Why peony division is best done in mid-autumn

Peonies are usually propagated by division and grafting. To improve the survival rate of division, it should be carried out in mid-autumn (late September to early October). Because peonies planted during this period heal their roots easily, they can quickly grow new roots, absorb and transport water and nutrients, and enable them to bloom on time the following spring. If planted too late, the roots heal with difficulty. After sprouting in early spring, they need large amounts of water and nutrients to grow and bloom. However, when the root system has not rooted or has rooted very little, the supply of water and fertilizer will be short. They wither and die. However, division cannot be done too early, because if divided too early, the temperature is still high, and it easily causes the germination of terminal buds (commonly known as autumn hair), which also affects growth and blooming the following year. If plants are planted around the spring equinox, when the ground thaws and the weather warms, peonies will sprout rapidly and need to consume large amounts of water and nutrients. However, the root system has not yet healed, which also leads to malnutrition; this malnutrition not only prevents blooming in the same year, but also weakens them. It will also affect blooming the next year. Therefore, flower growers have said, "Plant peonies in spring, and they will never bloom until old." The most suitable time for peony division in the Yellow River basin is between autumn and cold water.

When planting peonies, the plants should be grown as mother plants for 4 to 5 years. Because peony roots are brittle and easily broken, the mother plant should be carefully dug from the soil. After digging, gently shake off the loose soil and place it in a shady spot. After drying for 2 to 3 days, the roots should be softened, then cut from the natural branch cuts with a sharp knife. Cut off residual or old roots, and divide each 3 to 5 branches into one plant, each with at least 2 to 3 roots; coat the wounds with W charcoal powder for antisepsis, and plant them according to the original planting location in open ground or in pots.

http://www.huahuibk.com/Flower Encyclopedia Network compiled and edited.