How To Plant Peonies [ Full Guide ]

August 18, 2023
/ Planting Tips

Peonies are stunning flowering plants with large, colorful blooms and a delightful fragrance. They are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive for decades if planted and cared for appropriately. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of planting peonies to ensure that they flourish and grace your garden with their exquisite beauty. From selecting the right varieties to preparing the soil and planting process, we will cover all aspects to help you achieve a successful peony planting experience.

Quick Answer: How To Plant Peonies

To quickly summarize the process, planting peonies involves:

Choosing the right peony varieties.
Selecting a suitable site and preparing the location for planting.
Preparing the soil with the correct amendments to ensure optimal growth conditions.
Following a step-by-step guide for planting peonies to promote healthy establishment.

The sections below will provide a more detailed and comprehensive understanding of these steps.

Choosing The Right Peony Varieties

Before delving into the planting process, it’s essential to select the appropriate peony varieties for your garden. There are primarily three main types of peonies: herbaceous, tree, and intersectional peonies. Each type has its own unique characteristics, growth habits, and flowering patterns.

Herbaceous Peonies

These are the most common type of peonies, known for their large, showy flowers and lush foliage.
They are hardy and die back to the ground in winter, re-emerging in spring.
Herbaceous peonies come in a wide range of colors and bloom forms, offering versatility in garden designs.

Tree Peonies

Tree peonies are woody shrubs that produce large, often fragrant flowers.
Unlike herbaceous peonies, tree peonies don’t die back in winter, and their structure adds year-round interest to the garden.
These peonies come in a broader range of flower colors compared to herbaceous types.

Intersectional (Itoh) Peonies

Intersectional peonies are a cross between herbaceous and tree peonies, combining the best traits of both types.
They offer a more compact growth habit while producing a profusion of large, long-lasting blooms.
This newer category of peonies has gained popularity due to their unique characteristics.

When selecting peony varieties, consider factors such as bloom time, plant size, and flower color to ensure they complement your garden landscape and meet your preferences.

Site Selection And Preparation

Choosing the right location for planting peonies is crucial for their long-term health and performance. Here’s what to consider when selecting a site:

Sunlight

Peonies thrive in full sun, which typically means at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Planting them in a location with sufficient sunlight is essential for promoting robust growth and abundant flowering.

Soil Drainage

Peonies are sensitive to waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
Therefore, it’s crucial to select a well-draining site to ensure excess water doesn’t accumulate around the roots.

Air Circulation

Good air circulation helps prevent diseases, such as powdery mildew, which can affect peonies.
Planting peonies in an area with adequate air movement can contribute to their overall health and vigor.

Space Requirements

Consider the mature size of the peonies when planning the planting site to ensure they have ample space to grow without crowding other plants.

After selecting an appropriate site based on the criteria above, it’s time to prepare the area for planting.

Soil Preparation For Peonies

Peonies thrive in well-drained, fertile, and slightly alkaline soil. Before planting, it’s essential to prepare the soil to provide an optimal growing environment for the peonies.

Soil Testing

Start by testing the soil’s pH level, which ideally should be between 6.5 and 7.0 for peonies.
Soil testing kits or services can help determine the current pH and nutrient levels, providing valuable insights for soil amendments.

Soil Amendments

If the soil pH is too low (acidic), adding agricultural lime can help raise the pH to the desired range.
Incorporating well-rotted compost or aged manure into the soil improves its fertility and structure, benefiting the overall health of the peonies.

Soil Texture

Peonies prefer loamy soil that is well-draining yet retains moisture.
Amending heavy clay soils with organic matter, such as compost, helps improve drainage and aeration, creating a more favorable soil texture.

Planting Peonies: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you’ve chosen the right peony varieties and prepared the planting site and soil, it’s time to proceed with the actual planting process. Follow these step-by-step guidelines for successfully planting peonies:

1. Timing

Fall is the ideal time to plant peonies, typically in late September or October.
Planting in fall allows the roots to establish before winter, promoting stronger growth in the following spring.

