Peony

Peonies are an old time favorite, easy to grow and flowers freely in the spring and early summer.

My career in horticulture began in 1962 and Peonies were then, as they still are an item to be sold during the spring and fall seasons.

During that decade and for several to follow they were available as a bare root item only and were available at a very modest price.

Today, with the exception of mail order catalogs, Peonies are usually sold in containers, normally in one or two gallon pots at fairly steep prices.

During those early years my experience with this beautiful perennial was limited to only four varieties and very seldom would one see more than these standards being offered anywhere.

Colors range from red to white along with yellow and certain bicolor combinations with the herbaceous species reaching a height of twenty four inches to a little over four feet.

Woody species or Tree Peonies can reach heights of four to as much as nine feet.

Consider giving Peonies a chance to thrive in your garden, as once planted, they will be there for your enjoyment for many years to come if you follow the basics of good Peony culture.

Remember to plant them in full sun with the eyes of herbaceous species covered by no more than one inch of garden soil.

Today you will be pleased to know that well over one hundred varieties are offered by some peony specialists but choose wisely and seek help in determining the best ones for your area.