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Peonies produce their extravagant display in the spring every year, regardless of weather, because they are among the most durable and longest-lived plants. They have no natural enemies, no exacting cultural requirements beyond full sun and neutral to slightly sweet soil, and they shrug off cold. After bloom is complete, you are left with a handsome mound of glossy, deep green foliage that will happily anchor the next sequence of bloom in the neighborhood. Finally, Peonies make superior cut flowers, lasting more than a week if cut in full bud.
Plant peonies in a site that receives full sun (at least 6 hours a day) and is not close to large trees which will compete with the peonies for nutrients, water, and light. Peonies are long-lived. Dig the holes 18 inches deep, amending the soil with a 3-inch-thick layer of compost such as Cotton Burr Compost. Set the peony plant in the hole with the new buds on the top of the crown only 2 inches below the soil level. Planting any deeper may prevent the peony from flowering. Water the plants well.
Spring and Summer Care
If grown in compost-amended soil, peonies require little supplemental fertilization. An annual application of compost around the drip line of the plant will be enough to keep it growing strong. Keep plants well watered and mulched with a 2- to 3-inch-thick layer of shredded bark mulch. Remove the dead flowers to promote more leaf production and better flowering the following year.
Transplanting & Dividing
If you need to move a peony bush or have one that is flowering poorly due to overcrowding, transplant it in fall. Cut back the foliage to the ground. Dig around the outer edge of the peony clump, trying to dig up as much of the root system as possible. Move it to a new, sunny, well-drained location and set the clump in the hole no deeper than it was previously planted. To divide the clump, remove any loose soil, and with a sharp knife cut the clump so each section has 3 to 5 eyes (buds) as well as a good root system.
With little care, your bush and tree peonies will grow and thrive, providing years of delight in your garden.
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'Duchess De Nemours'
An profuse, early blooming peony, Duchess de Nemours produces creamy white flowers with shadings of green at the base of the petals. The 48" tall plants have strong, dependable stems with excellent foliage. Grow in sun and good soil.
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