2. Digging The Hole

Dig a hole that is both wide and deep enough to accommodate the peony root system.
The depth should be sufficient to allow the eyes (buds) of the peony crown to sit just 1-2 inches below the soil surface.

3. Adding Soil Amendments

Mix organic matter, such as compost, into the soil that was excavated from the planting hole.
This amended soil will create a favorable growing medium for the peony roots.

4. Planting Depth

Place the peony plant in the center of the hole, spreading the roots outwards.
Ensure that the eyes (buds) on the crown are just below the soil surface when backfilled, but not buried too deeply.

5. Backfilling And Watering

Carefully backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets.
Water the newly planted peony thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

6. Mulching

Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded leaves, around the planted peony to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

7. Providing Support

If the peony variety tends to have heavy blooms, consider placing a support ring or stakes around the plant to prevent stems from bending or breaking.

8. Post-Planting Care

Throughout the first year after planting, monitor soil moisture and provide supplemental water during dry periods.
Avoid heavy fertilization or disturbances around the newly planted peonies to allow them to establish undisturbed.

Planting peonies can be a rewarding endeavor, especially when done with careful consideration of variety selection, site preparation, and planting techniques. By choosing the right peony varieties, preparing a suitable planting site, and following the step-by-step planting guidelines, you can ensure that your peonies establish strong, healthy roots and grace your garden with their captivating beauty for years to come. With proper care and attention, your peonies will delight you with their breathtaking blooms each growing season.

Watering And Fertilizing Peonies

Peonies are beautiful flowering plants that bring color and elegance to any garden. Known for their large, showy blossoms and sweet fragrance, peonies are a favorite among garden enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, learning how to plant and care for peonies can be a rewarding experience.

Peonies belong to the Paeoniaceae family and are native to Asia, Europe, and North America. They come in a variety of colors, including shades of white, pink, red, and yellow. There are three main types of peonies: herbaceous peonies, tree peonies, and intersectional peonies. Each type has its own characteristics and requirements for planting and care.

Proper watering and fertilization are crucial for the healthy growth of peonies. These plants have specific needs when it comes to moisture and nutrients. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Watering: Peonies require moist soil, but they don’t like to sit in waterlogged conditions. The key is to provide them with consistent moisture without overwatering. During the growing season, water deeply once a week when there is no rainfall. Ensure that the water reaches the root zone, as peonies have deep root systems. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilizing: Peonies benefit from regular fertilization to promote robust growth and abundant blooms. Start by incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil before planting. This will improve soil fertility and drainage. In the spring, once the plants start to show new growth, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the appropriate amount and frequency of application. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Feeding established plants: After the blooming season, peonies will benefit from a second round of fertilization. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer or bone meal to provide phosphorus and potassium, which will aid in root development and flower production. Be mindful not to apply excessive amounts of fertilizer, as this can lead to weak stems and flopping flowers.

Mulching And Weed Control

Mulching and weed control are essential aspects of peony care. By providing a protective layer around the plants and reducing competition from weeds, you can help ensure the health and vigor of your peonies.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, around the base of the peonies. Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and maintain a consistent temperature in the soil. Apply the mulch in early spring, once the soil has thawed, and remove it in late fall before the winter sets in. Avoid piling the mulch directly against the stems, as this can create favorable conditions for rotting.
Weed control: Weeds can compete with peonies for nutrients and moisture, so it’s important to keep them in check. Regularly inspect the area around your peonies and remove any weeds that may sprout up. Be careful when pulling weeds, as peony roots are delicate and can easily be damaged. Hand-pulling or using a small gardening tool to remove weeds is the safest approach. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring can also help prevent weed seeds from germinating.

