Beautiful to look out and very fragrant,
Peonies are considered classic garden plants. Most of us can remember our
grandmothers growing these delightful perennials so they automatically add a bit of
nostalgia and charm to the landscape. The popularity of Peonies has exploded in the
past few years as new gardeners are rediscovering the exquisite blossoms and lush foliage
these old time favorites have to offer. Peony plants are easy to grow and are one of
the longest lived perennials in the garden - often out living the person who planted them.
Growing Peonies:
Peonies will grow in any decent garden soil but for great looking plants amend your
soil with plenty of organic matter such as peat moss and compost. Peonies should be
planted in full sun to very light shade and should be planted in a permanent location as
plants despise being moved. Newly planted Peony plants will spend their first year
establishing themselves and will not flower. One common mistake made by new gardeners is
planting the root to deep. When planting Peony roots the eyes (soft tips that will become
new growth) should be planted no more than 1 1/2 - 2 inches below the soil level.
Feed plants lightly in the spring with top dressing of bone meal. If
you over fertilize Peonies they often fail to flower. For more details on
growing these wonderful plants see our guide to
Peony care.
Peony
Zones: 3-8
Propagation: division
Problems: none known
Notes: You may notice that Peony buds are often covered with ants -
don't run for the Raid - It is believed that Peonies produce a small amount of nectar that
encourages the ants to help open the dense flower buds.
(pee-oh'
nee)
