harm the plant, and the bush itself will successfully decorate your area with red foliage.

History of selection of yellow peonies

The history of hybridization of peonies and the development of yellow color in flowers is in itself very fascinating. The incredible shades of pink and milky watercolor of these flowers have won hearts for thousands of years, but in the 20th century, with the development of landscape design, and the industry as a whole, the desire to obtain a peony with an unprecedented yellow color quickly grew into an obsession.

The appearance of yellow peonies did not in any way change the popularity of peonies with much more typical shades, but still became a sensation and added an exclusive, luxurious option to the list of available design options, which is still hunted by both botanical gardens and collectors, as well as private gardeners - true fans of this amazing plant.

The entire history of breeding yellow colors in herbaceous peonies can be divided into three periods.

Stage 1 - attempts to achieve a yellow color by crossing herbaceous peonies

Until 1948, active selection was carried out all over the world and largely unsuccessful attempts to obtain varieties with a yellow color continued without drastic measures. As a result of selection based on the large-leaved peony, Mlokosevich and Vitman, which by nature partially have the yellow flavone pigment, modest varieties were obtained that only had individual yellow details.

During this period, the greatest contribution to the hybridization of peonies was made by Earl White, who obtained the first of the conditionally yellow varieties, “Claire de Lune,” in which the yellow pigment appeared so weakly that it only gave the flower shades of cream and ivory.

During the same period, other varieties were bred in garden centers around the world with cream shades of color or yellow color only in the stamens and staminodes, but not in the petals (Ballerina, White Sands, which are still in great demand today). White Sands), Cheddar Cheese, Golden Bracelet, Prairie Moon, etc.).

Stage 2 of Ito-peonies selection

The interspecific hybridization of herbaceous and tree peonies by breeder Toichi Ito became a long-awaited breakthrough in peony breeding. Crossing the yellow peony (Paeonia delavayi), the only peony in which the yellow carotenoid pigment was persistent and allowed hybridization without loss of tone, with a herbaceous semi-double peony, resulted in the first ever variety with picturesque yellow flowers.

The official year of the “start” of yellow peonies is considered to be 1948; the full flowering of plants with a unique color took place after the death of the breeder. Until 1967, when the rights to the hybrids were sold, 4 more yellow Ito hybrid varieties bloomed, and today they remain stellar.

Stage 3 - acquisition of rights to hybrids and the beginning of the American history of peonies

The beginning of the history of yellow peonies on the territory of the New York peony nursery of Louis Smirnov with the official registration of varieties under the name Ito-Smirnov marked the period of replenishment of the collection of varieties and the beginning of the modern history of yellow peonies.

Registered in 1974, the four core varieties began to spread throughout the world, and the designation “Ito hybrids” became not only a registered class of peonies by the American peony community, but also a protected trademark. Other American breeders were also actively working to expand the palette of yellow or almost yellow peonies, and for two decades a new name from the Ito hybrid section appeared in catalogs almost every year.

Since the late 80s of the last century, the selection of Ito hybrids, as well as peonies in general, cannot boast of positive dynamics. Almost all varieties on the market were bred quite a long time ago, and if new products appear, they are far from impressive in quantity.

What are ITO peonies?

Species of peonies (and there are more than forty of them) can successfully cross with each other, which is often used in breeding.

The history of ITO hybrids began with the desire of breeders to develop a variety of herbaceous peony with unusual yellow flowers. No sooner said than done! In 1948, specialists from Japan managed to create such a yellow-flowered complex hybrid, which was named after the scientist-creator, Toichi Ito.

The mother plant for the new perennial was the herbaceous milky-flowered peony, and the father plant was a variety of tree peony with a pale yellow flower color. Alas, the scientist himself did not experience triumph - the resulting plants bloomed for the first time after his death.

In 1974, 4 yellow varieties of new peonies were registered in the American Peony Society (APS) Register. After the name of the author, they began to be called Itoh hybrids all over the world. Later, the Register allocated a whole section of Intersectional Hybrids for such plants, meaning their origin from peonies from different botanical sections: tree and herbaceous. So today, when studying the ITO peonies offered for sale, you can come across both of these names.

