Choose a sunny site with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight
Plant in well-drained soil with good air circulation
Set bare-root peonies with eyes 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface
Space plants 3 to 4 feet apart
Plant in fall for best establishment
Water deeply after planting
Keep soil evenly moist during the first growing season
Avoid overwatering and soggy soil
Mulch lightly, keeping mulch away from the crown
Do not plant too deeply
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
Remove spent blooms after flowering
Cut back foliage to ground level in fall after frost
Stake heavy-flowering varieties if needed
Divide only when necessary, in early fall
Protect new plantings from rodents and harsh winter conditions
Avoid frequent transplanting
Monitor for botrytis, ants, and other pests
Leave established plants undisturbed for best blooming
Provide support for large blooms during wet weather