Many gardeners believe peonies should only be moved in the fall, but sometimes you need to know how to transplant peonies in summer. While it’s not the ideal season, life happens—maybe you’re moving house or a landscaping project forces your hand. This guide will walk you through the steps to give your summer-transplanted peonies the best possible chance to thrive.
How to Transplant Peonies in Summer
Successfully moving these perennial favorites in the warm months requires careful planning and extra aftercare. The core challenge is minimizing shock to the plant when it’s actively growing and likely flowering. The following steps are designed to protect the root system and help the plant recover in its new location.
Why Summer Transplanting Is Risky
Peonies establish themselves slowly. They prefer the cool, moist conditions of autumn, which allows roots to grow without the stress of supporting top growth or enduring heat. Transplanting in summer interrupts their growth cycle and exposes them to higher temperatures and greater water loss. You may sacrifice blooms for the next year or two, but with proper technique, you can save the plant.
Essential Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Gathering everything beforehand makes the process smoother. You don’t want your peony’s roots drying out while you search for a tool.
- A sharp, clean spade
- Garden fork
- Burlap or a large tarp for moving the root ball
- Pruning shears
- Well-rotted compost or aged manure
- Balanced, slow-release fertilizer
- Mulch (like shredded bark or straw)
- A hose and water source close to the new planting hole
Step-by-Step Summer Transplanting Process
1. Choose the Right Time and Prepare the New Home
If you must transplant in summer, pick a cool, overcast day. Early morning or late evening is best. Never do it during a heatwave. First, dig the new planting hole. It should be twice as wide and just as deep as the expected root ball. Mix the native soil with a generous amount of compost. Having the new hole ready is critical to limit the roots’ air exposure.
2. Prepare the Peony for Moving
Start by cutting back the foliage. Using your shears, trim the stems down to about 4-6 inches from the ground. This reduces water loss through the leaves and makes the plant easier to handle. Water the peony deeply the day before you plan to dig it up. This ensures the plant is hydrated and the soil holds together better.
3. Dig Up the Peony with Extreme Care
Your goal is to preserve as much of the root system as possible. Start digging a wide circle around the plant, at least 12-18 inches from the stems. Use your spade to go deep, then gently use the garden fork to loosen the soil underneath. Lift the entire clump onto the burlap or tarp. Be patient—those tuberous roots are brittle.
4. Inspect, Divide (Optional), and Move Quickly
Gently shake off loose soil so you can see the roots. Look for any rotten or damaged sections and trim them away. If the clump is large and you want more plants, summer is not the best time to divide, but you can carefully separate it into smaller sections if necessary. Each division needs at least 3-5 “eyes” (those pinkish buds). Immediately wrap the rootball in the damp burlap to keep it moist during the short trip to its new hole.
5. Plant at the Correct Depth
This is the most important step for future flowering. Place the peony in the new hole so that the eyes (growth buds) are no more than 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Planting too deep is a common reason peonies fail to bloom. Backfill with your soil-compost mix, gently firming it around the roots as you go to eliminate air pockets.
6. Water and Mulch Thoroughly
As soon as the hole is filled, create a shallow basin around the stem and water slowly and deeply until the soil is saturated. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the plant, keeping it a few inches away from the stems. Mulch is vital for summer transplanting—it keeps the soil cool and retains moisture.
Critical Aftercare for Summer-Transplanted Peonies
The first few weeks are crucial. Your peony will need consistent moisture to grow new feeder roots.
- Water deeply every 2-3 days for the first month, unless you get significant rainfall. The soil should be damp, not soggy.
- Do not fertilize at planting time. You can apply a light, balanced fertilizer in early fall, but the compost in the hole provides enough nutrients for now.
- Stake tall or heavy stems if needed to prevent wind rock from damaging new roots.
- Remove any flower buds that appear this season. This directs all energy to root establishment.
- Expect some wilting or die-back. Keep the soil moist and be patient; new growth should emerge.
Common Problems and How to Solve Them
Even with perfect care, issues can arise. Here’s what to watch for.
Wilting or Drooping Leaves
This is the most common sign of transplant shock. Ensure you are watering deeply enough—surface sprinkling won’t help. Provide temporary shade for a few days using a sun cloth or even a propped-up board on the south side.
Lack of Blooms Next Spring
If your peony doesn’t bloom the following year, don’t panic. It often takes two years to recover from a summer move. Check that the planting depth is correct and that the plant is getting at least 6 hours of sun.
Foliage Diseases
Stressed plants are more susceptible. Ensure good air circulation, water at the soil level (not overhead), and clean up all fallen foliage in the autumn to prevent fungal spores from overwintering.
FAQ: Transplanting Peonies in Summer
Can you transplant peonies in July?
You can, but July is often the hottest month, making it the most stressful time. If you must, follow the guidelines above meticulously, especially for watering and providing temporary shade.
Is it better to transplant peonies in spring or summer?
Fall is definitively the best. Between spring and summer, early spring (as soon as the ground thaws and before significant growth) is preferable to summer. Spring gives the plant a full growing season to establish before winter.
How long does it take for a transplanted peony to recover?
You may see signs of recovery in a few weeks, but full establishment takes about a year. It commonly takes two to three years for the plant to return to its previous blooming vigor after a summer move.
Should I fertilize after transplanting in summer?
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers after summer transplanting, as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of root growth. The compost in the planting hole is sufficient. A light feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early fall is safe.
Transplanting peonies in summer is a gamble, but it’s not a lost cause. By acting quickly, minimizing root disturbance, and committing to diligent aftercare, you can successfully relocate these garden treasures. The key is managing the plant’s stress and prioritizing root recovery over everything else. With some patience, your peony will settle into its new spot and reward you with its beautiful blooms for years to come.