K. van Bourgondien Peony Moon River

These roots are shipped in the fall, which is the ideal time to plant them. Getting them in the ground before the first hard frost allows the roots to establish themselves so they are ready to bloom come spring.

While the Moon River variety features an upright and bushy growth habit, the 8-inch double blooms can become quite heavy when fully open. Depending on your garden's exposure to wind and rain, you may want to provide a peony ring or support hoop to keep the stems from drooping.

Because this peony reaches a mature height of 35 inches and develops a bushy habit, you should space them about 3 feet apart. This ensures adequate airflow, which helps prevent foliage diseases and allows the plant to reach its full size.

Peonies are known for being patient plants. While you might see some growth in the first spring, it often takes two to three years for them to fully establish and produce the large, double blooms they are known for.

Yes, their large, 8-inch blooms and subtle roselike fragrance make them excellent for cut arrangements. For the longest vase life, cut the stems when the buds are soft and marshmallow-like, just as they are beginning to show color.