How to Grow Peonies in the UK: Complete Growing Guide
Growing peonies in the UK is a wonderful way to introduce spectacular flowers into your garden during late spring and early summer.
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Peonies are among the most beautiful perennial flowers, producing enormous blooms in shades of pink, red, white, coral, cream and yellow.
Some varieties produce delicate single flowers, while others develop enormous double blooms filled with layers of petals.
Many peonies also have a beautiful fragrance, making them particularly popular in cottage gardens and cutting gardens.
One of the biggest advantages of growing peonies is their longevity.
Once established in a suitable position, herbaceous peonies can continue growing and flowering for decades.
Unlike many summer bedding plants, they don’t need replacing every year.
However, peonies have one particularly important planting requirement.
Planting herbaceous peonies too deeply can prevent them from flowering properly.
This is one of the most common mistakes gardeners make.
Here at Gardening with Ben, I enjoy growing perennial flowers because they provide reliable colour year after year, and peonies are fantastic plants for creating a beautiful early-summer display.
Whether you’re planting your first bare-root peony or looking after an established clump, understanding the correct growing conditions can make a huge difference.
In this complete UK growing guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing peonies successfully.
We’ll explore choosing varieties, planting bare-root peonies, planting depth, watering, feeding, staking, deadheading, dividing established plants and growing peonies in containers.
We’ll also explain why peonies sometimes fail to flower and what you can do to encourage healthy blooms.
What Are Peonies?
Peonies belong to the genus Paeonia.
They’re flowering plants valued for their impressive blooms and attractive foliage.
Different peony species originate from Europe, Asia and North America.
Peonies are generally divided into three main groups.
Herbaceous Peonies
These are the traditional garden peonies.
Their stems die back during autumn and new shoots emerge from the ground each spring.
Tree Peonies
Tree peonies develop permanent woody stems above ground.
They usually produce large, spectacular flowers during spring.
Intersectional Peonies
Also known as Itoh peonies, these are hybrids between herbaceous and tree peonies.
They combine characteristics of both groups.
Understanding which type you’re growing is important because planting and pruning requirements differ.
Peony Growing Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Paeonia species and hybrids |
| Common name | Peony |
| Plant type | Hardy perennial or deciduous shrub |
| Flowering season | Usually April–June, depending on type |
| Flower colours | Pink, red, white, coral, yellow and cream |
| Preferred position | Full sun or light shade |
| Soil | Fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained |
| Best planting period | Autumn |
| Typical herbaceous height | 60–100cm |
| Suitable for containers | Yes, with suitable varieties |
| Hardy in the UK | Many varieties are fully hardy |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate |
| Lifespan | Potentially decades |
Why Grow Peonies in Your Garden?
Peonies offer several advantages.
Spectacular Flowers
Their large blooms create an impressive display.
Long-Lived Perennials
Established plants can flower for many years.
Beautiful Fragrance
Some varieties produce wonderfully scented flowers.
Excellent Cut Flowers
Peonies are popular for bouquets and flower arrangements.
Hardy Plants
Many varieties tolerate normal UK winter conditions.
Attractive Foliage
Their foliage provides structure after flowering.
Suitable for Cottage Gardens
Peonies combine beautifully with other traditional garden plants.
Main Types of Peonies
1. Herbaceous Peonies
Herbaceous peonies are the most commonly grown type in British gardens.
They produce new shoots from ground level each spring.
During autumn, the stems die back naturally.
Best for: Cottage gardens, mixed borders and cutting gardens.
2. Tree Peonies
Tree peonies develop woody stems that remain above ground during winter.
They often produce enormous flowers.
Best for: Sheltered borders and ornamental gardens.
3. Intersectional Peonies
Intersectional or Itoh peonies are hybrids between herbaceous and tree peonies.
They generally produce strong stems and attractive flowers.
Their top growth usually dies back during winter.
Best for: Mixed borders and long-lasting displays.
Best Peony Varieties to Grow in the UK
There are many beautiful varieties available.
Peony ‘Sarah Bernhardt’
One of the most popular herbaceous peonies.
Produces large, soft pink double flowers.
Best for: Cottage gardens and cut flowers.
Peony ‘Bowl of Beauty’
Produces striking pink outer petals surrounding a contrasting creamy centre.
Best for: Colourful perennial borders.
