When you think of peonies, my guess is that you picture the big gorgeous blooms of a double peony.

But don’t make the mistake of thinking that’s the only type! Peonies come in six different forms that are recognized by the American Peony Association.

Which is your favorite? That’s the hard part.

Before we start this topic here’s the most important point… KNOW YOUR ANIMAL! Some animals love to chew plants and just about everything, other’s don’t touch them!

When it comes to plants there’s a spectrum of how toxic or non-toxic a plant can be.

After planting peonies, hopefully you’ve been watering well. Or better yet, hopefully Mother Nature has given you a nice soaking rain.

Either way, there’s one specific thing I want you to look for before you say good night to your peonies for the winter.

The first winter it can be a good idea to mulch your newly planted peony root. You can use a natural wood or bark, straw, shredded leaves, etc. for the mulch. This can help with the heaving soil during the freeze thaw cycle of the root’s first cold season.

A big thank you to Tanya for the questions that prompted this week’s email content.

How long can I wait to plant my roots once received?  And, what’s the best conditions to ‘hold’ them during that time?

I know it’s best to get them in when they arrive but that won’t happen this year because … well … “life.”

Whether you’re dividing your own peony or you are receving one in the mail doesn’t matter. If you’re planting a root this time of year it’s very important to get it in the ground the right way!

The eyes of the peony are the little white or pink buds that will become next year’s stems, leaves and flowers.

When planting, those eyes should point up toward the sky.