By following these tips, you can help ensure that your peonies will thrive and last for many years.
Growing peonies that last for decades, which is certainly possible, requires proper planting, care, and maintenance. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:
Planting: Choose a site with well-draining soil that gets plenty of sunlight. Peonies prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Plant bare-root peony roots in the spring or fall, about 2 inches deep and 3 feet apart. You can plant potted peony anytime during the growing season. That said, Fall is the very best time to move peony plants as they are not actively growing and are preparing to go into dormancy. If transplanted in September or October the roots will have time to settle in while temperatures are cooler but before frost sets in.
Soil preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
Watering: Peonies need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water per week.
Planting: Choose a site with well-draining soil that gets plenty of sunlight. Peonies prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Plant bare-root peony roots in the spring or fall, about 2 inches deep and 3 feet apart. You can plant potted peony anytime during the growing season. That said, Fall is the very best time to move peony plants as they are not actively growing and are preparing to go into dormancy. If transplanted in September or October the roots will have time to settle in while temperatures are cooler but before frost sets in.
Soil preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
Watering: Peonies need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water per week.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring when the shoots start to appear. Repeat the application after the peonies bloom.
Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or bark, around the base of the plants. This helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pest control: Keep an eye out for pests such as spider mites, thrips, and botrytis blight. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as necessary.
Pruning: In the fall, cut back the peony stems to ground level to prevent disease and promote healthy growth in the spring.
Want more detailed information on choosing, planting, and growing peony in Colorado? Click here.
Pest control: Keep an eye out for pests such as spider mites, thrips, and botrytis blight. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as necessary.
Pruning: In the fall, cut back the peony stems to ground level to prevent disease and promote healthy growth in the spring.
Want more detailed information on choosing, planting, and growing peony in Colorado? Click here.