Managing Pests And Diseases In Peonies

Like any other plant, peonies can be susceptible to pests and diseases. However, with proper care and vigilance, you can minimize the risk and keep your peonies healthy and thriving. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:

Botrytis blight: Botrytis blight, also known as gray mold, is a fungal disease that can affect peonies. It typically occurs in cool, wet conditions and causes browning and rotting of foliage and flowers. To prevent botrytis blight, avoid overhead watering and provide adequate air circulation around the plants. Remove and discard any affected plant material to prevent the spread of the fungus. Applying a fungicide labeled for botrytis control can help in severe cases.
Peony leaf blotch: Peony leaf blotch is another fungal disease that can cause brown spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation and weakened plants. To prevent leaf blotch, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. Remove and destroy any infected foliage. Applying a fungicide labeled for leaf blotch control can be effective if necessary.
Japanese beetle: Japanese beetles can be a nuisance in peony gardens. These pests feed on the leaves and flowers, causing significant damage. To control Japanese beetles, handpick the insects off the plants in the early morning when they are less active. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to deter and kill the beetles. Alternatively, placing traps away from the peonies can help lure the beetles away from your plants.
Other pests: Other pests that can potentially affect peonies include aphids, thrips, and nematodes. Regularly inspect the plants for signs of infestation, such as distorted leaves, yellowing, or stunted growth. Use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils to control aphids and thrips. Nematodes are microscopic organisms that can dwell in the soil and cause damage to the roots. To prevent nematode infestations, ensure proper soil drainage and crop rotation.

Pruning And Deadheading Peonies

Pruning and deadheading peonies is essential for maintaining their health and appearance. Proper pruning techniques will promote strong growth and encourage abundant flowering. Here’s how to prune and deadhead your peonies:

Pruning herbaceous peonies: In early spring, when new growth begins to emerge, cut back the old stems to ground level. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to make neat cuts. Removing the old foliage will minimize the risk of diseases and pests. Be careful not to damage the emerging buds.
Pruning tree peonies: Tree peonies have woody stems that should not be pruned to the ground like herbaceous peonies. Instead, selectively prune back any dead or damaged wood in early spring. Trim branches to encourage an open and balanced shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can lead to reduced flowering in the following season.
Deadheading: Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, is beneficial for peonies. Not only does it improve the appearance of the plants, but it also redirects energy towards root and foliage growth. To deadhead peonies, pinch or cut off the faded flowers just above a set of healthy leaves. This will encourage the development of new buds.
Division: As peonies mature, they may become crowded and produce fewer blooms. Dividing the plants every 4-5 years can rejuvenate them and promote better flowering. The best time to divide peonies is in early fall, after the foliage starts to turn yellow. Carefully dig out the entire plant, taking care not to damage the roots. Use a sharp, clean knife to divide the clump into sections, making sure each division has 3-5 healthy dormant buds. Replant the divisions at the appropriate depth and distance.

Planting and caring for peonies can be a delightful and rewarding experience. By following these guidelines on watering and fertilizing, mulching and weed control, managing pests and diseases, and pruning and deadheading, you can ensure the health and beauty of your peony plants.

Remember to choose a suitable location with well-drained soil and adequate sunlight for your peonies. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter and fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer. Mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and control weeds. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and take measures to manage them as needed. Prune and deadhead your peonies to maintain their shape and encourage robust growth.

With proper care and attention, your peonies will reward you with stunning blooms and vibrant colors year after year. Enjoy the beauty and fragrance these magnificent flowers bring to your garden!

Dividing And Transplanting Peonies

Peonies are among the most beloved perennials in the flower garden. They come in a wide variety of colors, from pure white to deep red, and their large, lush blooms exude a soft, delicate fragrance that is hard to resist. Despite their reputation for being finicky and difficult to grow, with a little TLC and the proper know-how, creating a stunning peony garden is a breeze.

Peonies can live for decades without ever needing to be divided, but occasionally, they can become overcrowded and might not bloom as well as they could. Dividing and transplanting your peonies is not difficult, but it’s important to stick to the correct timing and keep a few details in mind.

When To Divide Peonies

The best time to divide peonies is in early fall, around September. Dividing your peonies in the fall gives them ample time to develop new root systems before winter dormancy sets in. If you divide your peonies in the spring, the plant won’t have time to create new roots before the hot summer weather arrives, making it more vulnerable to drought and stress.

