Grow Peony In Colorado: A Guide?

This article provides a comprehensive guide on growing peonies in Colorado, covering the best peony varieties, when to plant, and how to prepare the soil for planting. The best time to plant peonies in Colorado is in late September through October, as the soil begins to warm up and daylight hours increase. Peonies are perennials that return yearly with their fattest, most scrumptious flowers and lush green foliage.

When planting peonies, it is important to choose a location that receives full sun or partial shade. Peonies prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil for healthy root growth. Herbaceous peonies do best in full sun but will tolerate light shade. Tree peonies prefer light shade and a protected location. All types of peonies prefer rich, loamy, well-drained soil but will tolerate and bloom in a wide range of soil types.

Planting peonies about four feet apart accommodates their mature size. For those unfamiliar with Colorado’s West Slope, their growing season is easily two or three weeks ahead of the Front Range. To ensure healthy root growth, make sure the soil around the divisions stays moist during the fall and establish a new root structure.

In the fall, move the plants as they are not actively growing and are preparing to go into dormancy. Plant them in full to part sun (at least four hours of direct sunlight per day in summer) with well-drained, slightly acid to neutral soil (pH 6.5). Peonies grow best in USDA zones 2-8 and can last a lifetime.

In September, dig up peonies after they stop growing and before they go dormant. Choose a planting site with full sun (six to eight hours per day), except in southern and southwestern regions where afternoon shade is ideal.

Will peonies bloom the first year planted?

Brooks Gardens received phone calls from customers who planted peony roots last fall. One woman was surprised to see her plants blooming just months after planting them bare root, while another woman had her peony root in a large flower pot produce five flowers. A nervous customer planted over 80 peony roots with just one to two inches of soil over the eyes, careful not to plant too deep. Despite the beautiful growth, he was in a panic and cut many of them for friends to enjoy.

A friend warned him not to cut a first-year peony stem, as it might damage his maturing plants. He was filled with anxiety. The experience highlights the importance of proper root development and planting techniques for successful peony growth.

How many years does it take peonies to bloom?

It is possible for plants to be too young, and while the majority of peonies are typically not grown from seed, some avid gardeners have successfully attempted to do so. Plants cultivated from seeds typically require four to five years to reach maturity and produce flowers. The premature removal of foliage in July or August can result in the weakening of the plant, which may subsequently produce a reduced number of flowers. In the event that buds emerge but fail to open, other potential causes include overwatering, the presence of pests, or inadequate care.

Do peonies grow better in pots or ground?

Peonies thrive in a variety of soil types, including well-drained clay soil. To ensure optimal growth and bloom, it is essential to provide at least a half day of sun and good drainage. Some gardeners are planting peonies in large patio pots or raised beds, but it is crucial to ensure adequate drainage and watering more frequently than ground planted peonies.

To prepare the planting site, dig a hole about 15 x 15 inches and fill it with spaded soil. Place the peony root downward at any angle, with the ‘eyes’ facing upward. Plant the roots near the surface of the ground with just one inch to two inches of soil on top of the ‘eyes’. Avoid planting the peony roots too deeply, as this can result in foliage growth without flowers.

Newly planted bare root peonies will establish feeder roots when planted in the Fall, and winter freezing temperatures will not affect roots planted in the ground. Potted peonies require a large container with adequate drainage, and the eyes should be covered with only one inch to two inches of soil. Water the potted peonies thoroughly upon planting or transplanting, watering them every couple of weeks during dry weather. Once the fall/winter rains arrive, you may not need to water your peonies until you have dry weather in the spring/summer.

Once a peony plant is several years old, it is fairly drought tolerant, but they do appreciate a good watering every few weeks in hot summers. An established peony plant does not need frequent watering. Fertilize your peony plants early in the spring using a slow release fertilizer, as other fertilizers will burn the foliage. If you are fertilizing potted peonies, use a slow release fertilizer, as other fertilizers will burn the foliage.

Deadhead flower/seed pods after bloom and trim your peony stems to shape the bush as desired. If you want to let seed pods mature, leave them on the stems until they crack open in late summer. Plant the seeds in the ground or potting flats and keep moist until the fall rains come. Some seeds will germinate the following spring, while others will sprout the second spring.

Cut peony stems to ground level in the late fall and remove the stems and leaves from the garden for good sanitation. Do not compost peony leaves and stems. Mulching is not required in the Northwest, but some gardeners in very cold winter climates mulch for the winter, but be sure to remove the mulch in the spring to avoid planting too deeply.

Do peonies grow well in Colorado?

There are three main categories of peonies: herbaceous, tree, and intersectional or Itoh. Herbaceous peonies are long-lived, with blooms in late spring. Tree peonies are woody, ornamental trees with large flowers that bloom in early summer. Intersectional or Itoh peonies are hybrids between herbaceous and tree peonies, with foliage dying back in fall but influenced by the tree peony parent. These plants bloom later in summer and for a longer period, making them suitable for outdoor use. It is important to avoid cutting back to the ground in autumn.

Do peonies need full sun?

Peonies thrive in full sun, with some afternoon shade for those in zone 8. They prefer fertile, rich, well-drained soil with plenty of nutrients. If poor soil exists, consider growing them in a raised bed for maximum drainage. Space peonies 3-4 feet apart for good air circulation. The Abalone Pearl peony is a stunning semi-double variety with pink-peach petals and orange anthers. To plant peonies, plant them in the fall when they are dormant, 4-6 weeks before a deep freeze.

What month is best to plant peonies?

Peonies are frost-resistant and can be planted in fall and spring, with late September and October being prime months. They come in bold colors like pink, red, orange, yellow, and white, and there is a special type called Command Performance peony that changes color as it blooms. The petals start deep red and transform to dark orange, peach, and cream, making them gorgeous and fragrant. To plant peonies, follow the expert guide and ensure they are well-watered and fertilized. The Command Performance peony also produces large, fragrant blooms.

Do peonies like sun or shade?

When planting peonies, it’s essential to choose the right location for them. They should receive five to six hours of full sun daily, but also some afternoon shade to avoid harmful effects. Peonies should receive an inch of water weekly, ensuring the soil doesn’t become waterlogged. The soil should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and neutral in pH. If the soil lacks nutrients, add slow-release organic fertilizer. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.

Where is the best place to plant peonies?

Peonies are typically planted in early fall, with the best time being in early spring. They thrive in areas with at least six hours of full sun and well-draining soil. Peonies are sold as divisions with three to four eyes, and they should be free from rot and trimmed away. To plant, dig holes 12-18 inches deep and wide, space them 3-4 feet apart, add fertilizer, fill the hole half full, place the root division with the eyes facing upward, backfill the hole, and water well. This process ensures the plant’s growth and blooms.

Do peonies like full sun?

Peonies thrive in full sun, with some afternoon shade for those in zone 8. They prefer fertile, rich, well-drained soil with plenty of nutrients. If poor soil exists, consider growing them in a raised bed for maximum drainage. Space peonies 3-4 feet apart for good air circulation. The Abalone Pearl peony is a stunning semi-double variety with pink-peach petals and orange anthers. To plant peonies, plant them in the fall when they are dormant, 4-6 weeks before a deep freeze.

How do you keep peonies blooming all summer?

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