Peony ‘Karl Rosenfield’
A popular variety producing rich crimson-red double flowers.
Best for: Bold garden displays.
Peony ‘Festiva Maxima’
Produces large white flowers with occasional crimson markings.
Best for: Traditional cottage gardens.
Peony ‘Coral Charm’
Known for its coral-pink flowers that gradually change colour as they mature.
Best for: Early-summer colour.
Peony ‘Duchesse de Nemours’
Produces beautiful white double flowers with a pleasant fragrance.
Best for: Fragrant gardens and cutting.
Peony ‘Shirley Temple’
Produces pale pink buds that open into creamy-white flowers.
Best for: Soft-coloured borders.
Intersectional Peony ‘Bartzella’
Produces large yellow flowers.
Best for: Spectacular perennial displays.
When Is the Best Time to Plant Peonies in the UK?
Peonies can be planted at different times depending on whether they’re supplied bare-root or in containers.
Autumn Planting
September through November is generally the best period for planting bare-root herbaceous peonies.
Why Is Autumn Best?
The soil is often still relatively warm.
Autumn moisture helps roots establish before spring.
Spring Planting
Container-grown peonies can be planted during spring.
Summer Planting
Container-grown plants can also be planted during summer, although careful watering is essential.
Winter Planting
Planting may be possible during mild weather when soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.
Best Recommendation
For bare-root peonies, autumn is generally the preferred planting period.
UK Peony Growing Calendar
| Month | Gardening activity |
|---|---|
| January | Check drainage and winter protection |
| February | Look for emerging shoots |
| March | Apply mulch and protect new growth |
| April | Support developing stems |
| May | Enjoy early flowers |
| June | Enjoy main flowering and deadhead |
| July | Maintain healthy foliage |
| August | Water during prolonged drought |
| September | Begin autumn planting and division |
| October | Plant bare-root peonies |
| November | Finish planting and clear dead herbaceous foliage |
| December | Check drainage and protect containers |
Where Is the Best Place to Plant Peonies?
Choosing the right location is important because peonies dislike frequent disturbance.
Full Sun
Most herbaceous peonies flower best in a sunny position.
Aim for approximately six hours of direct sunlight where possible.
Light Shade
Peonies can tolerate light shade, although flowering may be reduced.
Sheltered Positions
Shelter helps protect large flowers from strong winds.
Good Airflow
Avoid overcrowded positions.
Well-Drained Soil
Peonies dislike prolonged waterlogging.
Permanent Planting Position
Choose somewhere they can remain for many years.
Best Soil for Growing Peonies
Peonies prefer fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.
Clay Soil
Peonies can grow well in clay soil if drainage is adequate.
Sandy Soil
Add suitable organic matter to improve moisture retention.
Compost
Well-rotted compost can improve soil structure.
Soil pH
Many peonies prefer neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, although they tolerate a range of soil types.
Avoid Waterlogging
Persistently saturated soil can cause root problems.
How to Plant Bare-Root Peonies
Bare-root peonies are commonly available during autumn.
Correct planting is essential.
Step 1: Choose a Suitable Position
Select a sunny location with good drainage.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Remove weeds and loosen the soil.
Step 3: Improve the Soil
Add well-rotted organic matter where necessary.
Step 4: Dig a Wide Planting Hole
Make the hole large enough to accommodate the roots without bending them excessively.
Step 5: Identify the Buds
Herbaceous peony roots usually have visible reddish buds, often called eyes.
Step 6: Position the Root
Arrange the roots naturally in the planting hole.
Step 7: Check the Planting Depth
Position the buds approximately 2.5–5cm below the finished soil surface.
Step 8: Backfill Carefully
Replace soil around the roots.
Step 9: Firm Gently
Remove large air pockets.
Step 10: Water Thoroughly
Water after planting.
Step 11: Mark the Position
Use a plant label so you don’t accidentally disturb the peony during winter.
How Deep Should You Plant Peonies?
Planting depth is one of the most important factors affecting flowering.
Herbaceous Peonies
The buds should generally be approximately 2.5–5cm below the soil surface.
What Happens If You Plant Too Deeply?
The plant may produce healthy leaves but few or no flowers.
Can You Plant Too Shallowly?
Yes.
Exposed buds may be more vulnerable to damage.
