Peony Planting Tips

Anywhere and any color, Peonies are amazing to add to a gardening bed and are stunning at this time of the year! Here are some tips to help you determine where to plant yours and how to care for them.

1. They love mostly sunny locations and appreciate some late afternoon shade.

In our hot, Middle Tennessee climate, giving them that late afternoon shade really helps keep Peonies happy and healthy. Otherwise, though, they need a bright, sunny spot for the rest of the day.

2. They do not like "wet feet" (wet roots); they need to be planted in well-draining, fertile soil.

We have a lot of clay in our soil here in Middle Tennessee. If planting in clay, amend your soil with soil conditioner to help with drainage. Peonies will not thrive and can suffer root rot if their roots are constantly sitting in water or wet conditions.

3. There are many varieties!

Some bloom in mid-spring, some in late spring. If you love them (and of course you do, or you wouldn't be reading this!) and want to extend your enjoyment of them, plant different varieties that bloom at different times.

4. Choose varieties well-suited to Zone 7.

The varieties we offer here at the nursery grow well in our climate.

5. Know it can take 3 years or so for them to bloom.

Once you plant them, keep them where they are. By year 3 or 4, you ought to be getting blooms as the plant has become very established, and it will produce more blooms year after year.

6. Fertilize your peonies in late winter/ early spring.

Fertilize with a 10-10-10 fertilizer or a light layer of compost.

7. You may need to stake your Peonies (see the top photo).

This helps keep their blooms supported; after all, they are large blooms and can be quite heavy.

Frequently asked question:

Why are there ants on my peonies?

It's a good sign, so do not spray for them! Ants are drawn to the sweet nectar-like sap the bud produces. They do not harm peonies at all, so our advice is to simply let them be.

Ask us questions at the nursery- we are happy to assist!