Wow, thanks for the kind words everyone! This year was especially rewarding as I can finally see the time I've put into the beds over the last three years finally paying off.
Karen, the first half of the season was great with clear skies and lots of sun, though not too intense or hot. Many of the early and mid season bloomers stayed in flower for over a week, and even up to two weeks in some cases. The weather has been poor for my later blooming peonies - we've had lots of rain, wind and overcast skies lately. The doubles have been weighed down and water damaged and the singles have been shattering in the wind. How was the weather for your flowers? I remember seeing your HH last year and it looks very much like mine. Over the last two years I have only one flower that was semi-double, and it was the one in the photo I just posted. Hang in there! Maybe next year will be our year.
LG, I have to say my favourite Itoh this year was Magical Mystery Tour. The fade pattern is just so interesting as it moves from pink to orange to red and yellow. It seemed to stay in bloom forever and the flowers were carried above the foliage. Impossible Dream has definitely captured my attention as it seems to retain many tree peony qualities like the foliage and even the bud shape. I really look forward to seeing it next year when it will hopefully reach more mature, double flower form.
