Peonies are among the most cherished garden plants in Europe, known for their lush blooms, rich fragrance, and ability to thrive for decades with the right care. If you're wondering how to plant peonies for lasting success, this guide will walk you through every stage — from preparation to blooming.
Whether you're working with a cottage garden or a formal landscape, peonies offer timeless beauty and seasonal joy. This complete step-by-step guide is tailored for European climates, helping you get the best results whether you're planting in autumn or spring.
Ready to get started? Explore our full peonies categories for varieties perfect for your garden.
Why Planting Peonies Is Worth the Effort
While planting peonies might require a little patience at first, the long-term rewards are more than worth it. One of the biggest advantages is their remarkable lifespan — once established, peonies can bloom beautifully in the same spot for 50 years or more with minimal care.
Besides their longevity, peonies offer exceptional aesthetic value. Their large, ruffled blooms come in a wide range of colors — from soft pastels to bold reds — and their foliage adds elegance even when not in flower. Many varieties also offer a captivating fragrance, making them a joy to cut and bring indoors.
When considering types, gardeners can choose from three main categories:
- Herbaceous Peonies: These die back in winter and reemerge each spring.
- Tree Peonies: Woody-stemmed varieties with large flowers and early bloom times.
- ITOH Peonies: Crosses between herbaceous and tree types, offering strong stems and extended blooming..
Whether you're planting bare root peonies or potted ones, investing the time to do it properly will reward you with decades of spectacular blooms and seasonal beauty.
When to Plant Peony: The Best Time of Year
Timing is crucial when learning how to plant peony roots for long-lasting success. In most parts of Europe, the best time to plant peonies is during the autumn months, from September through November. This allows roots to establish before winter dormancy and ensures strong spring growth.
Autumn planting is ideal because the soil is still warm, providing the perfect conditions for root development. However, if autumn planting isn’t possible, spring is considered a second-best option. While spring-planted peonies might take slightly longer to bloom, they can still thrive with proper care.
Here’s a quick guide based on USDA and RHS growing zones commonly used across the EU:
- Zones 4–5: Plant by early October
- Zones 6–8: Aim for late September to late October
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Zone 9: You can plant up until mid-November
This approach ensures that peonies get a head start before colder weather sets in.
Explore our seasonal planting calendar for peonies to find the best time for your region. Don’t forget to take advantage of our bare root peonies autumn deals for fresh, high-quality plants delivered at just the right time.
Choosing and Preparing Peony Roots
Understanding Bare Root Peonies
When it comes to planting bare root peonies, many gardeners prefer this method over container-grown plants. But what exactly are bare root peonies?
Bare root peonies are dormant, mature peony plants shipped without soil. They typically consist of thick, tuber-like roots with visible pink or white eyes (buds) that will develop into stems. These roots are strong and resilient, making them ideal for establishing quickly when planted at the right time of year.
Because they’re shipped in a dormant state, they’re easier to handle, ship, and plant — with fewer issues related to transplant shock.
You can browse our premium selection in the bare root peonies product category.
How to Store Peony Roots Before Planting
Sometimes, planting may be delayed due to weather or scheduling. If that happens, proper storage of peony roots is essential to maintain viability.
Keep peony roots in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated space — ideally between 4–10°C (39–50°F). Avoid excessive moisture to prevent mold, but don’t let them dry out completely. If they arrive wrapped in peat moss or wood shavings, leave them in their packaging until you’re ready to plant.
Check roots every few days to ensure they remain firm and free from rot.
Where to Plant Peonies
Selecting the Right Spot
Location is everything when deciding where to plant peonies. These sun-loving perennials perform best in areas that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Morning sun is ideal to help dry dew and reduce disease risk.
Avoid planting too close to trees or large shrubs, as peonies don’t like competition for nutrients and root space. Proper air circulation is important, especially in humid climates, so give your plants plenty of room — about 90 cm (3 feet) apart is ideal.
Wind protection is another consideration. While peonies are hardy, their tall blooms can be damaged by strong gusts, so choose a semi-sheltered area when possible.
Healthy peonies begin with a smart location — your blooms will thank you for it.
Soil Preparation for Peonies
Soil quality plays a major role in how successful your peonies will be. Before planting, spend time preparing the ground.
Start by choosing a well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils. If needed, improve drainage by mixing in coarse sand or perlite.
Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and boost nutrient content. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with nitrogen, as this can lead to poor flowering.
When learning how to plant peony roots, digging a generous hole — about 30–40 cm deep — and loosening the soil at the base helps promote healthy root development.
