Peonies are one of the most beloved flowers in the garden. They’re stunning, fragrant, and best of all, they can last for decades with very little care. Plant them once, and you’ll enjoy their beauty year after year.
Here’s everything you need to know to plant peonies the right way.
Sunlight Requirements
Peonies love the sun! They need at least six hours of full sunlight per day to thrive. The more sun they get, the better they will bloom.
Soil and Spacing
Peonies prefer well-draining soil that does not stay too wet. Standing water can rot their roots, so avoid planting in soggy areas.
Space your peonies about 3 feet apart to allow for proper airflow and room to grow. Remember, they’ll continue to get larger year after year!
Preparing the Hole
When you’re ready to plant, dig a hole about 12 inches wide. This gives the roots plenty of loosened soil to grow into. Peony roots can be quite long, so don’t skimp on space.
The Secret to Planting Peonies: Keep It Shallow
The most important step in planting peonies is planting them shallow.
• Place the roots so the “eyes” (buds) are facing upward.
• Position the root horizontally in the hole.
• Cover it with only 1–2 inches of soil.
That’s right, just one or two inches below the soil surface! Planting too deep will prevent your peony from blooming.
This shallow planting also ensures the roots get enough cold “chill time” over the winter. Peonies need at least five weeks below 40°F to properly go dormant and bloom the following season.
Peonies are a long-term investment, and they reward your patience:
• Year 1: The plant is settling in. You may see one bloom or none at all.
• Year 2: Expect a few blooms.
• Year 3: The plant will start to bush out and produce multiple blooms.
• Years 5–7: Your peony will reach full maturity, producing an abundance of gorgeous flowers each spring.
Low Maintenance Beauty
Once established, peonies are incredibly low maintenance. They’re hardy, long-lived, and bring unmatched beauty to any garden. With the right planting, your peony plants can last for decades!
Want to add peonies to your garden or landscape? Check out our beautiful peony selection!
