Peonies have a very special place in my heart. They remind me of my mother (pictured to the left, wearing peonies). Growing up we had pink peonies along the side of the house. It reminds me of her, the garden, and home.
This year, I am planting a peony garden, in honor of her. I think she would be so proud and happy to see the difference we are making in the world: creating beauty and intimate backyard sanctuaries, showing love by designing beautiful garden spaces, where family and friends gather.
See what I’m planting here:
WHEN:
Peonies are best planted in the Fall, or very early Spring, as soon as the ground can be worked. Peonies are very hardy plants, hardy to zone 2, and some sites state that peonies can thrive in zones 3-8. However, I don’t know too many folks in zone 2, to ask their opinion on the matter. Here in zone 7, my peonies come up faithfully every year. They do like some chill hours for proper flower development, which can be difficult in warmer climates. They can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F, but as long as they get the required chill hours, at least six weeks at temperatures that stay consistently between 32-45°F, you will get those beautiful peony blooms.
WHERE:
Peonies are hardy and are some of the easiest plants to grow, requiring very little from the gardener. They tend to prefer full sun, although, if you live in a very warm region, they would prefer some respite from the hottest part of the day. A little dappled shade during the hottest part of the afternoon is often welcomed.
HOW:
Peony roots need to be planted at shallowly, about two inches deep, in good, rich soil. Typically, the soil I use has aged horse and/or cattle manure and I top dress my garden every Spring and Fall with goat compost from a local organic farm. It’s always a good idea to dig an extra-large hole, six inches larger than the root and loosen the soil about twelve inches deep to ensure the roots can expand without too much undue hardship.
What to Expect:
When can I expect these gorgeous, fragrant blooms, anyway?? It depends upon when you plant the peony. If the peony roots are planted in Fall, you may, with a Capital M, see blooms in the Spring. Peonies are slow to establish and will often spend their first year in their new home establishing a solid root system and foliage. After the second year, if they are planted in a place with adequate sun, you should see some nice blooms, Come year three and your peonies will look AMAZING!!!
PRO TIPS:
Peonies do not like to be moved. Choose wisely and try to choose just once where you will plant your peony for best success.
Use tomato cages or professional peony support stands to ensure a tidy, upright bush. Some examples listed here: Peony Supports
You know, at Star Garden Consulting, we love y’all, every one of you. We want to help you create a backyard sanctuary of our very own. Book a consultation here to have the garden of your dreams THIS season. Only a few spots left. Here’s to making the world more beautiful, one garden at a time.
Rooting for your garden,
Angie
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