Most of the information found on growing peonies is based in the Northern Hemisphere so I will shed some light on growing them successfully in the Southern Hemisphere.
Choose Peony varieties that cope with a ‘warmer’ climate (they grow in Alaska hence this comment). Even though I say ‘warmer’ climate, they still require a dormant period of at least 30 to 45 days with an average temperature under 10 degrees Celsius. It is possible to add additional cold by covering them with ice cubes in the coldest part of your winter for a few weeks.
Do not plant them too deep, in our warmer zone I would
recommend planting the rhizome (brown sweet potato looking part) just under the soil but with the eyes (pink or white points) at soil level. Depending on the shape of your rhizome this is usually horizontal with the eyes facing upwards.
In the areas of South Africa that get cold winters but summers regularly over 30 degrees Celsius I would offer some shade at midday day or in the afternoon. Areas where only a few days are above 30 degrees full sun is perfect.
Some areas of South Africa have fairly acidic soils and, in this case, a liberal application of lime will benefit the plant hugely. If you are unsure of your soil pH have a look at your hydrangeas if they are predominately pink flowering, then you have alkaline soil and this step isn’t necessary.
Water at the base of the plant especially if watering in the afternoon to avoid wet leaves at night which create a playground for fungus. Do not let them completely dry out in the winter but don’t over water.
Feed twice a year with 2:3:4 in August/September and January/February and add some compost, do this around the crown not directly on top of the plant. Do not mulch over the crown as this warms the growing environment and is a haven for fungal spores.
Cut back in early winter once the leaves have completely died back to keep the area clean thus reducing the chance of fungus developing when they emerge in spring. I prefer to not add the leaves to your compost heap due to potential fungal spores but rather to discard them with your refuse.
Have fun with these exciting and rewarding plants and I must warn you they are addictive!
If you are interested in getting your hands on some rhizomes, please follow the link below to place your orders. https://wa.me/c/27733665377
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