Do Tree Peonies Need the Same Planting Depth?
No.
Grafted tree peonies often need to be planted substantially deeper, with the graft union buried according to the supplier’s instructions, commonly around 10–15cm below soil level.
Own-root tree peonies have different planting requirements.
Important Advice
Always identify your peony type before planting.
How to Plant Potted Peonies
Container-grown peonies are convenient because they can be planted during much of the growing season.
Step 1: Water the Pot
Water thoroughly before planting.
Step 2: Prepare the Planting Hole
Dig a hole wider than the root ball.
Step 3: Remove the Pot
Carefully remove the plant without damaging roots.
Step 4: Check the Crown
For herbaceous peonies, ensure the buds or crown won’t be buried too deeply.
Step 5: Position the Plant
Place at the correct depth.
Step 6: Backfill
Replace soil around the roots.
Step 7: Water Thoroughly
Water immediately after planting.
Step 8: Mulch Carefully
Avoid covering the crown too deeply with mulch.
How Far Apart Should You Plant Peonies?
Spacing depends on the variety.
Herbaceous Peonies
Approximately 75–100cm apart is suitable for many varieties.
Large Herbaceous Varieties
Some need more space.
Tree Peonies
Allow sufficient room for their eventual woody framework.
Intersectional Peonies
Follow the mature spread stated by the supplier.
Why Does Spacing Matter?
Good spacing improves airflow and reduces competition.
How to Grow Peonies in Pots
Peonies can be grown in containers, although they generally perform best with generous root space.
Choosing a Container
Select a large, deep, stable pot with drainage holes.
A container around 40–50cm wide or larger may be suitable for many established plants.
Best Compost
Use suitable peat-free loam-based compost or a stable container-growing mix.
Drainage
Ensure excess water can escape freely.
Position
Place containers somewhere sunny.
Watering
Check compost regularly during warm weather.
Feeding
Use a suitable balanced fertiliser if necessary.
Winter Protection
Container roots are more exposed to cold than roots growing in the ground.
Repotting
Peonies dislike frequent disturbance, so choose a sufficiently large container from the beginning.
How Often Should You Water Peonies?
Peonies prefer reasonably consistent moisture during establishment.
Newly Planted Peonies
Water during dry periods while roots establish.
Established Peonies
Mature plants are relatively tolerant of short dry spells.
Container-Grown Peonies
Pots require more regular moisture checks.
During Flowering
Avoid allowing plants to become severely drought stressed.
Avoid Overwatering
Waterlogged soil can damage roots.
Do Peonies Need Feeding?
Peonies generally don’t need excessive fertiliser.
Spring Feeding
A suitable balanced fertiliser can be applied during spring if soil fertility is low.
Organic Matter
Well-rotted compost can help improve soil structure.
Container-Grown Peonies
Potted plants may need occasional feeding.
Avoid Excess Nitrogen
Too much nitrogen can encourage foliage rather than flowers.
Important Advice
Healthy peonies growing in fertile soil may require very little additional feeding.
Should You Mulch Peonies?
Mulching can be beneficial.
Benefits
- Helps retain moisture
- Suppresses weeds
- Improves soil structure
- Moderates soil temperature
Suitable Mulches
- Well-rotted compost
- Composted bark
- Leaf mould
Important Warning
Avoid piling thick mulch directly over the crown of herbaceous peonies.
This can effectively bury the buds too deeply.
When Do Peonies Flower in the UK?
Peonies generally flower during late spring and early summer.
Tree Peonies
Often flower during April and May.
Early Herbaceous Peonies
May is a common flowering period.
Main Herbaceous Peonies
Many flower during May and June.
Late Varieties
Some continue flowering into late June or early July.
How Long Do Individual Flowers Last?
Individual blooms may last several days to around a week, depending on variety and weather.
How Long Does a Peony Plant Flower?
The overall flowering period often lasts approximately one to three weeks.
How to Make Peonies Flower for Longer
Although individual peony plants have a relatively short flowering period, you can extend the overall display.
1. Choose Early Varieties
Include varieties that flower during late spring.
2. Choose Midseason Varieties
Plant varieties that flower during the main season.
3. Choose Late Varieties
Include later-flowering cultivars.
4. Provide Suitable Growing Conditions
Healthy plants generally flower more reliably.
