How to Plant a Peony: Expert Tips for Successful Blooms

How to Plant a Peony?

To plant a peony, first determine which type you have: herbaceous or tree.

Herbaceous peonies should be planted in full sun and well-draining soil, with the budding “eyes” 2cm below the soil surface.

Plant bare root herbaceous peonies between October and March, and potted ones in early spring.

Herbaceous peonies will flower every year from late spring to early summer.

Plant tree peonies in mid-autumn, deeper than herbaceous peonies, with the grafted notch at least 10-15cm below the soil surface.

Avoid pruning until the tree peony is established, and deadhead regularly for more flowers.

Both types prefer full sun.

After three years, herbaceous peonies will be fully established and produce abundant blooms.

Plant them in a sunny border with well-drained soil.

Key Points:

  • Determine whether you have an herbaceous or tree peony
  • Plant herbaceous peonies in full sun and well-draining soil, with budding “eyes” 2cm below the soil surface
  • Plant bare root herbaceous peonies between October and March, potted ones in early spring
  • Herbaceous peonies flower every year from late spring to early summer
  • Plant tree peonies in mid-autumn, deeper than herbaceous peonies, with grafted notch 10-15cm below soil surface
  • Prune tree peonies only after they are established, deadhead regularly for more flowers


Did You Know?

1. Did you know that peonies have been known to live for more than 100 years if properly taken care of? Their longevity is one of the reasons why they are highly sought after by garden enthusiasts.

2. While many people think of peonies as a single species, they actually belong to the genus Paeonia, which includes over 30 different species and numerous hybrids. Each type boasts unique characteristics and blooms in various colors, ranging from white and pink to purple and even yellow.

3. The peony is not only admired for its beauty but also carries cultural significance. In Chinese folklore, it is known as the “King of Flowers” and is considered a symbol of wealth, honor, and good fortune.

4. Peonies have been cultivated for more than 2,000 years and have a rich history. In ancient Greece, they were associated with the god Apollo and believed to be a remedy for numerous ailments. In medieval Europe, peony seeds were thought to ward off evil spirits and witches.

5. Unlike many other flowers, peonies have an intriguing scent that varies from variety to variety. Some peonies emit a light, sweet fragrance, while others have a stronger, spicy scent. This makes them not only visually appealing but also a delight for the olfactory senses.

Types Of Peonies: Herbaceous And Tree

Peonies are beloved perennials known for their exquisite beauty and captivating scent. There are two main types of peonies: herbaceous and tree peonies.

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Herbaceous peonies die back in the winter and emerge vigorously in the spring with lush green foliage.

On the other hand, tree peonies have a woodier top growth that remains visible above the ground throughout the year, providing an evergreen presence in your garden.

Another fascinating variety is the intersectional peony, which is a hybrid of tree and herbaceous peonies, combining the best characteristics of both types.

Planting Herbaceous Peonies

To ensure the health and longevity of your herbaceous peonies, it is important to plant them in the right conditions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Full sun and well-draining soil: Herbaceous peonies thrive in full sun and require well-draining soil. Make sure to choose a location that receives ample sunlight throughout the day and has soil that doesn’t retain excess moisture.
  • Avoid waterlogging: It’s important to avoid planting peonies in areas prone to waterlogging. Excess moisture can cause the peony crowns to rot, leading to poor growth and potential plant death.
  • Planting depth: When planting herbaceous peony roots, make sure to bury the budding “eyes” approximately 2cm below the soil surface. This will help the plant establish properly and promote healthy growth.
  • Timing: If you’re planting bare root herbaceous peonies, it is best to do so between October and March. This allows the plants to establish roots before the growing season. However, if you have potted garden-ready plants, they can be planted in early spring.
  • Abundance of flowers: Once established, which usually takes around three years, herbaceous peonies will reward you with breathtaking blooms every year from late spring to early summer. These flowers are perfect for creating elegant and fragrant bouquets.
  • Recommended varieties: For captivating cut flowers with large double blooms, consider the herbaceous peony ‘Double Pink’ and the peony ‘Pink Hawaiian Coral’. These varieties are known for their stunning beauty and make stunning additions to any flower arrangement.

Remember, providing the right conditions and proper care will help your herbaceous peonies thrive and bring you years of beauty in your garden.

  • Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil
  • Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging
  • Plant the budding “eyes” approximately 2cm below the soil surface
  • Plant bare root peonies between October and March; potted plants in early spring
  • Expect abundant blooms once established, usually after three years
  • Consider ‘Double Pink’ and ‘Pink Hawaiian Coral’ varieties for stunning cut flowers

Planting Tree Peonies

Planting tree peonies requires a slightly different approach than herbaceous peonies. These majestic plants prefer full sun, just like their herbaceous counterparts. However, they need to be planted deeper, with the notch where the stem and rootstock are grafted together sitting at least 10-15cm below the soil surface. It is essential to provide them with well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.

