Growing Peony flowers:

Herbaceous peonies come in a variety of forms, singles, doubles and semi-doubles and are often quite fragrant, they can grow up to 1m tall. Peonies will normally take a few years to establish and flower well. They may produce a few flowers in the first year then more each following year.

Peonies need a cold winter to grow. If your climate does not get frosts, then ice can be placed on the plant on the coldest nights. This should be done approximately 6 times.

Peony root stock should be planted on arrival in Autumn - Early Winter.

Choose an area to plant that has well draining soil and full sun.

Dig a hole 40cm X 40cm and 40cm deep. Fill the bottom 10cm of the hole with rich compost. Fill the hole half way with a mix of high quality garden soil + compost. Place the root in place so that the eyes are facing upwards and spread the roots evenly. The eyes must be no deeper than 5cm once complete, otherwise they may fail to bloom. Fill in the rest of the soil around the root. Water in well. Space 1m apart.

Peonies prefer a neutral soil pH (7.0).

Peonies are heavy feeders, general purpose fertiliser should be applied during early spring and late autumn. Watered regularly in warmer months. 

Peonies don't like to be disturbed, but during their dormant months (winter) you can lift and divide a large matt of roots.  Keep moist and cool after lifting. To prevent botrytis returning year on year cut stems back in autumn to 10cm above the ground.  Cut back before leaves drop to ground to prevent botrytis entering the crown.  

Peonies can grow in pots but it is more difficult. They need winter cooling and heavy fertilisation to make them flourish.