5. Protect Flowers from Severe Weather
Heavy rain can damage open blooms.
6. Avoid Unnecessary Disturbance
Peonies often perform best when left established.
Why Are My Peonies Not Flowering?
This is one of the most common questions gardeners ask.
There are several possible reasons.
1. Planted Too Deeply
This is a major cause of poor flowering in herbaceous peonies.
2. Not Enough Sunlight
Excessive shade can reduce flower production.
3. Young Plants
Newly planted peonies may need time to establish.
4. Recently Divided Plants
Divided peonies may take time to resume flowering.
5. Excessive Nitrogen
Too much nitrogen can encourage leafy growth.
6. Drought Stress
Severe dryness can affect plant health.
7. Frost Damage
Late frost can damage developing buds.
8. Overcrowding
Large, congested plants may benefit from careful division.
9. Poor Drainage
Waterlogged soil can damage roots.
How to Fix a Peony That Won’t Flower
Step 1: Check the Planting Depth
Inspect the crown of herbaceous peonies.
Step 2: Check Sunlight
Ensure the plant receives enough sunshine.
Step 3: Review Feeding
Avoid excessive nitrogen.
Step 4: Check Soil Moisture
Avoid severe drought and waterlogging.
Step 5: Look for Bud Damage
Inspect for frost or disease.
Step 6: Be Patient
Young plants may need several growing seasons.
Step 7: Consider Replanting
If a herbaceous peony is buried too deeply, carefully lifting and replanting at the correct depth during autumn may help.
Do Peonies Need Staking?
Many herbaceous peonies benefit from support.
Why Do Peonies Flop Over?
Large flower heads become heavy, particularly after rain.
Best Supports
- Peony support rings
- Plant cages
- Bamboo canes
- Twiggy supports
When Should You Install Supports?
Early spring is ideal, before stems become too tall.
Do All Peonies Need Support?
No.
Some varieties have naturally strong stems.
Intersectional peonies often have sturdy growth.
How to Support Peonies Properly
Step 1: Choose a Suitable Support
Use a support appropriate for the plant’s mature size.
Step 2: Install Early
Place supports around emerging shoots during spring.
Step 3: Avoid Damaging Roots
Insert supports carefully.
Step 4: Allow Stems to Grow Through
The support should hold stems naturally.
Step 5: Check During Flowering
Adjust if necessary.
Should You Deadhead Peonies?
Yes.
Removing faded flowers keeps plants tidy and prevents unnecessary seed production.
How to Deadhead Peonies
- Identify a faded flower.
- Follow its stem down to a healthy leaf.
- Cut just above the leaf.
- Leave plenty of healthy foliage.
- Remove fallen petals from around the plant.
Does Deadheading Make Peonies Flower Again?
Most traditional peonies flower once each year.
Deadheading won’t normally produce a second flush of flowers.
Why Deadhead?
It helps keep plants tidy and allows them to concentrate on healthy growth.
Should You Cut Peonies Back After Flowering?
No.
Herbaceous peony foliage should generally remain in place after flowering.
Why Leave the Leaves?
The foliage continues photosynthesising.
This helps the plant store energy for the following year’s growth.
What Should You Remove?
Remove spent flowers and damaged or diseased material.
When Should You Cut Back the Whole Plant?
Wait until the foliage naturally dies back during autumn.
When to Cut Back Peonies in the UK
Herbaceous peonies are usually cut back during autumn.
Best Time
October or November, once foliage has died back.
How to Cut Back
- Wait until foliage has yellowed or died.
- Use clean secateurs.
- Cut stems close to ground level.
- Remove dead foliage.
- Dispose of diseased material appropriately.
Should You Cut Back Tree Peonies?
No.
Tree peonies retain woody stems through winter.
Only remove dead, damaged or unwanted growth as necessary.
How to Care for Peonies in Winter
Many peonies are very hardy.
Herbaceous Peonies
Their top growth dies back naturally.
Tree Peonies
Woody stems remain above ground.
Winter Drainage
Avoid prolonged waterlogging.
Container-Grown Peonies
Protect pots from severe freezing conditions.
Mulching
Apply mulch around the root zone without burying herbaceous crowns.
Do Peonies Need Winter Frost?
Many herbaceous peonies benefit from a period of winter chilling.
This helps support normal seasonal growth and flowering.