ITO – A NEW RACE OF PEONIES

The first varieties of Ito are classified as herbaceous peonies, but they equally possess the characteristics of tree peonies. Therefore, later this race of peonies began to be called Ito hybrids. And even later they were separated into a separate section: Intersectional Hybrids, meaning by this their origin from peonies from different sections: tree and herbaceous.

Ito hybrids have perennial herbaceous bushes

with annual completely (or mostly) dying off ground shoots. The bush is low, 50-90 cm high, wide, spreading to the sides, densely leafy. Stems often deviate or bend. The leaves, similar to the leaves of trees, do not fade for a long time in the fall until the onset of severe frosts; some change color in the fall. The roots, like those of shrubs, become woody, spread to the sides and are less deep than those of herbaceous peonies. Information on the longevity of intersectional peonies has not yet been accumulated, but, based on our experience and taking into account the longevity of the parent pair, we can expect a long and fruitful life for varieties of this group of peonies.

Varieties originating from LH Hybrids bloom in the middle and late periods, simultaneously with varieties of milky peony, varieties originating from tree peony - in earlier periods. Flowering in many varieties is relatively long, up to 2-3 weeks, due to the gradual dissolution of the apical buds and then the flowering of the lateral buds. The flowers are similar in shape and color to tree-like ones, with spots in the center, and are often fragrant.

Julia Rose - Flowers semi-double or double, 18 cm in diameter, cherry red, later pink, peach and pale yellow. Bush height 80 cm.

Ito peonies: benefits, varieties, planting and care

Description and characteristics of culture

Despite the fact that the history of the creation of Ito peony hybrids goes back more than 70 years, not all flower growers in our country know what it is and what the advantages of the culture are.

Peony Ito owes its name to the Japanese flower breeder Toichi Ito, who in 1948, after many years of attempts, created a hybrid of Kakoden and Alice Harding - respectively, varieties of herbaceous and yellow tree peony. The creator did not have time to see the first flowering of his creation, but American breeders continued his work, developing new species of these beautiful plants years later.

Hybrids best combine the characteristics of both predecessors - herbaceous and tree-like. Widely spreading bushes have dense foliage and grow from 50 to 90 cm in height. Aboveground shoots die off annually. Stems are bending and often deviating.

Difference from tree-like and herbaceous

Ito varieties differ from their “parents” primarily in their ability to produce flowers of a bright and rich yellow color, which is impossible for either herbaceous or tree peonies.

In terms of the shape of flowers, the crops have more similarities than differences, but in terms of flowering time, Ito's hybrid peonies stand out in that they bloom later than the others - at the end of May and June. And they delight with bright flowering for a longer period - from three weeks to a month.

A peculiarity in the structure of the Ito bush: their buds, unlike ordinary ones, are formed both under and above the ground (in the lower part from the shoots). After mild winters, the upper ones develop into full-fledged shoots and bloom. If they suffer from frost, the plant will bloom from underground buds.

Advantages and disadvantages

Ito peonies are characterized by exceptional flower color inherited from tree-like peonies and at the same time by abundant flowering, ease of cultivation and propagation, significant frost resistance, taken from their herbaceous “relative”. In late autumn, their above-ground part dies off, and they overwinter well, sprouting new shoots in the spring.

An important additional factor is increased resistance to various diseases.

The color of the flowers is not only unique yellow shades, but also red, purple, and white. An additional pleasant feature of this type of peonies is its wonderful aroma.

Flowering is abundant, while strong, powerful bushes retain their shape even under the weight of a large number of flowers, and the leaves remain decorative almost until winter

Even in late autumn, when the ground part of the herbaceous peonies has withered, the bushes of Ito hybrids attract attention with their beauty and harmony

The flower growers involved in its cultivation do not find any serious shortcomings in the crop. Conditional ones include:

• lack of terry or semi-double in most varieties;
• infrequently - the location of inflorescences under the foliage of the bush, where they are less visible;
• in years of unfavorable weather conditions - the manifestation of variability in the color of some varieties (differences in the color of the petals, the appearance of shading on them).

Currently, breeding Ito peonies is quite an expensive pleasure, which can also be added to the list of their disadvantages.

