Peonies do not need ants on them to bloom; if you see ants on them dust with
Rotenone

I beg to differ - I read in several magazines that ants on the upcoming
blooms
are extremely important for the development of blooming.

I agree with you. I've read the same thing that ants are needed. I've always
had ants on mine before they open and they are always beautiful.
Sue in Mi. (zone 5)