Peonies

About

Flaunting extravagant, paper-like blooms in late spring and early summer, peony plants exhibit a vast array of color combinations, and vibrant, lush foliage. Whether you're seeking the plentiful, sturdy foliage of a tree peony, the robust blooms of a bush variety or a treasured Itoh peony, Spring Hill peonies are sure to steal the show when made a part of your perennial garden . These perennials excel when planted in full sun to partial shade, and when they're established, they are astoundingly long lived. As peony plants have some varieties living over 100 years, you can plant with the confidence that your garden can be admired for generations to come. How to grow peony plants: The peony plant, bursting into bloom near Memorial Day, is one of the early entries into the summer garden -- and one of the most beautiful. So, how do you grow peony plants? These perennials are generally shipped in pots or as bare root tubers. Peonies should be planted in the fall, in an area that will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. Peonies are sun lovers, although they may appreciate a little protection from the sun if you live in Zone 8 or 9 . A peony bush can be very adaptable, but well-drained, slightly acidic soil is the best bet for their success. If your garden features heavy clay, amend with compost or a bit of loam to combat alkalinity and pooling water. The method for growing your peonies depends on the form in which you receive them — and on the type of peonies you're growing. Most peony plants belong to three common types: tree peonies, herbaceous peonies, or Itoh peonies. Tree peonies grow in a shrublike habit, with some varieties topping out at 7 feet, and they feature some of the largest flowers and fastest growth. Herbaceous peonies usually grow to a height of 2 to 3 feet and a spread of 2 to 4 feet, and are generally lower maintenance. Itoh peonies are hybrids, blending the perennial habit of herbaceous peonies with the larger flower and color range of