Herbaceous peonies, also known as Chinese peonies or Paeonia lactiflora, are perennial plants that offer a spectacular flowering in spring, featuring large crumpled flowers in red, pink, or white, pleasantly fragrant. They grow faster than shrub peonies and bloom a little later, in May-June. They have a long lifespan, but over time, peony plants can become exhausted and bloom less frequently; division is the ideal solution to rejuvenate them while obtaining new plants. This tutorial explains how to proceed!

When to divide an herbaceous peony?

The best time to divide an herbaceous peony is in late summer or early autumn, between late August and early October, when the plant has finished its flowering period. This gives the new plant enough time to establish itself and form new roots before restarting in spring.

Peonies do not like to be disturbed and generally take several years to settle in. If your peony plants are thriving and blooming well, avoid dividing them. Only intervene if their flowering is declining or if you need to move them.

Herbaceous peony 'Monsieur Jules Elie'
Paeonia lactiflora 'Monsieur Jules Elie'

How to divide an herbaceous peony?

  • Start by cutting the stems to 10 or 15 cm above the ground.
  • Carefully dig up the herbaceous peony you wish to divide using a spade or fork. Dig wide and deep enough to avoid damaging the roots.
  • Once the plant is removed from the soil, you will see a cluster of tubercles and roots. Clean them thoroughly and inspect for any signs of disease or rot.
  • Remove any damaged or diseased parts with pruning shears.
  • Use a sharp knife to separate the rootstocks into several sections, ensuring that each has at least three buds or "eyes". These buds are the starting point for the future growth of the plant.
Herbaceous peonies: how to divide them
Dig up the peony rootstocks you wish to divide, remove damaged parts, and cut them into several sections using a sharp knife.
  • Choose the location where you want to plant the new peony plants, and work the soil to at least 30 cm deep. Peonies need a sunny location and well-drained, rich organic soil. You can add compost, well-rotted manure, or organic fertiliser to enrich the soil.
  • Plant each new division, ensuring that the buds are facing upwards and positioned at soil level.
  • Fill the hole by replacing soil all around.
  • Water generously.
  • Consider placing labels to mark their location.
  • Continue to water regularly during the first few weeks to help the plants establish.
  • You can also add organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and protect the young roots.
  • Peonies are slow to establish. It will take 2 to 3 years before you see them bloom.
Planting peony rootstocks in the ground after division
After preparing the soil, you can replant the peonies in the ground at their new location. They will restart in spring.

Necessary materials