Can You Divide Peonies?
Yes.
Established herbaceous peonies can be divided.
Best Time to Divide
Early autumn is generally suitable.
Why Divide Peonies?
- To propagate plants
- To reduce overcrowding
- To move an established clump
- To rejuvenate an older plant where necessary
Important Advice
Peonies dislike frequent disturbance.
Only divide them when necessary.
How to Divide Peonies Step by Step
Step 1: Choose the Right Time
Early autumn is generally suitable.
Step 2: Cut Back Foliage
Reduce foliage to make handling easier.
Step 3: Lift the Clump
Carefully dig around the roots.
Step 4: Remove Excess Soil
Gently expose the root structure.
Step 5: Identify Buds
Look for healthy eyes.
Step 6: Divide Carefully
Use a clean, sharp knife where necessary.
Step 7: Keep Healthy Roots
Each division should have suitable roots and several healthy buds.
Step 8: Replant Promptly
Plant at the correct depth.
Step 9: Water
Water after planting.
Step 10: Be Patient
Divided plants may take time to flower strongly again.
Can You Grow Peonies from Seed?
Yes.
However, growing peonies from seed requires patience.
How Long Do Peony Seeds Take to Germinate?
Germination can be slow and may involve warm and cold periods.
Some seeds take more than a year to emerge.
How Long Until Seed-Grown Peonies Flower?
It may take several years, sometimes five years or longer.
Will Seed-Grown Peonies Be Identical?
Not necessarily.
Seed-grown plants can vary from their parents.
Best Advice
For quicker and more predictable flowering, buy established plants or suitable root divisions.
Are Peonies Good Cut Flowers?
Yes.
Peonies are among the most popular flowers for cutting gardens.
Best Varieties for Cutting
- ‘Sarah Bernhardt’
- ‘Duchesse de Nemours’
- ‘Festiva Maxima’
- ‘Coral Charm’
- ‘Karl Rosenfield’
When to Cut Peony Flowers
Cut double-flowered peonies when buds are showing colour and feel slightly soft, often described as the marshmallow stage.
Single-flowered varieties may need to be cut at a different opening stage.
How to Prepare Cut Flowers
Use clean secateurs.
Remove leaves below the waterline.
Place stems into clean water promptly.
How Long Do Cut Peonies Last?
Vase life varies, but many cut peonies last approximately five to ten days with suitable care.
Common Problems When Growing Peonies
Although peonies are generally robust, several problems can occur.
Peony Buds Not Opening
Possible causes include:
- Frost damage
- Drought stress
- Disease
- Immature plants
- Poor growing conditions
Peony Bud Blast
Bud blast describes flower buds that stop developing and fail to open.
Environmental stress can contribute.
Peony Blight
Fungal diseases, including peony botrytis, can cause shoots and buds to turn brown or black.
Grey Mould
Grey mould can affect flowers and foliage during damp conditions.
Powdery Mildew
White powdery growth may appear on foliage.
Root Rot
Poor drainage can cause root problems.
Ants on Peony Buds
Ants are often attracted to sugary secretions on peony buds.
They generally aren’t harming the plant.
Do Peonies Need Ants to Open?
No.
Peony flowers don’t require ants to open.
Why Are There Ants on My Peonies?
Ants commonly visit peony flower buds.
Why Do Ants Visit?
They are attracted to sugary secretions produced around developing buds.
Are Ants Harmful?
Usually not.
Should You Remove Them?
Generally, there’s no need.
Do Ants Help Flowers Open?
No.
The flowers open naturally when conditions are suitable.
Are Peonies Good for Bees?
Some peonies attract pollinating insects.
Single-Flowered Peonies
These generally provide easier access to pollen.
Double-Flowered Peonies
Some highly doubled varieties offer less accessible pollen.
Best Advice
If pollinator value is important, include single-flowered varieties alongside other nectar-rich plants.
Best Companion Plants for Peonies
Peonies combine beautifully with many other garden plants.
Roses
Roses provide attractive flowers and can extend the overall flowering season.
Salvias
Salvias create contrasting flower shapes.
Geraniums
Hardy geraniums make useful ground-cover companions.
Alliums
Alliums provide architectural flower heads.
Foxgloves
Foxgloves add height to cottage garden borders.
Delphiniums
Delphiniums complement peonies with tall flower spikes.
