Moving a mature peony, whether for relocation or for dividing the root mass to create new plants, requires careful execution to ensure the perennial’s survival. Peonies, known for their longevity, respond well to this disturbance only when proper technique is used to protect the delicate crown and extensive root system. Successfully digging up the plant allows for a critical inspection of the roots and prepares the plant for its new location, setting the foundation for years of future blooming.
Optimal Timing and Necessary Tools
The ideal window for digging up peony plants is in late summer or early fall, typically from September through October, once the plant has finished its seasonal growth cycle and is entering dormancy. This timing is beneficial because the plant’s energy is stored in the roots rather than the foliage, allowing it to better tolerate the stress of being moved. This also gives the roots time to establish themselves before the ground freezes for winter.
A few specific tools will make the excavation process easier and less damaging to the plant. You will need a sharp, sturdy spade or a spading fork, which is often preferred for its ability to loosen the soil without slicing through the thick, fleshy roots. Have a tarp or a wheelbarrow ready to hold the excavated root ball and soil, along with clean, sharp pruning shears to cut back the foliage. A garden hose will also be necessary later for cleaning the root mass to fully reveal the plant’s structure.
Detailed Steps for Excavation
The first step in preparing the peony for removal is to cut the foliage back to a height of about two to three inches above the soil line. This action reduces stress on the plant and makes it easier to see the base of the stems, known as the crown, which is where the new buds, or “eyes,” are located. Once the stems are cut, locate the crown and mark a wide perimeter around the plant before you begin to dig.
Peonies develop extensive, brittle root systems, so start digging a minimum of 12 to 18 inches away from the center of the plant to avoid slicing through the main storage roots. Drive your spade or spading fork straight down into the soil to create a deep, circular trench around the plant’s perimeter. Work slowly and methodically around the circle, using the tool to gently pry the soil loose and sever the distant, fine feeder roots.
Once the soil is loosened all the way around, begin to work the tool beneath the root mass, angling it toward the center of the plant at about a 45-degree angle. Use the leverage of the tool to rock the entire clump gently back and forth to loosen it from the earth. The root ball of a mature peony can be surprisingly heavy, so lift it carefully and slowly out of the ground, taking care not to tear the root mass or damage the crown.
Cleaning and Preparing the Root Ball
With the entire root mass successfully lifted, the next immediate step is to remove the large clumps of soil clinging to the fleshy roots. Start by gently shaking off the excess dirt, which helps reveal the true size and shape of the root system. For a more thorough inspection, use a garden hose on a low-pressure setting to wash away the remaining soil from the roots and the crown. Cleaning is an important step because it fully exposes the crown and the pink or white “eyes,” which are the dormant buds that will produce next year’s stems and flowers. Clean roots allow you to trim off any damaged, stringy, or rotted parts using a clean, sharp knife, which promotes vigorous growth once the plant is replanted.