How to Plant Peony Roots
One of the most common mistakes gardeners make is misunderstanding how deep to plant peonies. The correct depth is crucial for flowering success, especially in climates across Europe.
When planting bare root peonies, the small pink or white buds (called "eyes") should be positioned about 3 to 5 cm below the soil surface. This shallow planting depth is essential — if you plant the root too deep, your peony may not bloom for years, or possibly never bloom at all. On the other hand, planting too shallow can expose the root to drying out and frost damage.
So, remember: 3–5 cm deep, measured from the soil surface to the top of the highest bud. Use a ruler to be precise if needed.
Proper depth ensures the peony receives enough chill during winter and breaks dormancy correctly in spring. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
Step-by-Step: How to Plant Peony Roots
Planting bare root peonies correctly from the start will set you up for many years of fragrant, spectacular blooms. Below is a clear 10-step guide on how to plant peony roots, with each phase broken down for clarity and precision.
Step 1 – Choose the Right Location
Before you even touch a trowel, select a sunny spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Peonies love sun and dislike overcrowding, so choose an open space with good air circulation and minimal root competition from nearby trees or shrubs.
Step 2 – Prepare the Soil
Great soil equals great peonies. Start by loosening the soil to a depth of about 30–40 cm. Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the ground, and ensure the pH is close to neutral — between 6.5 and 7.0. Avoid soggy or compacted soil.
Step 3 – Unpack and Inspect the Bare Root Peonies
Once your order arrives, gently remove the packaging and inspect your bare root peonies. The roots should be firm, slightly moist (not soggy), and have visible buds or “eyes.” Trim away any damaged or excessively dry portions before planting.
Step 4 – Dig the Planting Hole
Dig a hole about 30 cm wide and 30 cm deep. Loosen the bottom of the hole to help the roots establish easily. Create a small mound in the center of the hole to support the root and allow buds to sit at the correct height.
Step 5 – Position the Peony Root Correctly
Place the peony on the mound with the buds facing upward. Remember the rule: the eyes should be 3 to 5 cm below the soil surface. This ensures proper chilling in winter and strong blooming in future years.
Step 6 – Backfill and Firm the Soil
Gently backfill the hole with prepared soil, lightly pressing down as you go to remove air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too much, but make sure the plant is stable.
Step 7 – Water Thoroughly
Give your newly planted peony a deep watering immediately after planting. This helps settle the soil around the roots and starts the process of hydration and establishment.
Step 8 – Apply a Light Mulch (Optional)
In colder regions, apply a light layer of organic mulch like straw or shredded bark to protect young roots during the first winter. Avoid placing mulch directly on top of the crown to prevent rot.
Step 9 – Label the Planting Site
Mark your planting site with a durable label so you don’t accidentally disturb it. This is especially useful in autumn when above-ground growth isn’t visible.
Step 10 – Monitor and Maintain
Check regularly for moisture and signs of growth. Don’t worry if you don’t see much action until spring — peonies often take time to settle. Avoid fertilizing until the plant is actively growing in the following season.
By following these steps on how to plant peony roots, you’ll be giving your plants the best chance to thrive. Whether you're planting in borders or pots, proper setup ensures years of stunning blooms and easy care.
Aftercare and First-Year Tips
Once you’ve planted your peony, proper peony care in the first year is essential for healthy establishment and long-term blooms. While peonies are famously low-maintenance once settled, they do require a bit of attention early on.
Watering
After planting, keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy. In the first few weeks, water every 5–7 days depending on weather. Once established, peonies are drought-tolerant, but consistent watering in their first growing season helps the roots settle.
Fertilization
Avoid fertilizing immediately after planting. Wait until spring, when new shoots appear. Then, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with low nitrogen to support root and flower development. Overfeeding can lead to lush foliage but few blooms — a common mistake in care of peonies.
Pruning
In the first year, don’t cut back green foliage unless it's diseased or damaged. The leaves feed the root system. In late autumn, after the foliage yellows, you can trim the plant to ground level to prevent disease and prepare it for dormancy.
Transplanting Caution
Avoid moving your peony within the first two to three years. These plants dislike disturbance and may stop blooming if relocated too soon. Let them build strength in their original spot.
Final Tip
Peonies are a test of patience, but well worth it. Some may not bloom their first year — this is normal. Focus on root development, and enjoy the spectacular results in seasons to come.
For a full guide on seasonal care, visit our peony care guide.
