How to grow Peony in the UK
Paeonia
Peony (Paeonia) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Plant shallow — buried too deep, they sulk for years. Sarah Bernhardt is a classic pink. This guide covers when and how to sow Peony, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Moderate
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Peony
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct Plant | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant at the same depth as the pot
- Spacing
- 30–60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Plant container-grown stock spring or autumn; divide established clumps in spring
- Growing
- Water well the first season until established; mulch in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut back faded foliage in late autumn or early spring; divide every 3–4 years
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on new shoots; otherwise robust
Companion planting for Peony
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Peony this year
Add Peony to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Peony FAQs
How much sun does Peony need?
Peony prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Peony easy to grow?
Moderate. Plant shallow — buried too deep, they sulk for years. Sarah Bernhardt is a classic pink.