Peony 'Duchess de Nemours'

Planting your Peony 'Duchess de Nemours':

• Despite the myths that surround them, peonies are easy to grow.
• As a hardy perennial, the plant dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
• Ideally, plant in the autumn while the ground is still warm or in the spring as it warms up. Plant in full sun or light shade in heavy, well-draining, fertile soil. There’s no need to add additional compost unless your soil is really poor.
• Dig a planting hole large enough to spread out roots without bending them. Set crown with buds 3-5cm (1-2in) below ground-level. Backfill with soil and water in thoroughly.
• Peonies can tolerate drought quite well, but they need plenty of water if they are to flower well.
• Plant your peonies in soil that drains well. Clay is fine as long as it doesn't stay wet.

Aftercare Advice for Peony 'Duchess de Nemours':

• Mulch lightly with well-rotted manure every spring - although not too deep as this will bury the crown. At the same time, apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser around the base of the plant.
• The flower stems may not be strong enough to keep the often-heavy flamboyant flowers upright and staking is often required.
• Peonies seldom need to be divided or moved, but if necessary, it should be carried out only in the autumn.

Pruning your Peony:

• If you want really big flowers, de-bud the side shoots in April/May with a sharp knife. Remove spent flower heads after blooming to keep your peony pretty all summer long.
• Dead stems can be removed in late autumn.