I have a four year old Itoh peony. It came up beautifully this spring, set blooms - and now the stems are curling and twisting, and the leaves are drooping. I checked for bugs - none. There is no mulch around the base. And now a hosta next to it has leaves that are flipping upside down. Could too much water (had lots of rain this spring) be causing the problem? Can I help these plants to survive?

Stick your finger in the soil and see how it feels. Is it muddy as all get out or is it dry?

It's not soggy, but it is wet. I took a small garden fork and turned over the soil around the drip line. Do you think it's the ridiculous amount of rain we've had?

It could be. Your drip line hasn't been running has it? If you're getting all that rain it doesn't need to be on. The fact that it's not soggy is good and turning the soil over a bit in there will help also. I'd just keep an eye on it and let it go for now. If it gets worse then post back on here with new pictures. If it does it again next year it could be something else.

I should explain - I don't have a sprinkler drip line. I meant the circumference of the plant. Thanks for the advice - I was about to dig it up and try to dry it, but I think you're right. I'll keep water away from the base, turn over the soil, and keep my fingers crossed. Thanks!