The hardy deciduous peony is renowned for its flamboyant flowers that can grow as large as dinner plates, making it one of the spring-blooming stars of any garden. These plants are loved for their large, showy blooms, heady aromas and plenty of personality. The genus Paeonia has approximately 33 species of peonies, including herbaceous perennials and woody shrubs.
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Peonies are medium-sized plants with tuberous, thick storage roots and thin roots that help them absorb water and nutrients. Proper care is important when handling, planting, transplanting, or dividing these beautiful flowers to ensure healthy growth. Known for their elegance, peonies also contain a natural compound called paeonol, which is mildly toxic to animals, so placement in a pet-friendly area is advised.
Whether you’re planning to propagate peonies or add them to your garden, their stunning blooms are a rewarding addition. Their unique structure and vibrant presence make them an all-time favourite for gardeners seeking a blend of beauty and low maintenance.
Types of Peonies
Woodland Peonies
Woodland peonies thrive in zones 3-8, preferring shade or dappled light. These peonies are small and low to the ground, growing up to 2 feet tall. They bloom a week earlier than most varieties, often appearing early in April.
Tree Peonies
Also known as woody shrubs, tree peonies are among the most common varieties. They can grow as tall as 7 feet and bloom in mid-May, making them a stunning addition to any garden.
Herbaceous Peonies
Herbaceous peonies are versatile bushes that do well in zones 3-7. They typically reach 2-3 feet in height with 2-4 feet spread, offering their colorful blooms around Memorial Day.
Intersectional Peonies (Itoh Hybrids)
A hybrid of woody and herbaceous species, intersectional peonies, or Itoh hybrids, bloom in late May to June. They are valued for their vibrant colours and ease of care, combining the best traits of their parent species.
When to Plant Peonies
Peonies can be planted at different times based on their form. Plants sold in pots are best planted in late spring, while bare-rooted divisions should be planted in autumn. This ensures the roots have the proper time to settle and prepare for healthy growth.
Where to Plant Peonies
Choosing the right spot is crucial for thriving peonies. They require full sun with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure optimal growth and abundant blooms. Plant them in fertile soil, ideally improved by digging in garden compost or well-rotted manure. Peonies grow well in various soil types, including clay, if the soil is not waterlogged in winter or excessively dry in summer. These plants are fully hardy and do not require winter protection.
Ensure each large plant has about a square metre (yard) of space to thrive without competition from other plants. If needed, test and amend the soil for proper drainage and quality using organic matter. Adequate spacing helps prevent disease and improves airflow, reducing potential plant stress.
Consider accessibility for planting, maintenance, and harvesting. Proximity to a water source for irrigation ensures convenience, especially if your zone experiences periods of dry weather. Thoughtful planning saves effort and sets the foundation for a vibrant, flourishing garden of peonies.
Growing Peonies From Seeds
Growing peonies from seeds requires patience, as it can take three years for the seeds to develop into seedlings and another three to five years for the plants to bloom. For the best results, plant fresh seeds as soon as they are collected in summer or fall to increase the chances of germination. Use black seeds, as red seeds are not viable. Ensure the planting site has full sun and well-draining soil to provide an ideal environment for the seeds.
Preparing the Seed Bed
Press the seeds ½ inch deep into the soil, leaving them spaced 1 to 2 inches apart. Cover the seed bed with fine wood mulch and a clear plastic sheet to create a protective environment. Secure the plastic by burying the edges with soil or using rocks to hold it. This setup maintains the right moisture levels and protects the seeds during their early growth.
Germination and Early Care
Remove the plastic cover in early spring before the last frost and while nighttime temperatures are still freezing to allow natural growth. It can take three years for the seedlings to develop, growing three to four true leaves. During this period, nurse the seedlings carefully by ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Moving to a Permanent Location
Once the seedlings are strong enough and have grown their true leaves, they can be moved to a permanent location. With proper care and time, these peony plants will eventually reward you with their beautiful blooms, making the wait worthwhile.