Diseases, pests and ways to combat them

Ito peonies are immune to pests and diseases. But despite this, they may be susceptible to the following diseases and insect attacks:

• it smolders on the shoots and around the buds of the plant, feeds on its sap and weakens it. You can get rid of it with soapy water;
• bronze The beetle feeds on the leaves, stem and petals of the plant, preventing it from blooming. It can be overcome with the help of decoctions of tansy, dandelion and wormwood or by adding special chemicals to the soil;
• ants. Cause damage to the buds and root system of the plant. You can get rid of it using chemicals, but this may repel the bees;
• leaf spot. A type of fungus that attacks the inside and outside of leaves. The plant is covered with characteristic spore spots. Removing infected leaves and treating healthy ones with boron liquid will help;
• rust covers the leaves with brown spots. Removal of spotted leaves and treatment with Bordeaux solution can be a salvation;
• gray rot. Appears in the spring and affects all parts of the plant with mold. Spreads quickly in damp conditions. It is necessary to water the bush with Thiram suspension and cut off all affected parts of the plant.

Diseased leaves

Ito peonies are distinguished by the unpredictability of the colors of their flowers and the fantastic options for their combination. Flower growers value these plants not only for their beauty, but also for their ease of cultivation.

Propagation of tree peony by seeds, cuttings, layering and division

There are several ways to propagate a tree peony - by seeds, cuttings, layering and dividing the bush.

Propagation of tree peony by seeds. A plant grown from seeds, under a successful combination of circumstances, will be able to bloom only 5-6 years after planting; in addition, tree peony seeds, due to the underdevelopment of the embryo, require mandatory stratification, and during long-term storage they generally lose their germination capacity. When tree peony is propagated by seeds, stratification is carried out in two stages: first warm, then cold. But even performing these difficult manipulations will not guarantee that your efforts will be crowned with success.

Propagation of tree peony by cuttings. Cuttings for this method of propagation need to be semi-lignified, and they are cut in the second half of June: the bud with the leaf plate and part of the shoot wood are separated. The leaf is cut in half, the cuttings are stuck into containers with a mixture of sand and peat to a depth of 1.5 cm, covered with glass or film, regularly watered and sprayed. At the end of September, when the tree peony is propagated, the cuttings are planted in personal pots and kept in a greenhouse until spring. When peonies begin to grow, they can be planted in open ground.

Reproduction of tree peonies by layering. The duration of the reproduction process using this method is two years.

In May, before flowering begins, select developed shoots, carefully bend them to the ground, having previously made a cut on the side facing the soil, treated it with growth substance and inserted a peg into it, and dig in the branch with a layer of soil of 8-10 cm. Moisten the soil above layering when you water the peony

In September, when the roots appear, the shoot is separated from the bush and planted in the ground in a permanent place. Tree peony propagation is also carried out by air layering: an incision is made on the shoot, it is wrapped in damp moss, and then in a film, which is hermetically fixed. Roots will appear by the end of summer. The method is as simple as it is ineffective.

Reproduction of tree peony by dividing the bush. Actually, we just talked about this, all that remains is to add that it is best to divide for propagation bushes that are 5-6 years old and this should be done in August. Planting of the cuttings is carried out in the manner already described.

Watch the video “Tree Peony” to better understand how to propagate this plant:

Reproduction methods

The only suitable way to propagate the Hillary peony is by dividing the bush. If you try to propagate a plant using seeds, the result will be a flower with completely different species characteristics.

Advice! Bush division can be applied to plants that are at least 5 years old. Younger peonies may simply die.

When dividing a bush in the spring, you should remember that the Hillary peony will quickly grow, but the root system will not have time to reach the required size to provide a sufficient amount of moisture. In this case, it is necessary to establish regular watering and protection from direct sunlight.

Dividing in the fall allows the root system to become sufficiently strong before the onset of frost to survive the winter calmly. It is held in August or September. First, cut the isthmus with a sharp knife, and then carefully separate the roots. The parts should be approximately the same and have 3-5 buds.

When dividing, you need to act carefully so as not to damage the roots.

Immediately after separation, the roots are treated with a fungicide to avoid possible infection, and then the peonies are planted in the ground.

Today Ito peonies are at the height of fashion.

Just a few years ago they were considered exotic, which could only be seen in special gardens. But every year they are gaining more and more popularity. However, many gardeners are still afraid to purchase Ito hybrids of peonies, thinking that they are capricious. But in vain! The reason for such worries is that there is little information about growing such hybrids. And the first question that interests many: Ito peonies,

what is it and what are they?

