RIVERVIEW GARDENS 
Saint Paul, Minn. 
PEONY ARRANGEMENT, PLANTING AND CARE. Peonies may be planted 
in almost every conceivable place, as single specimens, in large or small beds, 
against shrubbery, along the walks on the lawn, in long rows bordering walks, 
drives, and on division lines, or producing broad landscape effects in the open field. 
Mass planting, however, always produces the grandest effects, especially when 
placed before backgrounds of trees and shrubs. 
They thrive in any good garden soil, unless too sandy, and in almost any 
situation except directly under large trees. They should not, however, be planted 
in soil where peonies have recently been grown before. 
The very best time to plant peonies is from September 10th, when the roots 
are ripe for digging, until the ground is frozen. The earlier they are planted, 
the better will they become established—they start growing at once. Can also be 
set in early spring, providing it is done very early; as soon as the ground is in 
good condition to work. 
DISTANCE TO PLANT will vary according to the variety. Tall varieties natur¬ 
ally require more room. A very good rule to follow is to set them the distance 
of their own height. If a variety is thirty to thirty-five inches high set them 
thirty inches apart each way and they will have ample room, but if wanted in 
one continuous row, then six inches less in every case will do; that is, twenty-four 
inches apart in the row will give them enough room, as they can spread out 
on the sides. 
Holes large enough to receive the roots should be dug about fifteen to eighteen 
inches deep, and as much across. If very dry, fill this with water before planting, 
and let it all soak in. Then place the root in the center, just deep enough so the 
eyes are two or three inches below the surface; fill in with good, fine soil to the 
eyes of the root and press or place the earth firmly around the root; water some 
more and let it soak in, then fill the hole level full with loose earth without 
packing it, and the job is done. Keep the top always loose and free from weeds 
and grass. Too deep planting should be avoided; this is often the cause of shy 
blooming. 
FRESH MANURE should not be used or come in contact with the roots, but 
rotten manure can be used carefully as a top dressing every fall. Do not place 
it on the top of the plant. A little bonemeal may be applied in the fall and pul¬ 
verized sheep manure worked into the soil around the plants in the spring. 
The ground around your plants should always be kept loose by frequent 
hoeing and cultivation. Peonies should have at least the same care in this respect 
as a crop of corn or potatoes. Your reward will be flowers of large size and bril¬ 
liant in color. 
Exhibition flowers can be had by DISBUDDING; that is, pinching off all side- 
buds when the size of peas, leaving only the center one on each stalk to develop 
and bloom. 
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