Growing Peonies

Peonies are easy to grow perennials. 

They produce flower blooms in late spring to early summer. Peonies are hardy to plant in USDA growing zones 2 through 8 and will remain in bloom for approximately one week, depending on the variety.

 Grows 2’ to 3’ tall and 3’ to 4’ wide.

They need well draining soil and sunshine. Generally summer drought resistant, Peonies like a consistent 1” of water weekly in the spring. Peonies may be fed with a 4-10-6 fertilizer in the fall and early spring.  In late fall, cut the stalks down to almost ground level and discard all felled cuttings. 

Failure to bloom can be due to rootstock crowns planted too deeply, too much shade, poor water drainage, an overcrowded planting site or a late spring killing frost. If the peony crown was planted too deeply, dig up the rootball, rework the soil and replant 1/2” higher than soil level. Otherwise, allow the peony foliage to grow and thrive for future year blooms. 

The blossoms are attractive in cut flower arrangements. They are rarely bothered with pests, with the exception of scales. Scales are controlled by removing affected plant material during the autumn and using a pesticide the next May or June. 

We have peonies available at Adams Fruit Market for your garden. 

Happy Planting!

The Plant Lady ~ Linda