Hi,

I ordered a Paeonia mlokosewitschii (Molly the Witch) early this year from Rare Plants in England. Normally, I try to order from the US or Canada, but I have not been able to locate this particular peony, which I really covet. Or at least when I locate it, it is no longer available. I assumed it would ship in fall as the company says plants ship in the appropriate season. Spring is not an optimal season to plant peony roots here, nor should I think this would be the time to plant them in the UK. The peony is already on its way, so there is no countermanding the order. What would you do? Go ahead and plant the roots in the ground or plant it them in a pot and pamper for a year. Since I have no experience with this species, I feel somewhat uncertain.

Mary, I live in TN and if it were me, I would plant it directly in its permanent spot. Be careful as to the drainage and don't overwater. Hopefully it is still dormant. If it comes with leaves, give it shade (Liz uses garden chairs) until it adjusts. And be sure to protect from freezes.
Please keep us posted!

I would plant it in the ground, I've had to transplant peonies from early spring and summer with no adverse effects.

Your quote sounds like Thomas Jefferson. Good quote. Not intending to start a discussion of it however.

I'd give the same advice as above but wanted to stress that in your zone the extra shade would help out a lot. You don't want it overheating before the roots get established. More water than your established peonies as well, probably 3-4 times a week for the first few weeks then reduce it a bit. Best of luck with your new Molly and make sure to post pics!