DIY Network

My peony looks like it is dying or something. Don't know what kind it may be as it was a gift 5 yrs ago. The leaves seem to be drying up as it does in the fall. Lack of water has not been the prob here. In past years it has had many large blooms. This year, it had only 2 and they weren't esp lg. Last year was a drought of sorts here. Appreciate your thoughts on my problem.
Thanks, helper

Hi Helper,

Unfortunately there isn't enough info here to be certain what the problem is, but botrytis blight is common, especially in herbaceous peonies. Take a look here to see if that is what you have.
http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/plantdiseasefs/450-602/450-602.html

If that is it, you might want to try making one of these natural fungicides. I'd start with the baking soda spray.
http://www.ghorganics.com/page15.html

Newt

Hi Newt. Thanks for your reply. Sorry for info lack, but that was all I could see of whatever the prob may be. No signs of any kind of mold spores of any color. The leaves are just slowly turning brown. I looked allover the plant and could find nothing. I will try the b. soda spray. Would it be too soon to just cut back as I would in the fall?
thanks, helper

Sorry it took so long to get back to you. Things are a bit crazy here at the moment. If that wasn't it then it could be phytophthora blight or wilt. Take a look here to see what might match what you are seeing.
http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG1153.html

Peony leaf blotch.
http://www.plantpath.iastate.edu/pdc/node/137

Newt

Hi Newt. Hope things are slowing down at your place. I still can't make a determination as to what my poor peony may have HAD. I say had because I cut it to ground zero. Never did see any spore things. It reminded me of how it acts when the fall is coming. I appreciate your info and the links. Thanks so much,
helper