Landscape Notes: Peony, Paeonia Lactiflora Hybrids, is a stalwart of the perennial garden, it provides beauty that will last a lifetime. Substantial plants can easily stand alone but look grand surrounded by low-growing, fine textured perennials. Peonies have long lasting foliage that serves as a background filter, and support for later blooming perennials, such as Meadow Rue, Balloon Flower, and Japanese Anemone.

Exposure/Culture: Peony, Paeonia Lactiflora Hybrids, tolerate a wide pH range but are not worth growing in lean, dry soils. Their large flowers are almost too heavy for their stems to hold up. Deadhead to reduce weight or stake with grow-through supports or hoops in early spring. Fertilize in Spring when shoots emerge.

Other Notes: Peony, Paeonia Lactiflora Hybrids, can be divided in the fall after 8-10 years to renew the planting and soil. Plant the divisions so that the large pinkish buds are only 1-2 inches below the soil, spacing them 3 feet apart.