Thanks Joanna! Yes, we use pine straw mulch here, that we put down twice per year. It breaks down easily overtime, and helps to amend the soil.
I don't have the mulch over the crowns of the peonies, but I do use it over the newly planted roots to protect them during the winter. When the plants emerge in spring, I remove the mulch from over them.
Peonies are a joy to grow, and I wish you all the best with yours