The flower world does not stand still, it is always in motion. Some flowers go out of fashion, others come into fashion. Every year, through the efforts of breeders, some new variety or hybrid of one species or another appears in the world. For a long time, hybridizers tried to create a peony with yellow flowers, but they never succeeded. But when they involved the tree peony in breeding work, they succeeded. In 1958, Japanese horticulturist Toichi Ito crossed an herbaceous peony with a tree peony to produce the first herbaceous peonies with bright yellow flowers. After some time, in 1967, the owner of a peony nursery, Louis Smirnov (in New York), acquired a patent from Toichi Ito, and began to propagate these ITO peonies. In 1974, Louis registered four varieties of Ito peonies with the American Community Register: "Yellow Dream", "Yellow Emperor", "Yellow Crown", and "Yellow Heaven". And since that time the world has learned about yellow peonies.

And so , Ito hybrids

or intersectional hybrids
are
a new generation of herbaceous peonies obtained by crossing tree and herbaceous peonies. Of course, they differ from herbaceous peonies, but only in the positive direction. They have a delightful flower shape and color, bloom profusely (like tree peonies), strong growth, ease of cultivation, ease of propagation (by dividing bushes), high winter hardiness (inherited from the herbaceous peony).

And Ito peonies became so popular due to the unique beauty of the flowers, which have a wide range of shapes and colors. The flowers are of beautiful shades: from light yellow to red, from white to purple, often with contrasting coloring of the petals (in the middle or at the tips). The flowers in the center of the bush open first, then the rest. The buds are especially beautiful: their shape is oblong, with a pointed tip. They are very reminiscent of chestnut flowers.

In addition, all flowers of Ito hybrids are very fragrant and bloom much longer than ordinary herbaceous peonies. From tree peonies they inherited the high stability of peduncles; even during flowering, under the weight of many flowers, the bush does not fall apart. The leaves remain decorative until winter; light autumn frosts do not harm it.

Agricultural technology for growing Ito peonies

, even simpler than herbaceous peonies. These peonies almost never get sick. They do not need shelter for the winter. Only young seedlings need to be covered for insurance in the first year after planting. Everything else is planting and care, the same as for herbaceous peonies. One thing you need to do is monitor the acidity level of the soil. Ito peonies do not like acidic soils, so if necessary, lime them (add slaked lime, wood ash or dolomite flour).

Ito peonies are harder to propagate than herbaceous ones. Their roots, like tree peonies, are long and horizontal. The rhizome is hard, you need to divide it with a knife, or even a hacksaw. The yield of new planting material is low. From a five-year-old bush you can get no more than four cuttings. But the planting material is of high quality.

Ito peonies are long-lived plants, and at 15 years old they are still quite young. As you can see, there is nothing difficult about growing Ito peonies. But there is a sea of ​​beauty and admiration...

Delivery of peonies in Ukraine (Kiev, Donetsk, Kharkov, Dnepropetrovsk, Zaporozhye, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kremenchug, Ternopil, Uzhgorod, Krivoy Rog, Lugansk, Odessa, Kherson, Sumy, Chernigov, Chernivtsi, Lviv, Poltava, Lutsk, Kirovograd, Cherkasy, Khmelnitsky, Simferopol, Sevastopol, Vinnitsa, Zhitomir, Nikolaev, Rivne, Yalta, Melitopol, Bila Tserkva).

Description

Peony ITOH Lollipop (Semi-Double, Full Double 'Lollipop', Intersectional Peony, Itoh Peony 'Lollipop'). In catalogs you can find another name for this peony: Peony ITOH Lolly Pop. This peony will delight you with semi-double and double flowers that bloom simultaneously on the bush. Their color is captivating: creamy yellow with candy-colored pink and purple stripes that run across the entire flower, either around the center or scattered across the petals. Therefore, the flowers are very reminiscent of delicious candies (hence the name of this hybrid). The intensity of the pink-purple color may vary on different flowers. Agree, it is very interesting to observe when flowers of a distinctive color (sometimes different from the photo in the catalog) bloom on a bush at the same time. The popular Ito hybrid peony, it was introduced into cultivation in 1999. Originator: Originator: Roger F. Anderson, USA. Resulting from crossing Anderson's seedling x D-79. It is an off-season Ito hybrid. Lactiflora (lacty-flowered peonies) bloom mid-season.

