Planting peony bulbs in the spring is a great option. In fact, it is one of the two optimal times to plant peonies, with the other being in the fall. The choice between spring and fall planting often depends on personal preference and the availability of bulbs.
Spring planting is typically done when the ground has thawed and the soil is workable. This usually occurs 2 to 3 weeks before the last frost date in your area. The advantage of planting in the spring is that you can get a head start on establishing your peonies and enjoy their beautiful blooms in the same year.
When planting peony bulbs in the spring, it is important to select healthy and dormant bare root plants. These are usually available at garden centers or can be ordered online. Bare root peonies are essentially bulbs without any soil or foliage, and they can tolerate being planted in the ground before the risk of frost has passed.
To plant bare root peonies in the spring, follow these steps:
1. Choose a sunny location: Peonies thrive in full sun, so select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
2. Prepare the soil: Peonies prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage. Remove any weeds or grass from the planting area.
3. Dig the planting hole: Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the peony bulb’s roots. The hole should be about 1 to 2 feet wide and 12 to 18 inches deep. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to allow the roots to spread out.
4. Place the peony bulb: Carefully position the bare root peony in the hole, making sure the eyes (buds) are facing upwards. The eyes should be no more than 2 inches below the soil surface.
5. Backfill the hole: Gently backfill the hole with soil, ensuring that the roots are covered completely. Avoid compacting the soil too much, as peonies appreciate good drainage.
6. Water thoroughly: After planting, water the peony bulb thoroughly to settle the soil and provide moisture for the roots. Continue to water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
7. Mulch and support: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded bark, around the base of the plant to help conserve moisture and suppress weed growth. Additionally, consider providing support for the peony stems using stakes or peony rings to prevent them from flopping over once they start to grow.
It’s worth noting that while spring planting is a viable option, fall planting is generally recommended as the preferred time for peonies. Fall planting allows the roots to establish themselves before the onset of winter, resulting in stronger and healthier plants the following spring. However, if you missed the fall planting window or simply prefer spring planting, it can still be successful with proper care.
You can absolutely plant peony bulbs in the spring. Just make sure to choose healthy bare root plants, prepare the soil adequately, and provide the necessary care and support for your peonies. Whether you choose spring or fall planting, the reward of gorgeous peony blooms will be well worth the effort.
