Peonies are one of the most popular flowers for gardens — and for good reason. I mean, look at them! There really is no other flower like peonies. If you want to grow a gorgeous garden full of them, here’s how to do it.
1. Consider Your Climate
Even if you live in a cooler climate, such as zones 14-20, you can grow peonies. If your climate falls into this cooler category, look for Pink Double Dandy peonies. For warmer areas, consider the Sarah Berhdart variety.
2. Afternoon Shade
Peonies prefer shade during the afternoon when it tends to get warm. Choose an area of your yard where they’ll get the cover of shade during the hottest part of the day, and sunshine in the morning.
3. Water Well
Peonies do like their water, so plant them in an area where your sprinkler system will give them plenty, or remember to water them by hand.
4. Containers Are Great
If you want to keep your peonies in containers, you’re probably safe to place them in those containers in early spring, such as late March. Put them in containers than are wider than they are deep.
5. Low-Nitrogen Fertilizer
When you see the leaves begin to come out in the spring, you should really start giving your peonies some low-nitrogen fertilizer.
6. Plant Properly
If you’re buying a peony bush from a nursery, plant it right in the soil with the root ball even with the soil’s surface. Mix in a lot of compost!
7. Cutting Peonies
You don’t have to leave all your peonies outside all summer, do you? If you want to bring in a bouquet, there’s a right and wrong way to cut peonies for longest-lasting blooms.
Leave a Reply