Peonies should be planted in a location that meets the following conditions for optimal growth and blooming:
- Sunlight: Peonies thrive best in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In hotter climates, they can tolerate part shade or benefit from some afternoon shade to avoid heat stress
- Shelter: Ideally, plant peonies in a sheltered spot protected from strong winds, although some hybrid varieties can tolerate more exposed locations
- Soil: They prefer rich, well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline. Heavy, waterlogged, or poorly draining soils should be amended with organic matter or avoided, as soggy conditions can cause root rot. Raised beds can help improve drainage if your soil is clay-heavy or poorly draining
- Spacing: Plant peonies about 3 to 4 feet apart to ensure good air circulation, which helps prevent diseases
- Avoid competition: Do not plant peonies too close to trees or large shrubs, as their roots compete for nutrients and shade can inhibit flowering
- Planting depth: For herbaceous and intersectional peonies, plant the crown (growth buds) no more than 2.5 to 5 cm (about 1 to 2 inches) below the soil surface. Planting too deep results in lush foliage but poor flowering. For grafted tree peonies, plant the graft union about 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches) below the surface
- Timing: The best time to plant peonies is in the fall when the plants are dormant, about 4-6 weeks before the first deep freeze. Spring planting is possible if watering is maintained
In summary, choose a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained, fertile soil, away from large plants, and plant peonies shallowly with adequate spacing for best results. This will help ensure healthy plants that bloom beautifully for decades
