Post by Becky Mulheron on Apr 18, 2023 14:16:57 GMT
Hi Everyone,
I have been germinating peony seeds for the last two years in raised/ protected germination beds. I believe it’s time to move my seedlings this fall into a long term in-ground set up where they can locate until flowering/ future evaluation. I was wondering what other people use for spacing between seedlings (I have a mixture of tree, hybrids and species). For transplanting mature roots, the general rule is 3-4 feet. This seems overkill for seedlings but may aid with airflow. Does anyone have any suggestions or ideas based on prior trial and error. I want to make sure I create an area that has enough space for future years of hybridizing. I am also curious if people have found protection of seedlings with a fence a benefit. I do have rabbits and deer in the area and the site will be located further from the house. I haven’t noticed any issues with my peonies closer to the house. All suggestions welcome!
Becky (Vermont: zone 5b, loam soil/ well draining, pH 7.2-7.4)
Information gathered from APS website:
The Physical Location
Selecting a Site: Space & Drainage
• Plant peonies well away from other shrubs and trees, as the roots from these plants will compete and cause poor growth. Especially avoid black walnut trees, which produce soil toxins that prevent nearby competition. Lilacs are also problematic, as they use water and nutrients that are required by peonies.
• Avoid planting peonies where water may pool at any time of the year.
• A high position in the garden is preferred for drainage and air movement.
• Avoid planting along walls that become overly heated during the summer months.
• Peonies require dormancy in order to prosper. Planting where winter temperatures are low enough to complete dormancy is important. USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8 are generally acceptable for growing peonies.
I have been germinating peony seeds for the last two years in raised/ protected germination beds. I believe it’s time to move my seedlings this fall into a long term in-ground set up where they can locate until flowering/ future evaluation. I was wondering what other people use for spacing between seedlings (I have a mixture of tree, hybrids and species). For transplanting mature roots, the general rule is 3-4 feet. This seems overkill for seedlings but may aid with airflow. Does anyone have any suggestions or ideas based on prior trial and error. I want to make sure I create an area that has enough space for future years of hybridizing. I am also curious if people have found protection of seedlings with a fence a benefit. I do have rabbits and deer in the area and the site will be located further from the house. I haven’t noticed any issues with my peonies closer to the house. All suggestions welcome!
Becky (Vermont: zone 5b, loam soil/ well draining, pH 7.2-7.4)
Information gathered from APS website:
The Physical Location
Selecting a Site: Space & Drainage
• Plant peonies well away from other shrubs and trees, as the roots from these plants will compete and cause poor growth. Especially avoid black walnut trees, which produce soil toxins that prevent nearby competition. Lilacs are also problematic, as they use water and nutrients that are required by peonies.
• Avoid planting peonies where water may pool at any time of the year.
• A high position in the garden is preferred for drainage and air movement.
• Avoid planting along walls that become overly heated during the summer months.
• Peonies require dormancy in order to prosper. Planting where winter temperatures are low enough to complete dormancy is important. USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8 are generally acceptable for growing peonies.