Whether you’re planting bulbs, trees or perennials, the best time to do so is when they’re dormant – before they begin their active growth. The optimal planting time depends on what you’re planting. Perennial plants are best planted in spring, but it’s better to plant peonies in the fall. Why it’s best to plant peonies in the fall Peonies are available as growing, … [Read more...] about How and when to plant peonies
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How to move peonies
I make a point of approaching herbaceous peonies with the respectful manner a garden dowager is due — given the good care they deserve, peonies can live longer than I will. Therefore, when it’s necessary to move or divide peonies, I make sure I’ve got my best manners and the season is autumn, when these ladies don’t mind a bit of handling. There are a couple of good reasons … [Read more...] about How to move peonies
Tree peonies in your garden
A way to extend the all-too-short but oh-so-glorious peony season is to include tree peonies in your garden. Paeonia suffruticosa hybrids bloom a week or two earlier than P. lactiflora and P. officinalis hybrids. Their exoticism may make you think they’re temperamental, but that’s not the case at all, although they are slightly less hardy—Zone 4 versus the common peonies’ … [Read more...] about Tree peonies in your garden