Peonies are a favorite flower in any landscape and can be easy to grow. Here are some tips for growing pretty peonies:
Fall is the best time for planting. This allows them to get established before the summer heat sets in.
Peonies like a moist, well-drained soil, however, they can be drought tolerant after they get established.
Peonies need a cold winter to bloom, so they do well in Zones 3 through 8.
Fertilize yearly with a higher phosphorus fertilizer for good blooming. Too much nitrogen will give you beautiful plants, but no blooms, which causes us to have the sad face. :(
Ants on the blooms are no big deal and don't hurt anything. They just love peonies as much as we do!
In the fall, cut off and discard the foliage. Plants will regrow in the spring.
Divide peonies in the fall of the year. Peonies are homebodies and don't really like to be disturbed, but you can divide them when they get too large.
Stake in the spring to prevent falling over when they bloom. This will give you the best flower show!
Peonies make a great cut flower, so enjoy!
With these helpful tips, you should be the peony expert in your neighborhood! Let's get planting. Two green thumbs up!