Question
I need to move my peony bushs now. It is april in Idaho. I know you should do it in the fall, but i can't wait. The plants already have little shoots. What if I dug really deep and wide and took the plants that way.

Answer
Kathy,

Unfortunately, moving them now will probably not allow it to flower this year.  It depends on how badly you need them moved.  You have to choose between flowers or location.  That is truly a tough decision.  

When you decide to move them, keep some things in mind.

First, try not to move them often as it will reduce the flowering whenever moved, spring or fall can influence the blooming.  Some clumps can remain in place atleast 10 years without needing to be divided or moved.

Second, when they are moved to the right spot and your about to place them in the ground, make sure the crown of the plant is not too deep or too shallow.  If its planted too deep, the crown cannot get enough sunlight and the buds will not form properly or at all.  The bud "eyes" on the root stock/crown area should planted approximately 2" beneath the soil.

Thirdly, if you decide to divide the clump, make sure to keep atleast 3 buds on each of the divided sections.

Keep in mind aswell that these plants prefer full sun, well-drained soils and abundant water in general.  If you have to fertilize them, use a low nitrogen fertilizer such as an 8-8-8 as too much nitrogen will only promote foliage growth and takes away from flower production.

On your last part to dig deep and wide... if you must move them that would probably be the best way to keep the roots intact, however, the flowering will most likely still be affected.  They will need a lot of attention aswell just to make sure they stay hardy and become well established.  Good luck with your decision, its a tough choice but it sounds like you really need it done so I hope that it goes well!  And who knows, I've been suprised with some plants that I've worked with and I don't want to give you false hope but maybe they will bloom after they're moved...

Jason

P.S.  A tip that I would give you is to pick up some burlap if you don't have some already.  When you dig up the peony, slide the burlap under the root ball while its still in its original hole before you move it.  The burlap will hold the soil together while allowing oxygen to move freely around the roots and if you have to water it you won't have to worry about keeping water around the roots and promote root rot.  You can find burlap at fabric stores and some local nurseries most likely aswell, especially if that nursery deals with trees.