How To Have Better Peonies

I have a peony in my garden which was a division from one grown in my grandmother’s garden. It is a bright double red and although very pretty I am sure there are some newer varieties which are much better. I plan to dig it out and replace it with some others. What are some good double peonies… red, pink and white?

Even though your peony is old, it would be a shame to dig it out. Peonies are usually planted to last many years, and it is quite possible that some of the varieties your grandmother grew are still grown today. Of course, over the years much has been done to improve the peony. For good selection of the latest varieties visit peonies.net.

Is it possible to separate and divide tree peonies the same way you do the herbaceous kind?

Yes, it is possible but very unwise to disturb a tree peony. Look upon a tree peony in the garden the same way you would a specimen shrub: when you plant it in one spot it stays there. Many tree peonies are actually grafted on the herbaceous type… below the soil level at the roots. Dividing a tree peony may result in complete failure. Root-grafting, so far, is the most popular means of increasing tree peonies used by commercial growers. This is extremely difficult, and often the results are uncertain even when done by an expert. Tree peonies are also grown from seed, but germination is often very poor and it takes upwards of six years to get a blooming-sized plant from a seedling.

What is the trick in planting peonies?

Not that you would call it a “trick,” but planting at the proper depth is very important. Peonies should be planted (in fall, incidentally) so the eyes are from 1 to 2 inches below the surface. Many plants have failed to bloom be-cause they were planted too deep… more than 2 inches.

Another “trick” might be good soil preparation. Peonies are planted to stay in the same spot for fifty years, so be sure to select the site carefully before planting. In fact, many times peonies don’t start to hit their stride until after they have been growing five years. Soil, then, is important. Pre-pare the soil to a depth of 18 inches, adding plant food and manure (but don’t let the manure touch the plant) or compost so that it is in a good friable or loose condition. The final “trick” is to firm the bottom of the prepared hole with your foot to make sure the plants won’t settle below the desired 2 inches.

What is the difference between single and Japanese peonies and what are some varieties of each that would be suitable for cutting and arranging?

Single peonies usually have one or two rows of large petals and a central cluster of yellow stamens. Japanese varieties have a larger cluster of modified stamens… technically called staminodes which look like shredded petals. Again visit peonies.net for a wide selection of the latest varieties.

I have read in catalogs that fall is the time to plant peonies. However, my neighbor says that he has planted them successfully in the spring. Who is right?

When given proper care and attention it is almost possible to transplant a peony any day of the year. But, because of the nature of the peony plant and the experience of many gardeners, fall is the preferred time. As you know, a peony sends up new shoots early in the spring. When it is disturbed while in this early growth, the plant receives a severe setback which can result in the death of the plant. In the fall the plant is in a dormant stage and receives little or no setback when moved.

Yes, you can plant peonies in the spring, but the chances are you will have much better results if you plant in the fall. Many peony specialists only sell plants in the fall.

Related Articles Of Interest:

• Tree Peony – Specialist Advice For Amateurs
• Peonies – From the Wills Garden Series
• Peonies for Cutting
• Tips on Growing Peonies