The ants are on the buds of the herbaceous peonies (which we also have). Tree peonies don't have the sweet stuff they enjoy, and don't have the long stems that make herbaceous peonies so good as cut flowers. Both varieties tend to have their demise hastened by storms (Mother Nature giveth and taketh). The tree peony blooms first, and I have missed enjoying its blossoms when I have been away for long weekends.