The graceful peony ITOH Lollipop will add brightness to your garden. The flowers are very original. They consist of thin, ruffled petals with curly edges. The center is represented by golden stamens. Pistils with pink stigmas surrounded by stamens. The flowers are about 16 cm in diameter! The aroma is light. The height of the bush is within 80 cm. Long-lasting flowering: about 4 weeks. Compact plant of medium height. Retains its shape and does not fall apart. During the season it produces up to 30-40 flowers (thanks to their ability to produce primary and secondary buds)! The deeply lobed, serrated dark green foliage, which resembles a tree peony, provides a contrast to the vibrant flowers. The bush is strong; the stems proudly hold the flowers. The shoots are hard and thick. Therefore, this hybrid is well suited for cutting. The stems can be cut without fear because this peony has high vigor and fast growth. The older the plant, the more flowers there are on the bush. After flowering, the bush does not lose its decorative effect; it will decorate your garden until late frosts. Flowering period: May–June. The timing of flowering directly depends on weather conditions.

Ito peonies are created for those who want to admire the colorful and exotic flowers of the tree peony, but prefer the eternal growth cycle of herbaceous peonies. They are also known as cross-sectional hybrids. They are typically tree-like peonies with a dome-shaped habit, a vigorous growth habit, as well as large double flowers and disease-resistant lacy, dark green leaves.

Toichi Ito took it upon himself to do what was previously considered impossible and cross P. lemoinei with P. lactiflora. And finally, pipe dreams come true! The Ito hybrid peony (Paeonia ITOH) is a peony that was obtained by crossing an herbaceous peony with a tree peony. So, in 1948, thanks to the Japanese gardener Toichi Ito, the world first saw a herbaceous peony with yellow flowers (it was bred after unsuccessful 20,000 times, since the results of crossing were negative due to genetic barriers between plants)! Ito hybrids have much in common with tree and herbaceous peonies (they incorporate only the most remarkable qualities). Their flowers are very large, like tree peonies. Their foliage is also the same as that of tree peonies. And the stems of Ito hybrids are herbaceous. They also die off in the winter, just like herbaceous peonies. But what flowers! They amaze with their beauty. Huge, simple, semi-double or double. The colors are also varied - there are white, yellow, pink, red, black, green and two-color peonies. After flowering, gardeners will enjoy the beautiful shrub for the remainder of the season. They retain only extremely short (2.5-5 cm) woody stems above ground level. With undeniable charm, true elegance and pure beauty, this hybrid is recommended for gardens and city parks around the world. He loves well-lit places. In addition, he needs to be provided with areas protected from winds and hot sun rays, and with fertile, humus, permeable soil (it is better if it is loam). The acidity index is slightly sour. The soil should be tilled deeply, with the addition of well-rotted manure or compost, because this plant has deep roots. Do not forget about watering during growth and flowering. It's not difficult to grow. It overwinters in the soil and can grow in one place for many years.

Blooming hybrid peonies

Peony Ito hybrid blooms for a long period. The flowers on the stems in the central part of the bush open first, and then the rest gradually. Their flowering depends on the quality of care provided.

Period of activity and rest

Flowering and dormancy times vary depending on the variety, climatic conditions and care. The bush begins to bloom in late May or early June. At the end of flowering, the foliage remains as a green decoration for the garden. Peace begins with the onset of autumn.

Care during and after flowering

In order for the hybrid to develop normally, it is recommended to pluck the first buds, otherwise the young plant will weaken. Before flowering begins, the flower will respond positively to nitrogen fertilizer. The soil should be loosened and watered abundantly.

6. Diseases and pests of peonies

Sometimes viral spotting appears - plants affected by the virus are immediately dug up with a large lump of earth and destroyed. Such specimens cannot be sent to the compost pit. The hole where the peony was located is generously watered with a boiling strong solution of potassium permanganate.

A large amount of nitrogen in the soil makes plants weak; such specimens easily contract various fungal diseases. Nitrogen will promote the formation of a large number of leaves, but this will be to the detriment of flowering.

Gray rot occurs when there is high humidity and insufficient air movement; it often affects plants that are planted too closely.

Powdery mildew appears as a white coating on the leaves.

Of the harmful insects, the flower can be attacked by nematodes.