Buying peonies means investing in a perennial that lasts for decades. Here you will find peonies (Paeonia) as bare roots: herbaceous peonies, Itoh hybrids and varieties in orange, coral, pink, white, yellow and red. The best planting time in Switzerland is autumn, from September to November. They flower in May and June; many varieties are fragrant and make good cut flowers.
Peonies come with single, semi-double, anemone-form and fully double flowers. Among the best-known herbaceous peonies are 'Sarah Bernhardt' in pink and 'Festiva Maxima' in white with red flecks.
Orange and coral peonies are in high demand. 'Coral Charm' and 'Coral Sunset' open in a strong coral orange and fade paler as they go over. Itoh hybrids, a cross between herbaceous and tree peonies, also bring yellow to the border, for example 'Bartzella'. For a strong red, choose 'Karl Rosenfield'.
Peonies are best planted as bare roots from September to November. This lets them form new roots before winter. On the Swiss Plateau October is ideal, at higher altitudes September. Spring planting is possible, but the first flowers usually take longer to appear. Choose a sunny spot with at least six hours of sun. The soil should be fertile, deep and free-draining. Peonies dislike being moved, so choose the position carefully.
The most important point is planting depth. The red buds, known as eyes, should be no more than 3 to 5 cm below the soil surface. Peonies planted too deep will grow but often fail to flower for years. Leave around 80 to 100 cm between plants. Fully grown, most varieties reach 60 to 100 cm.
Peonies are fully hardy in Switzerland. After planting, they usually flower generously from the second or third year.
Cut the stems at bud stage, when the bud feels soft like a marshmallow. They will then open in the vase and last around a week. Leave enough foliage on each plant so it can build up strength for the following year.
Peonies go well with hardy geraniums, lady's mantle, iris and alliums, which extend the flowering season. After flowering, the dense foliage forms a calm green backdrop for lilies and summer perennials. You will find more ideas in the perennials collection.
