Ode to the Peony - A short Update

So much interest....

So many 'Peony-Lovers'....

Here shortly some information about Growing Peonies:

....Peonies grow from two to four feet in height.

Support is often required for tall, double hybrids.

Peonies thrive in sunny location and well-drained soils,

tolerating a wide range of soil types.

Best growth is in soil with a pH range of 6,5 to 7,5, 

deep and rich in organic matter.....

For the US:

They are hardy from zone 8 to zone 2, with some exceptions.

read more......here

For example: It should be possible to grow peonies in Texas, zone 8

info for Maryanne from   Beadboardupcountry

and:

'How to grow peonies - even where it's warm'

...Peonies thrive in cooler climates, where they get pronounced winter chill.

But some will grow well in warmer climates.

All are also worth a try in dappled shade in zones 14-20.

There, give plants afternoon shade and ample water.....

read more......here 

(I'm confused with the US zones...!)

However,
In the South of Germany, rather cold winters, snow and ice, long frost period,
and then summer can be very hot, Peonies 'doing' very well
and are planted mostly in full sun in farmers and other gardens.

Here at our place in the Southwest of France, Dordogne:
'Sitting' on rocks - we have a very low PH, mainly alkaline and very little top soil,
and there is no way that we have a rich organic soil, but it is well-drained.
 The  peonies we have seem to be not too unhappy!
One of the tree peony we planted in half-shade, facing east, to protect it from the afternoon sun
which is very strong in our region, even in April and May,
but the morning sun is perfect.
The other tree peony, younger and still much smaller,
is facing south with full sun nearly throughout the whole day.
They never where feed specially, just here and there - sometimes,
they have not been watered regularly,
but - I TALK TO THEM and gently stroke them!!!

So, I only can recommend - just try it out yourself!
Be prepared for disappointments - but don't give up!
There will be wonderful surprises!

"Peonies and Old Silver"
by   Blooming Rose Musings