Planting Bare-Root Lily of the Valley and Peonies in August: Better Late Than Never

Bare-root lily of the valley and 'Sarah Bernhardt' peonies held since March in sealed bags (Zone 7 NC) are alive if roots are firm and white. The whitish mold on one peony root is likely harmless surface fungus.

Immediate Action

1. Plant today. Every day in the bag reduces survival.
2. Trim any mushy/black roots. Dust cuts with sulfur or cinnamon.
3. Plant lily of the valley pips 1″ deep, 4″ apart in shade.
4. Plant peony with eyes 1–2″ below soil—not deeper.
5. Water thoroughly. Mulch 2″.

Expectations

• Lily of the valley may not appear until spring.
• Peony may take 2 years to bloom well.
• Both are tough—if roots were viable, they'll recover.

Don't wait for "perfect" conditions. Get them in the ground now.