Though dividing peonies is not required, it can increase bloom production, reduce diseases and provide more peony plants free! If you choose to divide your peonies, it needs to be done this time of year.
Begin by cutting the stems just above the soil surface. Dig up the entire root system and remove the soil from the roots. Divide the root clump into small sections using a sharp knife. Ensure each section has three to five buds as well as healthy roots. It may take a couple of years for the divided peony plants to return to full bloom productivity. If there are fewer buds on each division it may take three years for the plant to bloom at all.
Choose a planting location that receives sunlight for at least half of the day. Dig a hole large enough to fit the roots of the divided peonies so the buds will be covered by one to two-inches of soil. Plants buried too deep may not flower. Backfill and water thoroughly. Space dwarf peonies at least two-feet apart and standard peonies four-feet apart.
The winters in Kansas have periods of freezing and thawing which can be destructive to plants. Soil that freezes and thaws repeatedly can uproot plants that are not deeply rooted. This is called “heaving.” To protect the newly divided peonies, add a layer of straw, leaves or compost after the soil freezes. (Cynthia Domenghini)
Begin by cutting the stems just above the soil surface. Dig up the entire root system and remove the soil from the roots. Divide the root clump into small sections using a sharp knife. Ensure each section has three to five buds as well as healthy roots. It may take a couple of years for the divided peony plants to return to full bloom productivity. If there are fewer buds on each division it may take three years for the plant to bloom at all.
Choose a planting location that receives sunlight for at least half of the day. Dig a hole large enough to fit the roots of the divided peonies so the buds will be covered by one to two-inches of soil. Plants buried too deep may not flower. Backfill and water thoroughly. Space dwarf peonies at least two-feet apart and standard peonies four-feet apart.
The winters in Kansas have periods of freezing and thawing which can be destructive to plants. Soil that freezes and thaws repeatedly can uproot plants that are not deeply rooted. This is called “heaving.” To protect the newly divided peonies, add a layer of straw, leaves or compost after the soil freezes. (Cynthia Domenghini)
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