Growing Peonies in the South: Morning Sun, Shallow Planting, Early Bloomers Win

Three keys for Southern peonies:

1. Loose, well-drained soil + soil conditioner.
2. Morning sun, afternoon shade.
3. Plant shallow—barely 1 inch deep (needs winter chill).

Best Varieties (Early Bloomers)

'America', 'Blaze', 'Bride's Dream', 'Coral Charm', 'Festiva Maxima', 'Kansas', 'Miss America', 'Paula Fay', 'Bowl of Beauty', 'Red Charm', 'Shirley Temple', 'Mons. Jules Elie'.

Expert Tip (Marty DeHart)

Go early. Late bloomers fail in heat. 'Festiva Maxima' and 'Shirley Temple' are intensely fragrant.