Yes, you can divide your tree peony and fall (when it is dormant) is the best time to do it. But you only want to move forward with a tree peony division if it has more than 1 or 2 trunks or stems because there will not be much to divide if that is the case.
You will have to dig up the whole plant to divide it properly because just taking a section from where it is currently planted could end up injuring the roots of the entire plant. To divide it properly you need to see the whole root system.
To divide, dig around the plant’s drip line and gently loosen to avoid damaging the roots. Once removed from the ground, wash off the soil and cover the roots with a slightly damp burlap cloth for a couple hours to allow the roots to rest. Since most tree peonies are grafted, you will want to remove the original herbaceous graft root, which is dark and bulbous. Just be careful not to damage the lighter and longer roots of your peony.
Divide the roots carefully and make sure each division has a stem and a root to make it viable when replanted. You can try pulling them apart, but you may need to make a few cuts with a sharp knife or pruners. Remember to remove any dead or rotted roots.
You then want to plant your divisions as soon as possible.
Hi Diana,
Yes, you can divide your tree peony and fall (when it is dormant) is the best time to do it. But you only want to move forward with a tree peony division if it has more than 1 or 2 trunks or stems because there will not be much to divide if that is the case.
You will have to dig up the whole plant to divide it properly because just taking a section from where it is currently planted could end up injuring the roots of the entire plant. To divide it properly you need to see the whole root system.
To divide, dig around the plant’s drip line and gently loosen to avoid damaging the roots. Once removed from the ground, wash off the soil and cover the roots with a slightly damp burlap cloth for a couple hours to allow the roots to rest. Since most tree peonies are grafted, you will want to remove the original herbaceous graft root, which is dark and bulbous. Just be careful not to damage the lighter and longer roots of your peony.
Divide the roots carefully and make sure each division has a stem and a root to make it viable when replanted. You can try pulling them apart, but you may need to make a few cuts with a sharp knife or pruners. Remember to remove any dead or rotted roots.
You then want to plant your divisions as soon as possible.
Hope this helps. Good luck!