Peony
Paeonia hybrids
An old-fashioned yet still wildly popular woody, semi-woody or herbaceous perennial, peonies are easy to grow and look stunning in a vase. Hybrids come in an array of white, pinks, red, and yellow. Check varieties for fragrance if that is important to you. Choose open-faced (or single) flowering varieties for native/pollinator gardens. Fun fact: it's an old-wives tale that peonies need ants to open. The ants (and other bugs) just love peony sap!
How to Grow Peony
Quick Info
Put away the pen and paper
Plan your veggie garden in minutes with Planter's easy drag and drop planner.
Try Planter for Free
Diseases
Beneficial Critters
Growing from Seed
Recommended propagation is by dividing plants or purchasing bare root.
If growing from seed, soak seeds 3-4 days to hydrate, changing water daily. Plant seeds in small pots or on damp paper towels and enclose in a baggie. Keep seeds in warm area at 72°-75°F (22°-24°C) for 60-90 days, followed by a cold cycle of 60-90 days at 42°-45°F (5.5-7.2°C). Seeds that have a rootlet will now need warmth to emerge, average 72°F (22°C). Shelter seedlings in pots for 2 years before planting out.
Planting Considerations
Established plants will last for decades. Avoid planting along walls or foundations to prevent disease. Blooms become heavy, especially in rain, so using a hoop or other staking is recommended.
Harvesting
Harvest stems when the bud is in 'marshmallow' stage: squishy through the bud.
Storage
Peony stems can wrapped in newspaper and stored dry in a cooler for up to 6 weeks. However, the longer they are stored, the shorter the vase life.
