If your peonies didn’t bloom as expected this year it’s possible they need to be divided. Peonies don’t require dividing often, but doing so periodically can promote healthier plants. You also get the benefit of increasing your plant collection.
Cut stems just above the soil surface. Dig up the entire root system and remove the soil from the roots. Divide the root clump into small sections using a sharp knife. Each section should have three to five buds and healthy roots. Sections with fewer buds will take longer to bloom.
Choose a planting location that receives sunlight for at least half of the day. Dig a hole large enough that the roots and buds will be covered by one to two-inches of soil. Plants buried too deep may not flower. Backfill and water thoroughly. Space dwarf peonies at least two-feet apart and standard peonies four-feet apart.
It may take a couple of years for the divided plants to return to full bloom productivity. Kansas’ winters have periods of freezing and thawing which can uproot plants. Protect newly divided peonies, by covering them with a layer of straw, leaves or compost after the soil freezes.
