Growing Daylilies and Peonies from Seed

Starting Perennials from Seed: Patience Required

Daylilies grow from rhizomes, not bulbs. Seeds need cold stratification: sow ½ inch deep in pots or a nursery bed in fall, or stratify in damp paper towels in the refrigerator for 60 days before indoor sowing under lights at 75°F. Seedlings resemble grass—keep weed-free.

Peony Seed Germination

Peony seeds require a more complex, multi-year process (3-5 years to bloom). Follow detailed instructions from Willow Garden for best results.

Timeline Summary

• Outdoor sowing: Fall (natural stratification).
• Indoor sowing: Start in January after fridge stratification.
• Transplant seedlings after last frost, harden off 10 days in shade, then full sun.