Germination of peony seeds is a long process.
In a soilless medium dampened with water, place your peony seeds. They need to maintain a temp of about 90 degrees F. for 10-12 weeks . PLaces where I was able to achieve this is the top of my pellet stove hopper and have heard that the pipe to the water heater also tends to be about that temperature.
After the time has passed, place in a temp of about 50 degrees. After 3 or 4 weeks check on them. In several weeks you will see roots develop. It seems to me I left them in this position for 6 weeks or so. You must see roots or the process has not worked.
After 6 weeks or so, then place in the veggie/fruit bin of your fridge. It is here where you will see leaf development. This is another process that takes a couple months. Keep checking on them.
I usually start my peony seeds in November. The process is long and it seems to be timed right for my region to be growing outside in June sometime, giving the roots time to develop in the pots and acclimate to the weather conditions.
If you ever wonder why the price of peonies tend to be a little high from growers, if you try this, you will see.
Hope that helps you.
When you see a leaf develop, you can plant them out in a pot. I leave my peony seedlings under a shade tree to harden off and transplant them in the early fall.
Also remember, peonies are patience plants. They can take 3-5 years or more to grow from seed to flower. Rewarding, yes.
