Things You'll Need:
- Bucket
- Compost
- Potting soil
- Spade
-
Step 1
Choose a place that receives at least partial sun, which means that if the area is shady for part of the day it is fine, but ideally the plant should receive three or more hours of sun daily. In early spring after the last frost, dig a hole approximately 8-inches-deep and 8 inches in diameter. Remove the soil from the hole and place it in a bucket. Sift through the soil in the bucket to remove any weeds or roots and break up clumps.
-
Step 2
Mix the bucket to include one-third ground dirt, one-third compost and one-third potting soil. This will amend the original soil into a nutrient-rich mixture that is ideal for your new peony. Potting soil contains many nutrients and additives that are good for bare root plants. You can use a soil conditioner additive instead of potting soil if you choose.
-
Step 3
Place the sprouting bare root peony in the hole, holding the base of the plant so that the roots are below ground level. Fill the hole in around the roots with the mixed soil from the bucket. Be very careful not to bind or crush the roots, just let the soil filter through to fill the hole. Soil can be placed around the sprouts--a general plan for the level of the soil is to leave the top 1/4 inch of sprout exposed. These sprouts will grow into strong stems that will hold your peony blooms.
-
Step 4
Tamp the soil down firmly around the base of the peony. To grow well a peony requires moisture, but also proper drainage to prevent the roots from rotting. By sifting and mixing the soil you have created a soil that will deliver the moisture needed and allow the rest to drain away.
-
Step 5
Water your sprouting bare root peony thoroughly and repeat watering every other day throughout the spring and into the summer. This first growing season is when the peony will develop its root base and prepare for winter dormancy.
