Q.How much time to get peonies replanted
Hello, today it’s 11/4/2018 here in Southeastern Wisconsin. I need to transplant one Peony completely. Half of it will be replanted on the same property as soon as I dig it. The other half will go to my daughter for replanting at her house. She might not be able to replant it the same day, but the next day at the latest. I’n sure it is dormant right now.
can this be done, and if so, how would I do it ? Can I put it in a cardboard box with dirt attached. Also I was just going to split it right down the middle to make two halves. Can someone in the know please help me to understand what to do ?
Thanks
There are many YouTube videos on dividing peonies. Fall is the best time to do this. The roots spread horizontally more than vertically. Dig a circle a bit larger than the plant's foliage diameter. Use a sharp spade; you will be cutting through roots. After making the initial spade cut, switch to a long-handled shovel or garden fork. Work under the peony and left it. Roots are broken in this process: it can't be helped so don't worry. In order to divide it, wash off the soil with the hose. Locate the "eyes" which are next year's shoots and blooms. Using a sharp knife, like a chef's knife, cut through the center so that each division has at least 3 "eyes". Amend the new hole with compost. Make sure the eyes are no more than 1.5 inches deep. (warmer winter areas may plant 1 " deep) If the hole settles and the eyes end up being over 2 inches deep, it will not bloom. Water well and mulch with 4 inches of shredded leaves, straw or other material. For your daughter, wrap the division in newspaper and put it in a plastic bag. Lightly dampen the newsprint. It should hold well for a day or two. If you hit a dry spell before the ground freezes, gently water the new peony. If the roots dry out, it will die. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/peony/dividing-peony-plants.htm
