Question
HI Tom!  Wondering if i can take the seed pods from the peonies and begin new plants?  If so when is the best time to do this?  I'm moving and want to take as many of my perennials with me as possible....I'm thinking of digging existing peonies and perhaps splitting...good idea or not?  I see from other responses that moving will slow the blooms down for a few years....thanks for any all insight you can offer!  Nancy

Answer
Hi Nancy,
Thanx for your question.  Some peonies will set seed.  I've not seen any develop on any of mine but I have seen peony seeds elsewhere.  I understand that it takes one or two cold periods to break the dormancy.  That means the seeds must go through one or two winters before they will germinate but you can simulate this by planting the seed 1/2 inch deep in moist (not soggy) potting soil, place the pot in a plastic baggie and place in the fridge for 90 days.  Bring back out into the warmth and keep the pot watered.  Allow a couple of months to pass and if no germination, return the pot to the fridge and follow the same method again.  I would prefer to dig up the rhizomes.  Although it will slow down the blooming growing a blooming plant from seed will take years before you have a bloom.  I say, dig up the rhizomes in the early fall and divide them.  Peonies usually don't need to be divided and will live and bloom happily for 100 years or more.  I understand though, that you probably want to increase your plants so, division is the most efficient way to go.  I hope this helps.
Tom