Discover simple tips to boost your peony’s flower power—timing, planting depth, and a few smart tricks that make all the difference.
Plant at the Correct Depth
Most important tip!
Peony “eyes” (buds on the root) should sit just 1–2 inches below the soil surface.
Too deep = no blooms.
Choose a Sunny Spot
Peonies need 6–8 hours of full sun daily.
Less sun = fewer and weaker blooms.
Fertilize Lightly in Early Spring
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer when new shoots appear.
Avoid heavy feeding, which can encourage foliage over flowers.
Too much nitrogen = lots of leaves, few flowers.
Avoid Transplanting or Disturbing Them
Peonies don’t like being moved. Once planted, they take 2–3 years to settle and bloom fully.
Leave them alone = more flowers over time.
Support the Stems
Heavy blooms often flop—especially after rain. Use plant rings or supports early in the season to keep flowers upright and visible.
Deadhead Spent Flowers
Remove faded blooms promptly to redirect energy to root strength (and not seed production).
Helps with next year’s bloom power.
Cut Back in Fall
After the first frost, cut back all foliage to ground level to prevent disease and help the plant store energy for next spring.