Catmint
Catmint provides soft blue-purple flowers.
Irises
Irises create attractive late-spring combinations.
Can You Grow Peonies on an Allotment?
Yes.
Peonies are excellent for permanent flower borders and cutting areas.
Suitable Locations
- Permanent flower beds
- Cutting gardens
- Ornamental borders
- Sunny areas near sheds
- Large containers
Important Consideration
Peonies dislike frequent disturbance.
Avoid planting them in vegetable beds that are regularly dug over.
Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Peonies
Are Peonies Easy to Grow in the UK?
Yes. Once established in suitable conditions, peonies are relatively easy to maintain.
When Is the Best Time to Plant Peonies?
Autumn is generally the best period for bare-root peonies.
Can You Plant Peonies in October?
Yes. October is an excellent planting month.
Can You Plant Peonies in November?
Yes, provided the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.
Can You Plant Peonies in Spring?
Yes, particularly container-grown plants.
How Deep Should You Plant Peonies?
Herbaceous peony buds should generally be approximately 2.5–5cm below soil level.
What Happens If You Plant Peonies Too Deeply?
They may produce leaves but few or no flowers.
Do Tree Peonies Need Deep Planting?
Grafted tree peonies often require deeper planting than herbaceous peonies.
Do Peonies Need Full Sun?
Most herbaceous peonies flower best in full sun.
Can Peonies Grow in Shade?
They tolerate light shade, but flowering may be reduced.
What Soil Do Peonies Prefer?
Fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.
Can You Grow Peonies in Clay Soil?
Yes, if drainage is adequate.
Can You Grow Peonies in Pots?
Yes, with sufficiently large containers.
How Often Should You Water Peonies?
Water according to soil moisture, especially during establishment.
Do Peonies Need Feeding?
Usually only modest feeding is necessary.
What Is the Best Fertiliser for Peonies?
A suitable balanced fertiliser can be used if soil fertility is low.
When Do Peonies Flower in the UK?
Usually April through June, depending on type and variety.
How Long Do Peonies Flower?
Individual plants commonly flower for approximately one to three weeks.
Why Are My Peonies Not Flowering?
Planting too deeply, insufficient sunlight, immaturity or excessive nitrogen may be responsible.
Do Peonies Need Staking?
Many large-flowered herbaceous varieties benefit from support.
Should You Deadhead Peonies?
Yes. Remove faded flowers while retaining healthy foliage.
Do Peonies Flower Twice?
Most traditional peonies flower once each year.
When Should You Cut Back Peonies?
Cut back herbaceous peonies during autumn after foliage dies back.
Do Peonies Come Back Every Year?
Yes. They’re perennial plants.
Do Peonies Survive Winter?
Many peonies are very hardy in UK conditions.
Can You Divide Peonies?
Yes. Early autumn is generally suitable.
Can You Grow Peonies from Seed?
Yes, but flowering can take several years.
Are Peonies Good Cut Flowers?
Yes. Many varieties are excellent for bouquets.
Why Are There Ants on My Peonies?
Ants are attracted to sugary secretions on flower buds.
Do Peonies Need Ants to Open?
No.
Are Peonies Good for Bees?
Some varieties, particularly single-flowered types, attract pollinating insects.
Can You Grow Peonies on an Allotment?
Yes. They’re excellent for permanent flower borders and cutting gardens.
Final Thoughts: Growing Peonies Successfully in the UK
Growing peonies is a wonderful way to enjoy spectacular flowers in your garden for many years.
They’re among the most impressive perennial plants, producing beautiful blooms during late spring and early summer.
For the best results, choose a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil.
Autumn is generally the ideal time to plant bare-root peonies.
Remember that correct planting depth is particularly important for herbaceous varieties.
The buds should normally sit approximately 2.5–5cm below the soil surface.
Avoid burying them too deeply, as this can prevent flowering.
Water newly planted peonies during dry weather, provide supports for heavy flower heads and avoid excessive nitrogen feeding.
After flowering, remove spent blooms but leave healthy foliage in place until autumn.
This allows the plant to store energy for the following year.
And if your peony doesn’t flower immediately after planting, don’t be too disappointed.
Some plants need time to establish before producing their best displays.
With patience and suitable care, peonies can become some of the most beautiful and long-lasting flowers in your garden.
Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!