Peonies are long-lived perennials, so it is worth the effort to prepare the site well and purchase quality plants. Peonies are one of the least demanding perennials giving outstanding bloom and all season foliage on disease and pest resistant plants.

Soil: Peonies prefer a sunny well drained site. Dig a hole larger then the root and amend the soil with compost or bonemeal. Very well aged manure maybe used in moderation. Peonies will not survive in waterlogged soil.

Planting: Place the peony plant in the prepared hole and backfill. The crown buds should be no more then 2 inches below the soil surface. If planted too deep, they may not flower for several years.

Watering: Peonies are drought tolerant but would benefit from watering if the weather is dry during the first season . If you mulch your garden, do not put mulch over the crown.

After Flowering : When the peonies have finished flowering, cut off the spent blooms but leave as much foliage as possible to promote strong roots.

Winter Care: In September, cut foliage off and remove it from the garden to help prevent spreading of any possible disease or fungus.