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Mid-autumn is the ideal time to plant tree peonies. This timing allows the plants to establish their roots before the winter freeze. Patience is key when it comes to tree peonies, as pruning should be avoided until they are firmly established, which typically takes around two to three years. Deadheading the spent blossoms regularly will encourage more flower production, ensuring a bountiful display of ruffled magenta blooms.

For an eye-catching color contrast, try the ‘Feng Dan Bai’ tree peony.

  • Plant tree peonies deeper, with graft notch 10-15cm below the soil surface
  • Provide well-draining soil
  • Plant in mid-autumn for root establishment before winter freeze
  • Avoid pruning until tree peonies are firmly established (2-3 years)
  • Deadhead spent blossoms regularly for more flower production
  • Recommended variety: ‘Feng Dan Bai’ tree peony.

Pruning And Propagation Of Tree Peonies

When it comes to tree peonies, careful pruning is necessary. However, it is crucial to wait until the plant is fully established before engaging in any pruning activities. This waiting period allows the tree peony to establish strong roots and become more resilient. Once your tree peony is firmly established, you can shape it by removing any dead or diseased branches. Prune your tree peony to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.

Propagation of mature tree peonies can be done through layering or division. Layering involves bending a low-growing branch to the ground and covering it with soil until it develops roots. Once the rooted branch is well-established, it can be separated from the mother plant. Division is another method of propagation, involving carefully dividing the plant into smaller sections with their own roots. However, keep in mind that tree peony species grown from self-collected seeds may not produce the same blooms as their parent plant. To ensure consistency and reliability, it is best to purchase hybrid plants.

Recommended Varieties For Stunning Blooms

For those seeking captivating blooms, there are several recommended varieties of peonies to consider. The herbaceous peony ‘Double Pink’ is renowned for its large double blooms that open to reveal a stunning shade of pink. If you want a vibrant pop of coral in your garden, the peony ‘Pink Hawaiian Coral’ is an excellent choice. For enthusiasts of tree peonies, the ‘Luoyang Hong’ variety boasts ruffled magenta blooms that add depth and texture to any landscape. Delighting in the contrast of dark and light, ‘Feng Dan Bai’ is another tree peony variety that is sure to captivate with its mesmerizing beauty.

Tips For Successful Peony Planting

To ensure success when planting peonies, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.

  1. Select a sunny spot in your garden with rich, well-drained soil. Peonies thrive in full sun and require nutrient-rich soil for optimal growth.

  2. Adequate drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Make sure the soil is well-drained to promote healthy development.

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By planting your peonies in these optimal conditions, you will be rewarded with abundant blooms year after year.

Lastly, if you want to share your peony gardening journey with others, consider showcasing your beautiful blooms on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Use the hashtag #YourTMGarden to connect with fellow gardeners and inspire others with the beauty of peonies.

Happy planting and enjoy the enchanting world of peonies!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do peonies like to be planted?

Peonies thrive in well-draining soil that has a slightly acidic to neutral pH, making proper soil preparation crucial for successful planting. It is important to incorporate organic compost into the soil to provide the peony with the necessary nutrients. When planting, it is vital to avoid burying the root too deep, as this can hinder the blooming process. By placing the root in the hole and covering the buds with only one to two inches of soil, peonies can be effectively planted and encouraged to bloom vibrantly.

What month is best to plant peonies?

While fall and spring are both ideal times to plant peonies, the month of October holds a particular advantage. As peonies are not susceptible to winter frosts, they can be planted in any season that suits one’s preferences. However, the prime window for planting these technicolor flowers lies in late September to October, providing the most favorable conditions for peonies to establish their roots and prepare for the next growing season.

Do peonies need to be planted deep?

Planting peonies at the correct depth is essential for their growth and blooming. Contrary to common misconceptions, peonies require shallow planting. The roots should be placed near the surface, with just an inch or two of soil covering the buds. It is important not to plant them too deep, as this may hinder their development. Aim to plant bare root peonies at a level slightly below ground or at ground level, with just a gentle mound of soil over the roots. This will provide the optimal conditions for their growth and ensure that they thrive.

Are peonies easy to grow?

Peonies can thrive with relative ease, provided a few essential conditions are met. With proper care, these exquisite flowers can be cultivated successfully. Ensuring a well-draining soil is crucial, as excessive moisture can be detrimental to their growth. While clay soil can be suitable, it is imperative to prevent waterlogging, allowing the plant to flourish effortlessly.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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