Peony Root - Avis Varner: PREORDER NOW! (Delivery is expected towards February 2025)

Cold Hours Requirement:
This peony variety requires an average amount of cold weather exposure (chill hours) to bloom successfully.

Important Note:
Please soak and plant your peony roots on the same day.

Root Information:
•    Each packet contains 1 peony root
•    Size: 3-5 eyes
•    Imported from Holland

A printed peony care guide will be included with every order to help ensure your peonies grow healthy and strong.

Climate Considerations for Peonies:
•    Ideal Conditions: Peonies thrive in cold winters with temperatures between 2°C and 5°C for 30-60 days.
•    Blooming in Warmer Climates: In warmer climates, mid to late-season varieties may bloom, but not as reliably. Early blooming varieties are better for warmer areas.

Peony Dormancy:
Peony stems and leaves naturally die back in autumn and will reemerge in spring. This is a normal process.

Herbaceous Peonies:
These peonies die back in autumn and regrow in spring. Trim dead stems in fall to prevent pests and keep your garden tidy.

Geographical Suitability in Southern Africa:
Peonies grow well in colder regions, like the Highveld, eastern Free State, KZN Midlands, and higher inland areas of the Western Cape.

Planting and Location:
•    Plant roots as soon as you receive them.
•    Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil and good airflow.
•    Peonies prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil.

Planting Depth:
Plant roots with the eyes no more than 3-5 cm below the soil surface.

Soil Enrichment:
Peonies thrive in fertile soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure.

Soaking Bare Roots:
If dry, soak roots for 2-4 hours before planting.

Watering:
Water immediately after planting to settle the soil. In spring, water every two weeks if it’s dry.

Fertilizing:
Use a bulb fertilizer with a 10-20-20 or 5-10-10 ratio.

Blooming Timeline:
Peonies take 3-4 years to fully bloom. Expect 1-2 blooms in the first year, with more flowers each year as the plant matures.

Growth Progression:
Your peony will grow larger each year, producing more flowers, especially after 6 years.

Annual Pruning:
Cut back peony stems in early autumn or after the first frost to remove dead parts and prepare for next year's growth.