Peony Perennials: Plant in Fall for Generations of Blooms

Peonies demand fall planting—spring-planted divisions may wait years to flower. Buy divisions with 4-5 eyes. Plant eyes ≤2" deep in compost-enriched holes (fertilizer at bottom, amended soil above). Full sun preferred; filtered light tolerated. Cool climates suit them best.

Five Forms, Endless Charm

Single, semi-double, double, Japanese, anemone—each flower shape has devotees. Use as foundation plantings, walkway edging, massed before shrubs. Companions: cherry/plum trees, bearded iris, lilacs, false indigo, snow-in-summer. Cultivated in China 1,400-4,000 years ago ("sho yo" = most beautiful), peonies are horticultural heritage you plant once and enjoy for generations.