Perennial Flower

When to Plant Peonies

Long-lived perennial producing fragrant, lush blooms in late spring. Plants can live for 50-100 years.

Sun

Full sun (6+ hours)

Water

1 inch per week

Days to Harvest

365

Difficulty

beginner

Spacing

36"

Frost Tolerance

high

The Short Answer

Peonies are planted in fall, 6 weeks before your first frost date. They need winter cold to trigger their spring bloom. Enter your zip code on our homepage tool for exact dates.

How to Grow Peonies

Peonies are planted in fall — this is critical, as spring-planted peonies establish poorly. Plant bare-root divisions with the eyes (pink growing points) exactly 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Deeper planting is the #1 reason peonies fail to bloom. Once established, peonies resent disturbance and should not be moved unless absolutely necessary. They need winter cold (zones 3-8 are ideal) and don't perform well in the Deep South. Support heavy blooms with peony rings installed early in the season. A single plant can bloom for 50-100 years in the same spot — true garden heirlooms.

Fall Planting

Peonies are planted in fall, 6 weeks before your average first frost date. Plant 2" deep, 36" apart.

Growing Tips

Plant bare-root divisions in fall with eyes 1-2 inches below soil surface — deeper planting prevents blooming. Peonies need winter chill and don't perform well south of zone 8. Support heavy blooms with peony rings.

Companion Planting

Good companions:

Alliums Roses

Peonies Planting Dates by State

Click your state for peonies planting dates specific to your location:

Note: Planting dates are based on average frost dates from NOAA Climate Normals (30-year averages). Actual conditions vary year to year. Always check your local forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026