When should I move my peony?
Q When is the best time to move peonies and will they thrive in pots?
Sue and Elliot Marshall, Berkhamsted, Herts
A The best time of year to plant tree peonies is between about October and March.
You can do it any time during this period, but it is best to choose mild weather and avoid times when the ground is frozen or waterlogged, or likely to be soon afterwards. Herbaceous peonies are best moved in autumn, though it can be done in early spring if necessary.
Peonies do not suit long-term container cultivation. However, if it is necessary to grow them in pots, use soil-based potting compost, such as John Innes No3, and do not let the compost dry out.
The plants may not grow as well as they would in the ground, and if you can you should plant them out as soon as possible.
Before planting, dig plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost into the bottom of the hole and mix with the soil that will be used for back-filling.
Make the hole wide enough to take the rootball comfortably, and if the soil is quite compacted loosen it slightly to help the new roots to spread. Lift the peony carefully, retaining as much of the rootball as possible, and replant it immediately.
