Planting Peonies for a future of large, beautiful blooms!
This time of the year is what many would call the end of the growing season. The colder temps the shorter day length most definitely put a pause on most plants, however these conditions are vital for that big growth spurt we are all anxious to see every spring. Cooler temps are especially important for the peonies.
When learning more about peonies last year I was surprised to find out that Alaska produced almost more peonies than anywhere else in the world, second only to the Netherlands. Peonies thrive in the cool, fertile temperatures of the more northern latitudes and will tolerate regions up to USDA Zone 3 (for reference we are Zone 6). While spring planting is an option for these plants, fall planting gives your plant more time to focus on growing roots to establish nutrients for the upcoming spring, allowing more shoots, branches and flowers in the coming season.
Planting peonies roots could not be easier. Select a location that is in full sun and has enough space for plants to spread. While it may take a few years for them to really take off, peonies typically have a spread of around three feet when mature so plan accordingly. Roots should be planted with eyes (the red or white tips found on the root system) pointing upwards and only one to two inches deep. If possible it is a good idea to work the soil under and around the newly transplanted root in order to aid in drainage as they prefer well-drained soil.
This Red Charm Peony Root is looking strong and healthy! Purchased as 3-5 eye roots, many have more. On this one root I found more than six large eyes (the pink parts there) and the starts of many feeder roots (the white little appendages).
A few other tips and tricks when it comes to peonies-
Peonies often develop a powdery mildew and peony leaf spot, especially in wet or humid years such as this year. While this can be unsightly, it is not problematic for the peony plant. If your plant develops either one of these conditions you may choose to treat it or simply remove the infected foliage at the end of the season, disposing of it rather than composting. Ideally, you should leave the foliage as long as you can, or all winter, to ensure it can gain as much energy as possible AND the moths, butterflies, and other insects that live within its branches have a home over the winter months.
I hear many people who believe that peonies are synonymous with ants, I have even heard that ants are required for peonies to bloom. From everything I have read, this is not true! Peonies can bloom without ants however, they do have a mutualistic relationship, meaning one in which they both benefit, with the ant. Ants do enjoy the sweet nectar of the peony flower but they also provide the blooms with protection from beetles and other insects that feast on their petals. If you want beautiful blooms in the garden, thank the ants! If you want beautiful blooms in your vase, harvest sooner! Peonies have one of the largest storage and vase lives amongst the cut flower world. Blooms may be harvested before they open, before they begin to inhabit their petals, when the closed bud is soft to the touch but not yet opened. The “marshmallow” stage of a peony bloom is the ideal harvest time.
In regards to their blooms, if you are wanting the most out of your plants it is best to remove all buds for the first 2-3 years. This will cause your plant to focus less energy on flowering but more energy on bigger roots. Bigger roots, more energy, more nutrients and a noticeable increase in blooms come year four. It’s hard to do, I know it first hand, but don’t be afraid to sacrifice those first blooms for the sake of those to come.
Keeping all of this in mind, be sure to select a good location. As we said, full sun and well drained fertile soil is required but where you plant them in your landscape may need to be reconsidered. You obviously want a clear view of these big, beautiful, full blooms but putting them front and center may not be the best choice. Choose somewhere that can be easily seen and accessed but not so much that the off season foliage and its disease susceptibility can be an eyesore.
So, not that you have all the information, the hardest thing to do is… decide which one you want to add to your landscape!
Red Charm, Paula Fay, Pink Hawaiian Coral, and Dutchesse de Numerous are all available at our location for a limited time! Come see us today to pick up or ensure availability by ordering online. We will be waiting a few more weeks to plant so get yours before they are added to my own collection! See our website for more details on each variety and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
