Gateforth Peony Visit

Last week Sam visited the beautiful Gateforth Farm in NW Tasmania (around a 5hr drive from home, basically from one end of the state to the other) to meet Phil and Fee the owners of the farm and take some photos. Phil and Fee are 7th generation farmers and have created a peony paradise in their paddocks. Each year around May we stock these highest quality local peony roots to our lovely customers. 

Phil was kind enough to answer a couple of peony questions you will see by scrolling down.

Can you tell us briefly about the farm, how long have you been growing peonies?

Gateforth farm based at Black River in NW Tasmania has been farmed by
 the Medwin’s continuously through the generations since 1841. Traditionally a cropping and livestock farm the need for diversification brought about peony cultivation for cut flowers, beginning in 2003.

What is the best climate to grow peonies? Will they grow in warmer climates?

Most Herbaceous lactifloras require approximately 300 hours of chill below 7 degrees Celsius over the winter for flowering, some exceptions are early and very early herbaceous where that number may drop to 150-200 hours. Another exception are the Itoh peony cultivars which are the cross between tree and herbaceous, although the exact cooling temp and period is not clear, they have been flowering well in warmer climates like Perth and Sydney.

When do peonies start flowering after planting the root?

The first year of growth for a newly planted peony generally does not yield flowers. The second year yields 1-3 flowers, and the third year they should start producing more as the tuber system grows large enough to give the energy into flowering. Planting a large root piece can speed up the process and even give a flower in the first year.

Should peonies be lifted from the ground at the end of the season?

Only lift your peony plant if you’re looking to divide into more. Shift the plant or inspect for poor performance. Ideally digging up a peony plant should only be done after the second flowering year.

Best tips for growing?

Most important tips for growing are:

• Start with good planting stock that has been treated for nematode and comes from a trusted source.
• Soil PH should be minimum 6.5-7 using Lime and dolomite to correct up if needed.
• Keep the ground around the crown of the plant clear of debris, mulch and weeds, also removing all plant material in the autumn when the plant starts to die back. This will help manage disease the following year.

What are your favourite varieties?

My favourite varieties? Too many to list and change year on year... But for now, I would have to say for Itohs 'Belle Toulousaine' and 'Danse de Feu'. Both are fully double and I love the unique colour! For Herbaceous 'Glowing Raspberry Rose' and ‘Old Faithful’ are both big and bold with a point of difference.