October Peonies: May I Move Them?

The best time to transplant herbaceous peonies is in September, when they are past their summer growth and entering winter dormancy. However, it is possible to move the entire root ball in the spring before they bloom. Knowing when to transplant is crucial for a successful move, as the plants have died down and stored enough food reserves in their roots for the following year.

Transplanting peonies in September to November is the best window for this process, as the plants are approaching dormancy during those months. In Northern regions, mid-August is ideal, while in Southern areas, early November is a general guideline. To prepare the plant for new growth, trim away foliage and dig around and under each plant.

In November, spread 4-6 inches of mulch over the peonies to keep soil temperatures stable through the winter. In the spring, remove the mulch. The best time to transplant established peonies is between September and November, at least six weeks before the ground freezes. Old peonies should be transplanted from late summer until late autumn.

Ponies are perfectly happy to be moved, as long as it isn’t full heat or full summer sun. Dig deep (big rootballs) and give them lots of space if necessary. The exact timing for transplanting depends on the region, but mid-August for Northern gardeners and early November for Southern gardeners is a general guideline.

In summary, transplanting herbaceous peonies in September to November is a successful and efficient process that ensures the plants’ survival and growth.

Can peonies be dug up and moved?

Peonies can be left in their natural environment for years, but they may need to be moved to improve flowering or redesign a perennial bed or border. Established peonies should be transplanted in September, starting by cutting the stems near ground level and carefully digging around and under each plant. Replanting in a sunny, well-drained site is crucial. Large peony clumps can be divided into sections with at least three to five buds and a good root system.

Smaller divisions may take several years to develop into attractive plants. Peonies thrive in full sun and well-drained soils, so choose a location with at least six to eight hours of direct sun daily. Avoid shady areas near large trees and shrubs. Poorly drained soils can be improved by working in compost, peat moss, or leaf mold.

Can you transplant peonies in the fall?

Peonies should be transplanted in late August or early September, as they should only be divided or transplanted every ten years or so. It is not necessary to divide them for decades. A sharp spade should be used to create a neat incision around the root mass, after which the plant should be replanted at the same depth as the original planting location. The University of Minnesota Extension has published a bulletin on the subject of dividing perennials, which is applicable to peonies.

Should peonies be cut back for winter?

Herbaceous peonies, which have a die-back foliage in winter, grow in Zone 8 and can be cut back in the fall. Tree peonies, which can grow from Zone 4 to Zone 9, have dinner plate-sized flowers and stems that don’t die down. Hybrids have large flowers and can handle heat but die in winter. Tree peonies should be left alone in the fall and early spring, with some leaves and dead branches removed as needed.

Peonies require minimal winter maintenance, using a thin layer of mulch and cutting them to the ground to avoid plant diseases. Powdery mildew, a white film on peonies, can be left on the leaves during summer, but when cutting back in the fall, remove infected areas and dispose of them far from the garden.

When can peonies be divided and transplanted?

Fall is the optimal time to divide and transplant peonies, as they can overtake an area or grow in too much shade. Plants transplanted in the fall have time to establish roots and produce spring blooms. Dig up a clump of roots, separate it from the main plant, and leave healthy stems and leaves attached. Cut divisions with at least three to five buds, called eyes, to grow into next year’s shoots. Plant the divisions approximately 1 inch deep to prevent them from blooming next year. Transplants take about three years to display full blooms.

Do peonies need to be dug up for winter?

Tree peony plants tend to heave up through the soil and show exposed eyes in winter, but they thrive in cold weather. Leaves deteriorate and need to be removed from the branches and ground. Tree peony branches should be left bare naked for winter. If a tree peony is cut down to ground level, it may be reinvigorated in 2 or 3 years. Tree peonies prefer more soil on top of the roots than bush peonies, so adding a couple of inches of soil around the base of the trunk can help. Once the snow melts, it’s time to tackle any “forgotten” stems. Remember, tree peony plants love cold winters and prefer more soil on top of the roots than bush peonies.

Do peonies multiply on their own?

1. Dig around the peony plant using a sharp spade, ensuring not to damage the roots. Rinse the roots with a hose to remove any dirt and identify the crown buds. Leave the roots in the shade to soften them and make cutting easier.

2. Cut the roots back to about 6 inches (15 cm.) from the crown, as the crown grows into the peony. Each piece should have at least one visible crown bud.

3. Continue dividing peonies until you have as many as possible from the original roots. Plant the pieces in a suitable location, ensuring the buds are not more than 2 inches (5 cm.) under the soil. Store the pieces in peat moss until ready to plant on a warmer day, but don’t store them too long to prevent drying out and preventing growth.

By following these steps, you can propagate peony plants quickly and create many plants in no time. Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter to receive a free download of our DIY eBook “Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter”.

Do peonies like sun or shade?

Peonies require 6-8 hours of sun daily, with some protection from hot afternoon sun in zones 8-9. They thrive in areas with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. There are four main types of peonies: woodland peonies, tree peonies, herbaceous peonies, and intersectional peonies. These beautiful perennials bloom around Memorial Day, with some blooms growing up to 9 inches. Peonies are deer- and rabbit-resistant, making them suitable for gardeners who struggle with animals eating their plants. They can be found in old cemeteries or abandoned farmsteads, as they have received little care for years.

How do you winterize peonies?

Peony roots are safe in the ground over winter, but they require cold temperatures to support their dormancy cycle. To keep pots in an insulated garage, keep them near a warm, sunny window. Harvesting seeds from peonies is easy. Plop seeds in water to determine if they are fertile. If they float, they are unfertilized. Place fertile seeds in a plastic bag with vermiculite and water, and keep it between 18-25°C. Once seeds sprout, transfer the bag to the fridge for three months. This ensures the seeds are safe and healthy for indoor cultivation.

What can I do with peonies in the fall winter?

In the fall, it is important to prune pink peonies after the first hard frost or when the foliage turns yellow. This timeframe depends on your region, but waiting until the leaves absorb full sun throughout the summer encourages abundant blooms the following season. It is crucial to keep your garden’s peonies pruned to ensure the production of fragrant flowers next year. However, it is important not to trim after blooming.

Ellen in Boaz, Alabama, asked if she could trim down the foliage of her over-50-year-old peonies, as they were beautiful when in bloom but not so pretty after the blooms are gone. It is essential to follow the correct pruning schedule and avoid making the mistake of pruning at the wrong time.

Can you get peonies in November?

Peonies are renowned for their enduring chromatic appeal, encompassing a spectrum of whites, blushes, and pinks. However, they also exhibit a proclivity for more vibrant hues, including corals, burgundies, and reds. The blooming period for this species begins in May and June, with a subsequent flowering in November and December. Additionally, they are a requisite element in the bridal bouquets of those who are at the vanguard of fashion trends.

Is peony a November flower?

November birth flowers, the Chrysanthemum and Peony, hold significant cultural and historical significance for those born in this month. The Chrysanthemum, originating from ancient China, is renowned for its beauty and medicinal properties. It is celebrated during the annual Festival of Happiness in Japan and is a versatile choice for various occasions, especially birthdays. The Peony, also known as the “king of flowers”, has been a symbol of wealth and elegance for over two thousand years.

Its lush, full blooms are a favorite in many cultures, particularly in China, where it symbolizes prosperity and honor. The Peony’s presence in art, literature, and festivals highlights its importance and timeless appeal. Understanding the symbolism behind these flowers can make November celebrations even more meaningful.