I recieved 4 large tree peonies today from a friend who does landscaping. He had to dig them out and asked me if I wanted them. I know it's probably not the best time to transplant, but I had to take them when they became available. They are all finished blooming, and have mature seed pods on them. I am thinking it's best to remove the seed pods, but should I cut them back? A small amount, a lot or not at all? I've never had these before. Thanks in advance for your help.

I had to move one in early spring. I posted this question on the Peony forum

The thread "Moving a Tree Peony" in Peonies forum

So far mine came through fine. But it did not flower and I do not have pods.

You may want to ask in the Peony forum. Not everyone visits the Ask a Question forum

Cut off the seed pods but don't remove any foilage. If you can manage it, it might be best to put the plants into a nursery bed, with rich moist soil and a good bit of filtered shade. If you have to put them into their permanent locations, shade them as much as possible (rig up old bed sheets on poles if you have to). It's essential to keep them from drying out and overheating. If you can do this, you'll be ok. You may have some dieback and the plants may even go into shock and lose their foliage, but they will recover...even if it's not until next spring.. You may not get blooms next spring, but they'll survive. Good for you for rescuing these beauties!

Thanks I will do my best.