How Deep to Plant a Tree Peony

Tree peonies are beautiful and popular flowering bushes that add striking colors to any garden. If you’re planning to grow tree peonies in your garden, you should learn how to properly plant them. One important factor in planting tree peonies is the depth at which you should place the root ball. The depth of planting is crucial to the successful growth of your tree peonies, and this guide will give you the information you need to ensure that they thrive in your garden.

Tree Peony Basics

Before we discuss how deep to plant your tree peony, let’s go over the basics of the plant. Tree peonies are deciduous shrubs that can grow up to six feet tall and six feet wide. They have large, showy blooms in a range of colors, from burgundy to white. These plants bloom in the spring and early summer, and their foliage turns a brilliant red or yellow in the fall.

Tree peonies prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They also require a lot of sunlight to grow properly. It’s best to plant tree peonies in the fall, after the leaves have dropped, or in the early spring, when new growth is just beginning.

The Right Depth for Planting Tree Peonies

When planting your tree peony, it’s important to get the depth just right. The depth will depend on the size and type of tree peony you are planting. Here are some guidelines:

If you are planting a bare-root tree peony, the graft union should be placed one to two inches below the soil surface. Make sure the soil is securely packed around the roots.

If you are planting a container-grown tree peony, the soil level in the pot should be level with the soil surface in your garden. When you transplant, remove the pot and loosen any tightly packed roots before planting.

If you are planting a tree peony with a woody stem, such as a tree form or multi-stemmed shrub, you should plant it slightly deeper, with the graft union four to six inches below the soil surface.

It’s important not to plant your tree peony too deeply, as this can cause the roots to rot. However, if you plant your tree peony too shallowly, the roots may dry out and the plant may not establish itself properly. Take care to get the depth just right.

Caring for Your Tree Peony

Once you’ve planted your tree peony, it’s important to take good care of it. Water it deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Mulch around the base of the plant to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Tree peonies also benefit from regular fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring, and apply a water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Prune your tree peony in the late fall or early spring to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Conclusion

Tree peonies are a beautiful addition to any garden, and with the right care and attention, they will thrive and bloom year after year. By planting your tree peony at the right depth, you will give it the best chance for success. Take the time to ensure that your tree peony is planted correctly, and you will be rewarded with a stunning display of flowers and foliage.