How To Divide Peonies

Before you begin, it’s important to carefully lift the entire root system of your peony from the ground. Use a garden fork or spade to loosen the soil around the base of the plant, being careful not to damage any of the roots. Remove as much soil as possible, then gently separate the roots into two or three sections. Each division should have a few healthy, plump eyes (buds) and a good proportion of roots. Trim away any damaged or diseased areas.

Once your peonies have been divided, it’s time to transplant them. Choose a location that is well-draining and receives plenty of sunlight. Dig a hole that is deep and wide enough to accommodate the roots without crowding them. Fill the hole with well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Place the peony in the hole, making sure the eyes are no more than two inches below the soil surface. Water thoroughly and mulch around the base of the plant.

Winter Care For Peonies

Peonies are hardy perennials that can survive cold winter temperatures, but they do require a bit of extra care during the winter months.

Mulching

A layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help regulate soil temperature and prevent frost heaving. Apply a layer of mulch that is two to three inches deep, but be careful not to cover the eyes.

Watering

During the winter, your peonies will still need water, but they won’t need as much as they do during the growing season. Water your peonies once every two to three weeks, being careful not to overwater and saturate the soil.

Pruning

In the fall, after the first frost, cut the foliage of your peonies to the ground level. This will help prevent any fungal diseases from overwintering in the foliage.

Tips For Maximizing Peony Blooms

Peonies are notorious for their short blooming season, but with a few clever tricks, you can extend the life of your peony blooms and enjoy them for weeks on end.

Provide Support

Peony blooms are notoriously heavy and can cause the stems to droop or even break. Install a support system around the base of the plant, such as a tomato cage or stakes. This will help keep the stems upright and prevent damage.

Deadhead

Removing spent blooms can encourage the plant to produce new flowers. Cut the stem of the spent bloom all the way back to the base of the plant.

Cut And Bring Indoors

Cutting peony blooms to bring indoors can help extend the life of the blooms. Cut the stem at an angle and place in a vase with fresh water. Change the water every other day to keep the flowers fresh.

Troubleshooting Common Peony Growing Issues

Failure To Bloom

If your peony is not blooming, it could be due to a variety of reasons. One common cause is planting the peony too deeply. Make sure the eyes are no more than two inches below the soil surface. Another cause could be insufficient sunlight. Peonies require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Finally, overfertilizing can cause your peony to produce more foliage than blooms.

Fungal Diseases

Fungal diseases such as botrytis blight and Phytophthora root rot can cause wilting, yellowing leaves, and stem rot. To prevent fungal diseases, make sure your peonies are planted in well-draining soil and provide adequate air flow around the plant. Remove any diseased foliage immediately to prevent the disease from spreading.

Ants On Buds

Many gardeners worry when they see ants crawling on their peony buds, but in reality, the ants are harmless. The ants are attracted to the sweet nectar secreted by the buds, but they do not harm the plant or the buds in any way.

Conclusion

Peonies are a stunning addition to any garden, and with a little know-how, they are also easy to grow and care for. Remember, dividing your peonies in the fall, providing winter care, and maximizing your blooms with clever tricks can help ensure you enjoy your peonies for years to come. If you encounter any issues with your peonies, don’t despair – many common problems are easily remedied. With patience and care, your peonies will reward you with their stunning beauty year after year.

FAQS

What Is The Best Time To Plant Peonies?

Peonies should be planted in the fall, preferably in September or October. This gives them enough time to establish their roots before winter.

Do Peonies Prefer Sun Or Shade?

Peonies thrive in full sun, but can also handle partial shade. However, they will produce fewer blooms in shady areas.

How Do I Prepare The Soil For Planting Peonies?

Peonies prefer well-drained, loamy soil, so it is important to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. The soil should also have a slightly acidic pH level of 6.5 to 7.

How Deep Should I Plant My Peonies?

Peonies should be planted 2-3 inches deep with the eyes, or growing points, facing upwards. Planting them too deep can result in poor growth and blooming.

How Often Should I Water My Newly Planted Peonies?

Peonies should be watered thoroughly after planting and then kept slightly moist, but not soggy, until the ground freezes. Once established, they only need about 1 inch of water per week during the growing season.