Peony Bud Blight (Botrytis): Sanitation, Airflow & Fall Cleanup Are Key

Brown, Shriveled Buds = Botrytis Blight

Fungus overwinters on dead foliage. Your fall cutback helps, but more is needed:

Essential Practices

• Remove & destroy ALL fall debris – Burn or trash; **do not compost**.
• Space plants – 3–4 ft apart for airflow.
• Avoid overhead watering – Wet buds rot.
• Late frost? Can kill buds invisibly; they rot when warming.
• Excess rain? Waterlogged buds = botrytis magnet.

If It Recurs

Take sample to County Extension Agent for lab ID. (Provide location for contact.)

Sanitation is 90% of control. Clean beds = healthy buds.