Question
QUESTION: Due to construction where established peony now resides, I must move it.  I can wait until after it blooms but then it must go and cannot wait until ideal moving time.  Are there any special suggestions for survival?


ANSWER: Hi Lucia,
Thanx for your question.  If you can move the peony now, it will probably have less adverse affects.  They're pretty tough but it will probably not bloom for 2-3 years because they hate being moved.  Even if it were the ideal time, like early fall the peony would still not bloom until the second or third season.  I hope this helps.
Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Tom, The peony stems are already 18" tall with some leaf & flower bud development.  Are you saying to move it before it blossoms?
Thanks so much for quick reply!

Answer
Hi Lucia,
Thanx for the additional information.  If you have to move the plant now and there is no way you can wait, I would go ahead and move it now and not cut off the leaves.  Cut the flower buds off though so it will help the plant save energy.  The ideal thing would be to wait until August but I realize you can't do that.  I would do it now before the plant weakens itself by blooming.  Be sure to cut the blooming buds off but not the leaves.  I hope this helps.
Tom