Veseys

Hardy in Zones 3-8.

Herbaceous Peony:

Peonies will live for decades with a minimum of care. Peonies like full sun but will tolerate part shade. Plant them 3 ft. apart in rich soil, taking care that the tops of the buds are no more than 2" below the soil surface. In the border, plant them at least 18"-24" away from other perennials to allow room for the foliage. You may want to grow the plants through wire plant hoops to support the heavy blooms.

Tree Peony:

Tree Peonies may live more than a hundred years. They are very hardy (Zone 3-8). Fall or spring is the best time to plant a tree peony. New roots develop and grow rapidly in 18 to 25°C temperatures. Bare-roots should be planted as soon as possible upon arrival. They may be stored for a few days in a cool, humid, dimly lit area. Ensure that the roots remain moist at all times. Planted in full sun or part sun. Requires at least 4 to 5 hours of sunlight daily. In areas where it is very hot in late spring during the blooming season, it is better to plant it in a semi-shady area. Good drainage is essential. Sitting water can cause root rot and be fatal. However, you can provide better drainage by planting it on a gentle slope or in a raised flower bed. Avoid planting tree peonies near large trees which may draw necessary nutrients and moisture away from the peonies. Plant in a permanent location. They dislike being moved. Tree peonies prefer loamy soil with lots of organic matter to a depth of at least 2 feet and a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Space at least 4 feet apart. Tree peony roots grow 3 to 5 feet into the ground. When planting, the hole should be large and deep with ample room to accommodate all the roots. Build a soil cone to support the roots, set the crown on top of this mound, and spread out the roots, octopus style. The crown, or point where the roots meet the stem, should be 1-2" below the soil surface. Fill in the hole little by little using amended soil, hand-pressing to remove any air pockets and to stabilize the plant. Firm the ground gently and water it thoroughly. In cold zones or exposed sites, apply a winter mulch of straw, leaves or evergreen boughs to totally cover the plant for the first 2-3 seasons. Keeping covered with soft snow all winter is also great protection. For the first growing season water every week. You may lightly fertilize your plant one or two times annually with organic fertilizers such as compost, or well-rotted manure or with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer once a month. The best time to fertilize is after blooming or just before the first autumn frost. Your tree peony plant may bloom the first season after planting, but usually takes longer. Once they start to bloom, you will be rewarded each year with an abundance of beautiful flowers.