How to Divide and Transplant Peonies
Cut the stems of the peonies down to ground level in September., Prepare your new planting area., Dig around and under the plant cluster to remove as much of its extensive root base as possible. , Shake the plant gently to remove any loose soil...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Cut the stems of the peonies down to ground level in September.
It is best to prepare the soil for the new plant before digging the peonies out of the ground.
Plant the newly-divided plants as quickly as possible so the roots do not have time to dry out.
Choose an area that receives full sun.
Although peonies can survive in partial shade, they do best in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sun daily.
Till the soil and enrich it with peat moss or compost if necessary.
Peonies prefer well-drained, rich soil. ,, This will give you a better look at the roots.
You must be able to see the buds (eyes) at the top of the root structure.
Rinse the roots off with the garden hose. , Make sure that each new division has at least three buds and an adequate root system. ,, If the buds are more than 2 inches (5 cm) below the soil, remove the plant and add soil to the hole.
Peonies planted to a greater depth may fail to flower. , Tamp the soil down to firm it. , Keep them well-watered for several weeks while the new plants grow their root base. , The layer of mulch helps protect the soil from thawing and re-freezing during the winter months, which could kill the plant. , -
Step 2: Prepare your new planting area.
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Step 3: Dig around and under the plant cluster to remove as much of its extensive root base as possible.
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Step 4: Shake the plant gently to remove any loose soil.
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Step 5: Cut the plant cluster into smaller pieces using a sharp knife.
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Step 6: Dig a hole for the new plant that is slightly larger than the plant's root system.
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Step 7: Put the peony in the hole at a depth that places the buds 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) below ground level.
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Step 8: Fill the hole the rest of the way with soil.
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Step 9: Water the peonies well.
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Step 10: Mulch the area around and over the plant with 3 to 5 inches (7 to 12 cm) of straw or another organic mulch.
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Step 11: Remove the mulch in early spring before new growth begins.
Detailed Guide
It is best to prepare the soil for the new plant before digging the peonies out of the ground.
Plant the newly-divided plants as quickly as possible so the roots do not have time to dry out.
Choose an area that receives full sun.
Although peonies can survive in partial shade, they do best in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sun daily.
Till the soil and enrich it with peat moss or compost if necessary.
Peonies prefer well-drained, rich soil. ,, This will give you a better look at the roots.
You must be able to see the buds (eyes) at the top of the root structure.
Rinse the roots off with the garden hose. , Make sure that each new division has at least three buds and an adequate root system. ,, If the buds are more than 2 inches (5 cm) below the soil, remove the plant and add soil to the hole.
Peonies planted to a greater depth may fail to flower. , Tamp the soil down to firm it. , Keep them well-watered for several weeks while the new plants grow their root base. , The layer of mulch helps protect the soil from thawing and re-freezing during the winter months, which could kill the plant. ,
About the Author
Janet Anderson
Specializes in breaking down complex cooking topics into simple steps.
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