Moving and Dividing
Moving and Dividing
Once your peony is well-established in your garden you may wish to divide it. Some peonies can grow to about 90cm in diameter. It is a popular myth that peonies cannot be moved; if done properly then your peony will respond well to being divided and/or moved.
Wait until October, when your peony is dormant. Cut back any dead foliage to about 2cm above the ground. Being careful not to damage any ‘eyes’ or buds that are developing at or just below surface level, dig up as big a clump as possible. You can divide your peony with either a sharp spade or using a pruning knife (depending on the size of the plant). Ensure that each piece of root that you divide has at least 3-5 ‘eyes’ or buds. Whether you are moving or dividing your peony, plant it as soon as possible after lifting it to minimise disruption to the root system; ideally plant it the same day.
Sometimes your peony will not flower the following year. As long as you have planted it correctly, don’t worry this is normal and your peony is simply adjusting to its new position; it will flower in future years.