Can You Start Peony From Seed?

This guide provides a step-by-step guide on growing peonies from seeds, a long-term project that requires patience and care. It covers essential techniques such as choosing the right peony seeds, caring for seedlings, and starting the process in late fall or early winter. The guide also discusses the best soil conditions, pH levels, and tips for successful propagation.

Both herbaceous and tree peonies can be grown from seed, but it may not result in an identical plant unless collected from a true species plant. To ensure successful germination and healthy seedlings, the guide covers soil preparation, sowing, germination, transplanting, and more.

Growing peonies from seed is as easy as growing carrots, but it takes a little longer (about 3-5 years). The results are far more satisfying. There are two main methods: collecting blooms as soon as they turn to seed, placing them in moist soil in a plastic bag, and keeping them in a cool place.

Producing seeds from peonies is not difficult if you own certain types. Lactiflora peonies are the most common type grown in gardens and are generally good. Soaking the seeds for several days, placing them in a moist medium, and incubating them at 70 to 80°F for about three months is necessary. Some peonies will emerge in the spring after planting, while others may take an additional year to germinate.

The easiest way to germinate and grow peony seeds is to plant them outdoors as soon as they are ripe, or in late summer if dry seed is obtained in the fall.