How to Plant Itoh Peony Bare Root for Gorgeous Blooms

With their lush, multi-colored blooms in shades of pink, red, yellow and white, Itoh peonies are garden showstoppers These intersectional hybrids combine the best qualities of tree and herbaceous peonies into one gorgeous flower. Itohs bloom with the flare of tree peonies but have the hardy constitution of traditional herbaceous types.

For these intersectional beauties to thrive, proper planting of the bare roots is essential Follow these tips to successfully plant your Itoh peony bare roots this season. You’ll be rewarded with a stellar display year after year.

When to Plant Itoh Peonies

Itoh peonies perform best when planted in the early fall. This gives the roots several months to establish themselves before winter dormancy and spring growth.

September and October are ideal planting times in most regions. Northern zones can extend bare root planting into November with protection. Avoid spring planting of peony tubers which is often less successful.

Order Itoh bare roots early to get the best selection. Dig holes and prepare beds ahead of time. Amend soil if needed so you’re ready to plant when the bare roots arrive.

Where to Plant Itoh Peonies

Before planting, choose an optimal site to showcase your Itoh peonies. Here are the ideal conditions:

• Full sun: Itohs need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for prolific blooms. Morning sun is preferable to protect afternoon blooms.

• Well-drained soil: Excellent drainage is mandatory to avoid tuber rot. Incorporate organic matter to improve drainage if needed.

• Neutral pH: Test soil pH and amend to around neutral 6.5-7.0. Peonies thrive in slightly alkaline conditions.

• Sheltered location: Situate peonies where they’ll be protected from strong winds which can damage stems and blooms.

How to Plant Itoh Peony Bare Roots

With the site prepared, it’s time to get those bare roots tucked into the ground. Follow these steps for proper planting:

1. Dig a Hole

Dig a hole that is roughly twice the width of the tuber root to allow room for development. Depth depends on your hardiness zone:

• Northern zones 2-4: Plant with eyes 2 inches below soil surface
• Middle zones 5-6: Plant with eyes 1 inch below surface
• Southern zones 7-8: Plant with eyes 0.5 inch below surface

Deeper planting in colder climates helps insulate the roots, while shallower depths prevent tuber rot in warmer zones.

2. Prepare Roots

Unpack bare roots immediately upon arrival. Trim off any damaged roots or stem remnants with pruning shears, but refrain from removing the fibrous rootlets which aid establishment.

Soak roots in water or a root stimulating solution for 1-2 hours before planting. This rehydrates the roots and promotes better growth next season.

3. Position in Hole

Place the root system in the hole, spreading the roots out evenly around the tuber. The pink growth eyes should point upward. Cover with a small mound of soil to hold in place.

Site the tuber so the stem end faces south and the growth eyes face north. This orientation encourages optimal growth habit and bloom production.

4. Backfill Soil

Begin backfilling the hole with the native soil. Use your hands to gently work soil between the roots, eliminating any air pockets. Firm the soil gently but avoid excessive compaction.

Create a shallow basin shape around the base to help retain moisture. Water thoroughly after planting to further settle the soil.

5. Finish Layer

Add 2-3 inches of organic mulch like shredded leaves, pine needles or straw around the base. This retains soil moisture and insulates the shallow tuber roots through winter.

Mark the site with a tag so you don’t forget the location!

Caring for Itoh Peonies After Planting

Attentive aftercare ensures your newly planted Itoh peonies get off to a vigorous start:

• Water thoroughly 1-2 times per week if rainfall is lacking, avoiding overhead watering on foliage

• Apply a low nitrogen fertilizer in early spring to stimulate robust growth

• Weed and re-mulch around plants as needed to prevent competition

• Stake stems in spring once shoots are 4-6 inches tall to prevent flopping

• Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering period

• Divide congested clumps every 3-5 years after blooming to rejuvenate

What to Expect the First Season

Don’t expect too much from your newly planted Itoh peonies in the first year. Much of their initial energy goes into developing the root system.

A few scant blooms may arise in year one. But the following summer will bring a bountiful display after the roots have established over winter. Patience pays off with peonies!

With proper planting and care of bare root tubers, Itoh peonies will flourish for decades to come. Their sumptuous blooms in late spring and early summer provide stunning garden color. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be rewarded with a conversation-starting display.