Peonies are a lovely perennial shrub or small tree. Their large, heavy blooms can range in colors from coral, ivory, red and all shades of pink and fuchsia. Tree peonies thrive in the warmer southern states, whereas intersectional and herbaceous peonies can take the colder weather of the northern states. Peonies are slow growing, but your patience will pay off, as these lovely plants tend to live 30 years or longer. There are a few tips you need to know when planting peonies.

Types

There are three types of peonies, intersectional, herbaceous and tree peonies. The tree peonies have a woody trunk and stem and it remains all year round. The leaves are deciduous and fall off in the autumn months. The herbaceous and intersectional peonies die back in the autumn. The intersectional has flowers and foliage similar to the tree peony. Peonies have large, glossy, dark green leaves.

Location

Peonies thrive best when they are planted in the fall months. It is best to do this approximately six weeks before the ground freezes. This is especially important if your area has dry and hot spring weather. The feeder roots have time to grow and stabilize before the winter freeze. Intersectional and herbaceous peonies prefer slightly cooler weather conditions, but most gardeners in zones 2 through 9 have luck with these hardy plants. Unless you have very hot summer weather, these types of peonies work best in sunny locations with soil that has good drainage. If your summers are extremely hot, these types can use an area that is in partial shade according to the article "How to Grow Peonies," on the paeonia.com website. (see reference 1 under Where to Plant Peonies). Tree peonies do best in zones 4 through 9 and perform best in partial shade. Too much shade will result in fewer blooms. Gardeners in zones 4 and 5 should provide protection for their tree peonies during the winter months.

Planting

Peonies do not like to be moved once they are planted, so choose the spot you want it to remain for many years. Choose an area with fertile soil or add compost or rotted manure to the soil. The highest bud of the root area should be no more than 2 inches below ground level. Planting the peony too deeply will result in less blooming and if your planting is too shallow, it may be susceptible to winter damage. The exception to the rule is tree peonies. They need extra depth, Check the directions on the plant or ask a nursery employee at what depth your tree peony will thrive. Standing water will quickly cause the roots to rot and the plant will eventually die. A good well-drained location is imperative for a healthy peony.

Source:

Paeonia.com: How To Grow Peonies

Resource:

Theplantexpert.com: Planting Peonies