How to plant and care for peonies?

Peony has many nicknames, such as Jiangli, Licao, Lanweichun, Yurong, Lishi, Moguhua, Heiqianyi, etc. Its flowering period is usually from May to June every year. It is famous for its rich varieties and diverse colors. Let’s take a look at how to plant and care for peonies.

1. Planting time of peony

Heze area: late August to late September (from the beginning of summer to the autumnal equinox). Yangzhou area: late September to early November (Autumnal Equinox to Beginning of Winter).

General practice: Usually planted in combination with division.

2. Planting specifications of peony

For ornamental cultivation, it is recommended to use a plant spacing of 1 meter × 1 meter and a "T" shape arrangement to make even and reasonable use of the land. The "square" arrangement is convenient for field management and observation and recording. The planting hole should be about 35cm deep and 18cm in diameter at the top, and should be narrow at the top and wide at the bottom.

3. Planting methods of peony

Fertilization: Apply well-rotted dry manure or cake fertilizer to the bottom of the hole and mix it evenly with the subsoil.

Prevention of diseases and pests: Treat the peony seedlings with a mixture of methyl thiophanate and methyl isothioate before planting.

Planting tips: Hold the peony seedling and place it in the hole with the roots spread out. When the hole is half filled with soil, shake and lift the seedling to ensure that the roots are closely integrated with the soil.

Planting depth: Make sure the buds are level with the ground, avoid planting too deep or too shallow.

Watering: Water in time after planting according to soil moisture.

4. How to propagate peony

Division method: the easiest and most widely used method.

Seeding method: used for breeding different varieties, producing rootstocks for grafted peonies and producing medicinal materials.

Cutting method: Choose a place with high terrain and good drainage, use sterilized river sand or vermiculite as the substrate, and maintain suitable temperature and humidity after cutting.

Root insertion method: Use the broken roots during division, cut them into root segments and insert them into the soil.

Layering method: Introduce the young shoots into the pot in spring, gradually fill with soil, and keep it moist until roots take root.

Tissue culture: Use plant sterile culture technology to quickly propagate peony.

5. Maintenance points of peony

Temperature: Peony likes warmth and is cold-resistant, has strong adaptability, and can grow in extreme climatic conditions.

Light: Sufficient light is needed during the growing period, and appropriate shade during the flowering period can extend the viewing period.

Soil: The soil layer must be deep, loose, and well-drained, and neutral or slightly acidic soil is suitable.

Water: It likes dry environment and is not tolerant to waterlogging. Pay attention to drainage to prevent root rot.

In short, by following these planting and maintenance methods, peonies can thrive in suitable conditions and show their gorgeous colors and elegant posture.