Question
My peonies are at least 12 years old and usually bloom well. (They were mature when we bought the house.) Some years they get curled dark leaves in places and some of the buds don't develop to bloom. This year the whole plants are suffering with this - I have about 6 large plants. Can you tell me what this is from and how I can fix it? I don't want to lose them. Also is it true that peonies don't like fertilizer? I live near Vancouver BC Canada, zone 9. Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Judy,
thanx for your question.  It sounds like your plant is experiencing some fungal attack.  This is usually caused by too moist of an environment and inadequate hygiene.  In the fall, when the leaves are turning yellow and dying back, cut them off slightly above the ground and discard them.  Don't water from above but just at the ground level.  In some years, when there is lots of rain, you may experience this problem in various severities.  It usually cures itself.  If the disease persists, you may have to remove plants that die or are dying.  Do not plant any more in their place for 5 years.  Hopefully, the disease won't be severe and won't spread.  You can try anti-fungals.  I've normally just let my plants take care of themselves and they have always come out of it.

Here is a link to the BC Master Gardeners.  They may be able to give you some pointers that are specific to your area.  I hope this helps.
Tom

http://www.bcmastergardeners.org/