Old Fashioned Garden Mix Seeds

Peonies are shipped as dormant bare-root divisions and it is important that they be planted promptly upon arrival. If you are not able to plant the root(s) upon arrival, store in a cool, dry, dark location for a day or two. It is a good idea to soak the root(s) an hour or so before planting. Soaking will hydrate the plants and reduces the stress associated with the drying of soil around the roots after planting. Peonies should be planted in a well-draining, organic rich soil that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Prior to planting, soil can be amended with compost or well-rotted mature to improve fertility and drainage. Loosen the soil to a depth of 30 cm (12 in) before planting. After loosening the soil, this is a good time to mix in 5-10 cm (2-4 in) of well-rotted manure, or compost. Peonies have thick tuberous main roots with a head-like crown. Sitting on top of the crown are white or pink-colored shoot buds or eyes (growing points). The eyes should not be placed more than 5 cm (2 in) below the soil surface. Loosen the soil and dig a hole two to three times as wide and deep as the root. It is recommended that you amend the soil with a generous amount of well-rotted manure or compost. Fertilizer, such as bone meal, can be added in the hole. Amounts will be listed in the directions on the container. Once the root is in position, back fill the hole with soil and lightly tamp the soil over the newly planted root to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil. The plants will grow large over time and should be spaced at least 1 m (3 ft) apart. Peonies are perennials and over winter. After the plant has died back it is time to cut the plant 2.5 cm (1 in) from the surface of the ground. This can be done before winter or in early Spring before new growth appears. Water needs: Generally plants require 2.5 cm (1 in) of water per week to be healthy. This can come from rain or self-watering. Deep and less frequent watering is best to promote long roots. More frequent water may be required in drought-like conditions. Not ready to plant? If you are not able to plant the root(s) for more than a day or two, open the package and check if the peat moss, or other packing material is moist. If it is barely damp, or dry, add a little room temperature water and close the package and place in a cool (not freezing), dark location. If longer, remove the root(s) and plant in a container with moistened potting mix and place in a cool (not freezing), dark location. Storing the roots for an extended period of time can reduce their viability.