Planting Peonies
Prepare the Planting Site
- Please choose a Location: Ensure the site has enough space, about 1m (3¼ft) apart, for the plants to reach their ultimate height and spread.
- Prepare the Soil: Dig a planting hole equal in depth to the root ball or division and twice as wide.
- Amend the Soil: If needed, enrich the soil with organic matter to provide a fertile base.
Plant the Peonies
- Position the Plant: Place the peony in the hole, ensuring the bright red buds are covered with no more than 2.5cm (1in) of soil. Planting too deeply can reduce flowering.
- Firm the Soil: Draw back the soil with a spade and gently press it down with the heel of your boot to secure the plant.
Water and Maintain
- Water Thoroughly: After planting, give the plant a good watering to help settle the soil around the roots.
- Continue Watering: Keep the soil moist, especially in dry weather during the first summer.
Add Mulch
- Conserve Moisture: Apply a layer of well-rotted organic matter around the base of the plant. This helps retain soil moisture and supports healthy growth.
Care for Peonies
Light Requirements
Peonies thrive best in a location that receives at least six hours of sun daily. While they can adapt to some shade, full sun is better for encouraging larger and more abundant blooms. Without sufficient sunlight, you may notice fewer blooms and smaller flowers, and the plants may become prone to fungal diseases.
Soil
Peonies are adaptable but prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. If planting in heavy clay, improve the soil by amending it with compost or a soil mix designed for azaleas and rhododendrons. Since peonies can settle in the same spot for 70 years, preparing the soil before planting is important. Tree peonies prefer slightly more alkaline soil than standard herbaceous peonies or shrubs.
Watering and Mulching
Keep the soil moist by providing 1 to 2 inches of water weekly, especially during dry periods. While peonies can tolerate wet soil, they are not drought-resistant. Adding a layer of mulch helps to retain moisture and lessen weeds. Use materials like pine needles or shredded bark, but promptly remove mulch in spring to avoid smothering the plant.
Temperature and Fertilizing
Peonies thrive in cooler climates, typically in hardiness zones 3 to 8, and they benefit from experiencing cold winters. Feed peonies lightly with an annual application of compost mixed with a small amount of fertilizer, applied at the base of the plants after blooming. For tree peonies, include nutrients like iron, phosphate, sulfate, and bone meal, or use a 5-10-5 fertilizer regularly to ensure healthy growth.
Pruning
Peonies require very little pruning, making them a low-maintenance choice. After blooming, remove dead stems and branches. If you notice a diseased section, cut it away promptly to prevent the spread. When two branches rub against each other, remove the least desirable one. Always cut just above the first bud to encourage healthy regrowth.
Final Observations
Growing peonies can be a rewarding experience, offering beautiful and fragrant blooms year after year. By following the proper planting, watering, and care guidelines, these stunning plants will thrive in your garden. Whether growing them from seeds, planting bare-root divisions, or caring for established peonies, a little patience and attention to detail can ensure that your peonies continue to bloom beautifully for many seasons.
FAQs
Q- Where do peonies grow best?
Peonies grow best in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. They thrive in hardiness zones 3-8.
Q- Are peonies easy to grow?
Yes, peonies are relatively easy to grow, especially if planted in the right conditions and cared for properly.
Q- What month is best to plant peonies?
Peonies should be planted in fall or early spring, depending on whether you’re planting bare-root divisions or potted plants.
Q- Do peonies grow better in pots or ground?
Peonies grow better in the ground, where they have enough space for their roots and can thrive without the constraints of a pot.
Q- How do you grow peonies fast?
To help peonies grow faster, ensure they are planted in well-drained soil, get 6-8 hours of sunlight, and water them regularly during their first few years of growth.
Q- Can I grow peonies indoors?
Peonies are better suited for outdoor gardens but can be grown indoors in a pot with sufficient light and space if needed. However, they may not bloom as well indoors.
