From the ArcaMax Publishing, Gardening Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/gardening/s-2498-413107
Peony flower buds that dry up and die before opening could have Botrytis disease. To control this fungus, remove diseased buds and shoots, space plants for good air circulation, and remove winter mulches early in spring.
This news arrived on: 05/15/2008