Paeony are simply beautiful with stunning flowers which can live for longer than we do. They come back year after year and bloom from late spring until early summer, depending on your location and which variety you grow.

• Bare rooted paeonies are planted in autumn/winter.

• The paeony thrives best in sunny, well-drained soil and tolerates partial shade if the soil is not waterlogged. The tubers should be planted well away from competing roots from trees and shrubs.

• Before planting, the soil should be well cultivated, and if the soil level is not between (or near) a pH of 6-6.5, incorporate dolomite lime fertiliser at the time of planting. When planting new tubers, dig your hole, add a layer of fertiliser, then add 5 centimetres of soil over the fertiliser before placing your tuber. Your tuber should sit 5cm below the ground level.

• In winter, just before new growth, apply the fertiliser Nitroblue and additional potash. The ratio of 10 parts Nitroblue to 1 part potash is ideal. Potash promotes good health and flower colour also. At times an extra application of Nitroblue is necessary after flowering. Fertilise every few years with this combo around the drip line of the leaves and avoid the crown. Never use any fresh animal manure.

• Plant at least one metre apart for good tuber development.

• Paeonies thrive in cold, frosty conditions, and in fact, they require lower temperatures to flower well.

• Given care, paeonies can remain in place for many years and don’t need lifting.

• If the first season of planting is dry, in spring, water well for good growth and establishment. Soak, but do not overwater.