Peonies are highly coveted perennial additions to any landscape, prized for their lush, often fragrant blooms and remarkable longevity. Once established, these plants can thrive for decades, making the initial purchasing decision crucial for the garden’s future. To ensure a successful start, a buyer must carefully consider the physical form of the peony, the source of the purchase, and the indicators of a healthy specimen. This guidance focuses on acquiring peonies that lead to the most vigorous establishment and abundant flowering.
Peony Plant Forms: Bare Root vs. Container Grown
Peonies are primarily sold in two distinct forms: the dormant bare root and the actively growing container plant. Bare root peonies are the traditional way to purchase these perennials, consisting of a piece of the tuberous root system sold without soil, usually shipped in the fall. This method is preferred by specialty growers because handling the plant while dormant minimizes shock and simplifies shipping.
Bare root stock generally offers the widest selection of cultivars, including rare intersectional (Itoh) and tree peonies. Planting them in the autumn allows the root system to establish itself in the cool, moist soil before the spring growth push. Conversely, container-grown or potted peonies are sold in soil, typically during the spring and summer when they are actively growing.
A potted plant provides the advantage of immediate planting and visible foliage. However, container-grown plants tend to be more expensive than bare roots, and the selection is often limited to the most common varieties. Bare root peonies planted in the fall often establish more robustly because they adapt directly to the native soil without being constrained by a pot.
Primary Sources for Purchasing Peonies
The source of your peony purchase determines the selection, price, and quality assurance you receive. Online and specialty growers are the premier sources for those seeking specific or rare peony cultivars, offering the largest catalogs of herbaceous, tree, and Itoh types. These businesses rely on fall shipping to align with the plant’s natural dormancy cycle and often provide quality guarantees for their bare root stock.
Purchasing from a dedicated peony farm or specialist ensures the roots are handled correctly and are true to the variety name, which is important for high-value cultivars. Local nurseries and garden centers provide the benefit of immediate, in-person inspection of potted plants, allowing you to gauge the foliage health and size before purchase. Staff at these local sources can offer tailored advice concerning varieties that perform best in your specific regional climate.
Mass retailers and big box stores often feature pre-packaged bare roots at a lower price point than specialty vendors. While the cost is attractive, buyers must exercise caution, as these roots can suffer from poor storage conditions, leading to dehydration or mold. Mislabeling of varieties is more common in mass-market stock, and the root divisions may be smaller or less vigorous than those supplied by dedicated growers.
Evaluating Plant Health Before Purchase
A careful inspection of the plant material is necessary to ensure a successful purchase. When examining a bare root peony, the most telling indicator of health is the presence and number of “eyes,” the small, reddish or pink growth buds on the crown of the root. A high-quality herbaceous bare root division should have at least three to five visible eyes, as this count is associated with faster establishment and earlier flowering.
The root itself should feel firm and plump, indicating good nutrient storage and hydration. Any sign of mushiness, excessive mold, or a dry, shriveled appearance suggests the root has been improperly stored or is compromised and should be avoided. For potted peonies, the inspection shifts to the above-ground growth and the root system within the container.
Observe the foliage closely for any discoloration or spots that might indicate fungal issues, such as leaf spot or powdery mildew. The stems should appear sturdy and the leaves a vibrant green, free of pests. Gently check if the plant is root-bound by examining the drainage holes; if roots are circling tightly or emerging heavily from the bottom, the plant may experience transplant shock and require extra care.