Who doesn’t love this time of year when the peonies are in full bloom, the temperatures climb and summer is peaking around the corner.  Peonies are a staple for backyard gardeners but from what I’ve learned they’re not so easy to get started.  Here are a few tips to help get these colorful blooms in your garden. 

Peonies are hearty plants that do great in our Chicago climate but they do take patience and a little practice.  First, find a full sun area and make sure to plant at the right time, which is fall! They can establish their roots and benefit from being in the ground during the long winter.  Plant no more than 2 inches below the soil. If planted to deep they will not bloom, I’m speaking from experience. OOPS!  Once planted make sure to mulch the area and water thoroughly.

Space is critical and planting a few feet apart will greatly benefit them. They need room to grow and planting to closely will lead to fungal diseases and limp stems.

Be patient!  It can take two years before they start blooming.  They require a little more work up front but once in bloom they thrive.   Every house we have lived has had well established peonies that come back year after year.  These pictures are proof of how magical they are but the key is getting them started!

This fall I will be planting peonies and using this neighbors house as an inspiration. These beauties (not mine) are a Glen Ellyn favorite! Perfectly planted, grown with patience and showing us that peonies are possible! Good luck 🙂