How and when to plant peony flowers

Peony planting time

The best time to divide peony flowers is from August to late September. After three or four years of growth, the seedlings can be divided again. If they are not divided for a long time, the root system will become old and the flowering will be affected.

Planting Peonies in Spring

Peonies can be planted in late March. Except for natural precipitation, peonies do not need frequent watering when planted in the ground. They require more water before and after flowering. If there is a spring drought, water them a few times to replenish the lack of soil moisture.

Planting Peonies in Summer

It is best to plant peony flowers in mid-August in summer. After the fruits are harvested, they should be placed indoors or in a cool place. Half a month later, when the peel cracks, take out the seeds and sow them. Soak the seeds in 50-degree warm water, and the seed coat will soften after 24 to 48 hours.

Planting Peonies in Autumn

Peonies can be divided and planted in September and October every year. At this time, the ground temperature is relatively high, which is conducive to the healing of peony wounds and allows them to take root faster. If the division is too early, the peonies can sprout in the same year, but the new sprouts will be frostbitten. If the division is too late, it will be difficult for the peonies to grow new roots and their cold resistance will be reduced.

Planting Peonies in Winter

Peonies are planted around early November in winter. Watering is particularly important during winter. The amount of watering should not be too much each time. It is the principle of watering to keep the soil dry rather than wet. Too much watering will cause water accumulation, which will cause root rot.

How to plant peony flowers

1. Division propagation method: Peony flowers are best divided in autumn from September to October. First, dig out the roots of the mother plant and dry them in a ventilated place for a day. Then separate the roots. Each root cluster has 4 to 5 buds. Apply sulfur powder on the cut and place them in a ventilated place to dry for 1 to 2 days before planting them separately.

2. Seed propagation method: Peony fruits mature in August and can be harvested. Then take out the seeds and soak them in 50-degree warm water. Sow them with a row spacing of 6-9 cm and a plant spacing of 3-4 cm. Cover them with 1-2 cm of soil and mulch. Young roots will emerge in about 30 days, and the two-year-old seedlings can be transplanted.

3. Maintenance: Peony flowers do not require much water and generally do not need watering. If the soil is dry before and after flowering, you can water it slightly. Apply fertilizer three times a year. The first time is when the new shoots emerge, mainly quick-acting fertilizer. The second time is within 15 days after the flowers fade, mainly quick-acting fertilizer. The third time is in autumn and winter, mainly basal fertilizer.