Common Mistakes When Planting Peonies
Even experienced gardeners can struggle with how to plant peony roots successfully. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes that can prevent your peonies from thriving — and how to avoid them:
- Planting Too Deep: This is the number one reason peonies don’t bloom. The buds (eyes) should be only 3–5 cm below the surface. Deeper planting can delay or completely prevent flowering.
- Choosing a Shady Spot: Peonies need at least 6 hours of full sun daily. Planting in partial or full shade can lead to poor growth and very few flowers. Always choose a bright, open location.
- Overwatering: Newly planted peonies need moisture, but soggy soil leads to rot. Water moderately and ensure the soil drains well. Never let the roots sit in waterlogged ground.
- Poor Drainage: Heavy clay or compacted soils trap water. If your garden has poor drainage, amend the soil with compost and sand, or plant your peony in a raised bed.
- Planting Near Walls or Fences: Walls may block airflow and cause heat buildup or fungal issues. Allow at least 50 cm between peonies and vertical surfaces for proper air circulation.
- Crowding Plants Too Close: Peonies need space to breathe. Crowding can cause mildew, poor flowering, and nutrient competition. Always follow spacing guidelines for mature size.
- Fertilizing Too Soon or Too Much: Adding fertilizer during planting can burn young roots. Wait until the first signs of active spring growth before feeding.
Avoiding these common pitfalls will give your peonies the best chance to thrive and bloom for decades to come.
Conclusion: Enjoy a Lifetime of Peony Blooms
Peonies are a timeless addition to any garden — fragrant, long-living, and stunning in full bloom. Learning how to plant peonies correctly is simple when you follow the right steps: choose quality bare roots, plant at the correct depth, and ensure proper sunlight and drainage. With just a bit of care, your peony plants will reward you with decades of beauty.
Shop Peony Varieties for Your Garden
Ready to get started? Explore our full range of peonies for every garden style. From bare root peonies to vibrant Tree and ITOH hybrids, and from classic pink and red to elegant white — there's something for every taste and space. Browse our peony product categories and bring timeless beauty to your garden.
FAQs on Planting Peonies
Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about how to plant peonies, tailored for European gardeners.
When is the best time to plant peonies?
The best time to plant peonies is in autumn — from September to November — when soil is still workable but temperatures are cooling. This allows roots to establish before winter. In warmer climates (zone 9), planting can extend into mid-November. Check our seasonal planting calendar for specific EU guidance.
How deep should I plant peony roots?
Peony roots should be planted with the pink or red buds (called eyes) about 3–5 cm below the soil surface. Planting too deep can prevent flowering, while too shallow may expose roots to frost. Use a ruler to ensure accuracy when planting.
How do I plant bare root peonies properly?
Start by soaking the roots for 1–2 hours before planting. Dig a wide hole, place the bare root peony with eyes facing up, and backfill with amended soil. Firm gently, water thoroughly, and add mulch. Follow our full step-by-step planting guide for peonies for details.
What is the best soil type for planting peonies?
Peonies grow best in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.5–7.0. Avoid clay-heavy or waterlogged soil. Improve poor soil by adding compost and sand. Proper soil preparation is essential for long-term health and bloom success.
Can I plant peonies in spring instead of autumn?
Yes, but autumn planting is ideal. Spring planting (March–April) is possible, especially for container-grown plants, but roots may need more time to establish. First-year blooms may be delayed. If you're unsure, visit our bare root peonies autumn deals for best options.
How do I prepare the planting site for peonies?
Choose a sunny, open spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight. Avoid areas near large tree roots or walls. Improve soil with organic matter, and make sure drainage is good. Spacing is important — check our planting tips section for full guidelines.
Can I plant peonies in containers or pots?
Yes, you can grow peonies in containers, especially dwarf or compact varieties. Choose a deep pot (at least 45 cm), ensure good drainage, and use light, rich soil. Learn more in our container gardening guide for peonies.
Should I water peony roots immediately after planting?
Absolutely. After planting, water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets around the roots. For the next few weeks, keep the soil slightly moist but never soggy. Overwatering can lead to rot, especially in heavy soils.
Why aren’t my newly planted peonies blooming?
The most common reasons include planting too deep, insufficient sunlight, or lack of maturity. Newly planted bare root peonies may take 1–2 years to bloom. For more troubleshooting, check out our peony bloom issues resource.
How far apart should I plant peony roots?
Plant peonies about 75–90 cm apart to allow for mature growth and proper airflow. This spacing prevents mildew and supports large, healthy blooms over time.