Finding Gorgeous Fern Leaf Peonies for Your Garden

Fern leaf peonies are a unique and charming type of peony prized for their delicate, finely cut foliage and abundance of single, poppy-like blooms Their compact size makes them ideal for rock gardens, borders, containers or as a floral groundcover. If you’re looking to add these heirloom beauties to your garden, here’s where to find fern leaf peony plants, bulbs and roots for sale.

Online Sources for Fern Leaf Peonies

Several reputable online nurseries offer fern leaf peony plants and bulbs for mail order delivery:

Breck’s

This family-owned bulb and perennial nursery has been in business since 1818. Their fern leaf peony is field grown in Holland, arriving as a premium #1 size root division ideal for fall planting. Expect vibrant crimson blooms on plants that reach 15 inches tall.

Hollingsworth Peonies

A specialty grower offering bare root peony plants, Hollingsworth sells several fern leaf peony varieties including the classic Paeonia tenuifolia fern leaf types with single, poppy-like blooms in vivid magenta.

Bluestone Perennials

This nursery sells the P. tenuifolia species as well as a dwarf pink hybrid called ‘Martha W.’ that blooms in early spring and grows just 12 inches tall.

Van Engelen

Known for their bulb selection, Van Engelen sells P. tenuifolia bulbs in fall for shipment at proper planting time. Expect blooms 7 days earlier than most peonies.

Johnston’s Peonies

This Iowa peony farm offers bare root P tenufolia divisions harvested from their fields for shipping in September,

When ordering fern leaf peony roots online, choose the largest size available (#1 grade or premium divisions) and plant them promptly upon arrival in fall. This gives the roots time to establish before winter dormancy.

Finding Fern Leaf Peonies Locally

Beyond online buying options, visit local sources to find fern leaf peonies for sale:

Independent Nurseries

Ask at your local independent nurseries to see if they carry fern leaf peony plants in stock or can specially order them. These small businesses often track down rare varieties upon request.

Farmers Markets

Check area farmers markets to see if any vendors offer peonies. These sellers are often specialty growers.

Spring Plant Sales

Botanical gardens, public gardens, schools, and garden clubs often hold spring plant sales fundraisers in May where you may find fern leaf peonies.

Estate Sales

Watch for estate or garden auctions selling plants from mature private gardens. You may find heritage peonies like fern leaf types passed down for generations.

When buying locally, inspect plants carefully for signs of health and good root systems. Ask about the plant’s age, bloom time, size, and needs before purchasing.

What to Look for When Buying

Here are signs of quality fern leaf peonies to look for when buying:

• Root Divisions – Mature roots with 3-5 eyes/growth buds are ideal. Avoid less than 3 eyes.

• Root Size – Bigger is better. Large #1 grade or premium divisions establish faster.

• Root Color – Roots should be firm and white inside. Discoloration indicates disease.

• Foliage – Leaves should be fresh, green and not wilting or yellowed.

• Packaging – Roots should be packed in moist sphagnum moss, not dried out.

• Reputation – Buy from reputable growers known for selling healthy, true-to-name plants.

For blooming potted peonies, check for vigor, health, and a good root system before purchasing.

How to Plant and Care for New Fern Leaf Peonies

Once you’ve sourced plants, proper planting and care will help them thrive:

• Plant in fall, 6 weeks before frost for best root growth. Spring planting also works.

• Choose a site with full sun to part shade and well-draining soil. Amend clay or sand as needed.

• Dig a hole large enough to spread roots without bending. Set crown 1 inch below soil.

• Water thoroughly after planting and consistently the first year. Reduce after established.

• Apply phosphorus fertilizer in spring as growth resumes. Avoid high nitrogen.

• Remove spent blooms to encourage prolonged flowering.

• Cut foliage back to the ground after it browns in late fall to prevent disease.

• Insulate plants with mulch in very cold winters for added protection.

With their lacy foliage and abundant pops of color, fern leaf peonies deserve a spot in any garden. Seek them out from reputable sources and provide good care for seasons of beauty.

Finding Your Perfect Fern Leaf Peony

With their captivating heirloom charm, fern leaf peonies are a must-have for any garden. Shop top online nurseries or check your local independent garden centers, plant sales and markets to find these special beauties for sale. Select healthy, vigorous plants and roots from reputable sellers. Give them proper planting, care and overwintering to enjoy their elegance for years to come. Let the magical flowers of fern leaf peonies transport you to another time and place in your own garden retreat.