In Colorado, Are Peony Growable?

Peonies are excellent cut flowers and low-maintenance perennials that can live for several decades in Colorado. They thrive up to 7,000 feet above sea level in this state, and require cold winters to grow. Colorado’s climate provides just that, and peonies can live for 50 or more years. The best time to plant peonies in Colorado is typically in early spring as the soil begins to warm up and daylight hours increase.

Peonies are perennials that return yearly with the fattest, most scrumptious flowers and lush green foliage. They do well in almost all climates, including Colorado’s arid climate. Herbaceous peonies are long-lived and die back to the ground every year, reemerging early in spring. Blooms are prolific in late spring, most likely mid-May and June in Colorado.

All types of peonies prefer rich, loamy, well-drained soil but will tolerate and bloom in a wide range of soil types. Plant peonies about four feet apart to ensure they are not actively growing and are preparing to go into dormancy. Peonies take 3-4 years to get established after transplanting, even in ideal conditions, whether from bare root or potted. To ensure successful planting, make sure the soil around the divisions stays moist during the fall and they establish a new root structure.

Peonies thrive in Colorado gardens up to about 7,000 feet because they actually require cold winters. Once established, they are cold and drought tolerant, and they can do well at elevations above 8,500 feet.

How cold can peonies tolerate?

Paeonia lactiflora, a native Chinese plant, is the most common herbaceous peony in the horticultural world. These plants, which grow up to 40 inches tall and produce multiple buds, are cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F. They require a long winter dormancy, which is not ideal for the south. However, hybrids of other species peonies, such as Bowl of Beauty, Sarah Bernhardt, and Festiva Maxima, have been created by plant breeders.

These hybrids come in various heights, colors, and bloom times, with stronger stems and fewer side buds. They are suitable for zones 3-7 and some can be grown in zone 8. Heat tolerance varies by cultivar, depending on the species combined.

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.

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.

Can peonies survive in Texas?

In Texas, peonies can be grown due to the need for several weeks of winter chill to bloom in the spring. The soil in growing zones 7-9 is heavy clay, which requires significant amendment to drain well, which peonies prefer. However, if you can find the right sun/shade combination and enjoy peonies through the hot summer with a lot of water, go for it. It may take a couple of years or more for the first blooms to appear. Instead of growing peonies, you can enjoy arranging them in a farmhouse table setting, paired with sweet yellow roses and fern in a wooden crock. This arrangement evokes a “vintage garden” vibe.

Can peonies survive cold?

Peonies are known for their tolerance to cold, which is why southern growers plant their roots shallowly. They have no top growth and require no protection from winter’s chill. However, before the frosts end, peonies start to unfurl and grow. Despite being hardy to frost, even large plants with buds can freeze through. However, there is a stage in their development where they can be damaged easily, especially if the thermometer falls below freezing. The most susceptible stage occurs from a couple of inches tall until they reach 8 or 10 inches. This stage is when the plants are most susceptible to damage.

Can you grow peony 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.

When to transplant peonies in Colorado?

Transplanting herbaceous peonies in September is the optimal time for their growth and winter dormancy. However, planting the entire root ball in spring can also be done before the plants start to sprout new growth. Disturbing peonies at any other time may stress them out. To divide peonies, gently dig up the plant, keeping as many roots as possible. Pull up a lumpy crown with small reddish buds and stringy roots. Shake or wash most of the soil off the roots.

If the crown has at least six eyes, divide it to energize the peony and get more flowers in the future. Use a sharp blade to slice the crown into pieces with at least three eyes each. For optimal flower production, peonies need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, with part shade providing fewer flowers. Soil should drain well and avoid planting in rain-puddled areas.

What zone do peonies grow best in?

Peonies thrive in cool climates and require a period of winter chilling for optimal blooming. They prefer full sun to part shade, with full sun being better for their flowers. Peonies thrive in deep, fertile, humus-rich, moist soils and well-drained soils. Soil pH should be neutral or slightly acidic, and they require good drainage.

Planting peonies involves spacing them three to four feet apart, providing shelter from strong winds, and digging a hole about two feet deep and two feet across. Add a layer of organic matter such as compost, pine bark, or well-aged manure, and mix a half cup of plant food, bone meal, or superphosphate into this layer. Set the root so the eyes face upward on the firmed soil, placing it just two inches below the soil surface. Backfill the hole to prevent burying the root deeper than two inches. Water thoroughly.

Peonies do not flower during the first year of planting and may take up to two years to produce their showy, fragrant blooms. They do not need to be dug and divided, but they require regular, deep watering, especially during the dry summer months. Apply a spring layer of 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) organic mulch to preserve soil moisture, which must be removed and destroyed before winter. A new, fresh winter mulch of loose straw or evergreen boughs must be added to control diseases.

Staking may be required as large flowers tend to arch toward the ground and may be driven to the ground by hard rain. Remove spent flowers as they fade, cutting to a strong leaf to prevent stem sticking out of the foliage. Cut back after the foliage has died down in the fall to avoid overwintering disease.

Where do peonies grow best in the US?

Peonies are easy to grow when planted in the right location with suitable soil conditions. They thrive in zones 3-8 in the USA and prefer sunny areas with good drainage. In hotter climates, they prefer shade to protect their plants from the midday sun. In colder climates, they thrive in sunny areas all day. Planting peonies in poorly draining soil may cause root rot. Raised beds can help with drainage, and clay soils are ideal for peonies.

Plant peonies apart from trees and large bushes to avoid shadow cast and competition for water and nutrients. Wet locations can cause root rot and frost heave, which can harm peonies. Plant peonies 3 to 4 feet apart.

When propagating peonies, consider layering or herbaceous rootstocks. Tree peonies are usually grafted onto herbaceous rootstocks, but layering is possible for the average gardener. Herbaceous peonies are easier to propagate, but planting them deeper than tree peonies can stunt flowering. Fill the hole with dirt and water thoroughly, and water regularly during the first fall and spring. Tree peonies should be planted deeper than herbaceous ones to allow the graft to grow its own roots.

Can peonies grow anywhere?

Peonies, a small-sized shrub, can thrive in any landscape with well-drained soil, adequate light, and good air circulation. They flower in early summer, with the exact bloom time varying by cultivar. Combining early, mid, and late season bloomers can extend the peony season. Peonies are ideal companions for other early summer perennials like iris, alliums, and roses. The foliage keeps borders full and provides a lush backdrop for other flowers.

Peonies are at least 3-feet tall and 3-feet wide at maturity, so it’s important to allow room for them to fill out. Surrounding peonies with a support cage helps keep the flowers upright, and supports should be placed in early spring before the plants are 12″ tall.

Are peonies tough to grow?

Peonies are a popular and easy-to-grow plant known for their scented, impressive, and showy flowers. Despite being considered delicate and difficult to grow, they are extremely hardy and can live happily in a container for some years. To ensure a hassle-free gardening experience and the best display of color and scent, it is important to plant them not too deeply, with tuberous roots not more than 2. 5cm below the surface.

Deeper planting may result in beautiful foliage, but it may not result in flowers. Some intersectional peonies, like ‘Bartzella’ AGM or ‘Julia Rose’, have finely cut leaves that turn crimson red in spring and autumn, while others have strong red stems and light green soft foliage.