When and How to Transplant Peonies

When can I transplant Peonies? And how?

Fall is the best time to transplant peonies. Wait for the leaves to yellow or be killed by frost. Use a shovel or spading fork to dig up the root system. You can divide the clump into smaller pieces with at least three to five eyes per section. Prepare the soil by adding organic matter to the top 12 inches of soil. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots. Place the rhizome (swollen underground stem) so it is no more than 2 inches below the soil surface. Water the soil site thoroughly to remove air pockets and insure good root-to-soil contact. Don’t be alarmed if your peony fails to bloom the following spring. It will bloom the next year as long as it was not planted too deep, over fertilized, or placed in an area with heavy shade.

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