When to plant Chinese peony 'Sarah Bernhardt'?

Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt' thrives in full sun or partial shade, though flowering is most abundant with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Choose a sheltered spot where the plant can remain undisturbed for years—peonies resent being moved once established. The soil should be rich, moisture-retentive loam or clay that drains reasonably well; waterlogged conditions in winter will rot the crown. Prepare the planting area by digging a hole roughly 40 cm wide and 40 cm deep. Work in plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost, mixing it thoroughly into the base and sides of the hole. If your soil is heavy clay, incorporate some horticultural grit to improve drainage. Plant bare-root peonies in September, October or November while the plant is dormant. This autumn planting window is critical: it allows the roots to establish before winter and ensures good flowering the following year. Position the crown so that the dormant buds (eyes) sit no more than 2–3 cm below the soil surface. Planting too deeply is the most common reason peonies fail to flower. Space plants 80 cm apart to allow for their mature spread of 70–90 cm. Backfill with the improved soil, firm gently with your hands, and water in thoroughly even if the ground is already damp. Apply a 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost or leaf mould around—but not over—the crown. Avoid further disturbance, and be patient: 'Sarah Bernhardt' may take two or three seasons to flower well as it settles in.