When is the peony usually divided? How is the peony divided and propagated?

1. Division time

The time for peony division is generally in autumn, starting from the time when the overwintering buds become full and continuing until the ground freezes. If the division is too early, the plant will easily sprout in autumn, which will greatly affect its growth and development in the second year. If the plant is divided too late, the ground temperature will have risen, making it more difficult to take root, resulting in it being unable to bloom.

2. Separation from the basin

Before dividing the peony, you need to dig out the plant first, being careful not to damage its fleshy roots. After taking out the plant, you need to remove the old soil, then cut off the old or dead roots, and then divide the plant into 3-5 clusters, each of which should have 3-5 buds. It should be noted that division needs to wait until the soil is dry. If the soil is too moist, it can easily cause the roots to break, so it needs to be dried for a day first.

3. Prepare the soil

Peony is suitable for growing in loose and fertile soil. The potting soil is generally prepared by mixing garden soil, river sand and decomposed pine needles, with the ratio of the three being 5:3:2. River sand mainly serves to increase drainage, while pine needles can provide an acidic environment, which is conducive to the development of plants. It is not advisable to use soil that is too sticky, otherwise it will affect the breathing of the roots.

4. Potting and Maintenance

After dividing the peony, place the sub-plants in new pots and fill them with prepared soil. After filling the soil, you should water it with an appropriate amount to help the plant recover. After potting, avoid exposure to strong sunlight to prevent the plant from dying. If the sub-plant has more buds, it will bloom in the second year, but the flowers will be smaller. If there are few buds, it will take 2-5 years of cultivation before it blooms.