Transplanting peonies is best done in the fall, specifically between September and November, as this timing coincides with the plants entering dormancy.
During this period, peonies experience less stress, making them more resilient to the shock of being moved.
The process involves cutting back the stems near ground level and carefully digging around the plant to retain as much of the root ball as possible.
It’s crucial to replant them promptly in a sunny, well-drained location, ensuring that the buds are positioned one to two inches below the soil surface to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Transplanting in the fall allows the peonies to establish their roots before winter, leading to better blooming in subsequent years.
While it is possible to move peonies in early spring before they start to grow, this can lead to poor growth and delayed flowering.
Therefore, fall is considered the optimal time for transplanting peonies, ensuring they thrive in their new location.