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| Photo Credit: John Buettner |
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Paeonia lactiflora ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ is a popular garden peony with rose-pink double blooms. |
A showstopper in the late spring/early summer flower garden, peonies grab all the bloomin’ attention, with their extra-large flowers and attractive leaves. Their huge – and often fragrant – blossoms make wonderful cutflowers, and their dark green leaves last long into summer, forming a backdrop for other flowering plants.
There are two types of peonies grown in the home garden: garden peony (Paeonia hybrids) and tree peony (P. suffruticosa). Tree peonies require much more specialized care and are better suited for the advanced gardener. Garden peonies, however, are easy to grow – as long as some basic steps are taken. Garden peonies grow 2-4 feet tall and thrive in sunny locations and well-drained soil. The best growth occurs in deep, loose soil that’s rich in organic matter and has a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. (Soil testing will determine the pH of your soil). Support, such as a garden stake, is often required for tall, double hybrids. | Add Photo to Journal |  | | Photo Credit: John Buettner | | These pink peonies are an example of the single flower form. |
Planting bareroot peonies, as well as transplanting and dividing peonies, are tasks preferably done in early fall, although they may be done in spring as soon as soils are workable. Container-grown plants can be planted anytime. Each peony requires an area about 3 feet in diameter. Dig a generous hole – large enough to accommodate the roots – and mix in aged organic matter (such as compost) in the bottom of the hole. Place the peony in the prepared area so that the eyes (the plant’s small, red buds) are 1 or 2 inches below the soil surface. Backfill and water well. (Note: If you purchase peonies in the winter or early spring, you may miss out on blooms the first year. The plants require a certain amount of cold weather in order to set buds.)
Peonies may be left undisturbed for many years. A reduction in blooming usually indicates overcrowding and the need for division. Carefully lift the clump and wash away the soil to expose the eyes. Using a clean, sharp tool, divide the clump into sections, each with three to five eyes and good roots. Then replant immediately. Enjoy this old-time garden favorite in the yard or as a fragrant cutflower – you won’t be disappointed.
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