Where Are the Tubers on a Peony Plant?

Peony Roots

• Tubers are underground storage roots, similar to bulbs. These roots are thickened, allowing the plant to store extra energy in them. On the peony, these tuberous roots fan outward from the crown -- the area where the stem meets the roots -- of the plant and are attached to the main stem. When divided, the tubers will grow into new plants identical to the original.

Digging Up Peonies

• When peonies become overgrown and show a decline in blooming, digging them up and dividing the tubers often revitalizes the plant. This is best done in late summer or early fall so the tubers have time to establish a strong root system. Digging around the peony bush approximately 8 inches from the base of the plant and sliding the shovel's blade under the clump of roots typically allows you to lift the clump free of the soil. If the bush is large, work your way around the bush with the shovel to sever the small roots.

Dividing Peonies

• Freshly dug peony roots can be tough to handle and may be brittle. Allowing them to sit in a warm area for a day or two will soften the roots and make division easier. Select sections that contain at least two shoots and cut them free of the clump with a sharp knife, by cutting through the crown. The tubers and the attached shoots are then ready for replanting.

Replanting Peony Tubers

• Planting peony tubers at the proper depth is important. Digging a hole to a depth of 12 inches and creating a cone of soil in the center allows you to position the section of peony so the tubers and fine roots fan downward. Fill in around the roots with fresh soil. Adjust the crown of the new section so it rests 1 to 2 inches below the surface of the soil. Planting the tubers so the crown is too deep will result in healthy foliage but a lack of blooms.