SHREVEPORT, La. – Fall is the perfect time to get peonies in the ground, according to Akins Nursery owner Jennifer McGimsey.
“Peonies are such a classic southern blooming plant,” McGimsey said. “And while many people think of them as bulbs, they’re actually rhizomes with a root system — so you’re planting a young plant rather than just a bulb.”
McGimsey said planting peonies correctly is key to long-term success. One of the most important steps is avoiding planting them too deep. Instead, she recommends building a small berm — a raised mound of soil — before planting.
“Peonies need exposure to cooler weather to form blooms, and since we don’t always get that cold here, giving them a little lift in a berm helps,” she explained.
Location is another crucial factor. While many flowers thrive in full sun, peonies require protection from the afternoon heat.
“If you plant a peony in our full sun, it’s going to burn up,” McGimsey said. “You’ll have the most success planting them in a berm against the side of your house, where you’ll get afternoon shade.”
With the right preparation, McGimsey said gardeners can look forward to beautiful peony blooms in seasons to come.
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