Hey there, flower lovers! As a peony farmer in Mt. Olive, NC, and I’ll let you in on a little secret: you don’t need to plant peonies to enjoy their magic. Leave that to us! Our fresh, local blooms are ready for your vase, wedding, or event—no dirt under your nails required. But why do peonies cost more than, say, daisies or zinnias? It’s all about time, care, and a whole lot of outdoor love that makes this family business a joy worth sharing.
The Slow, Beautiful Journey of Peonies
Peonies aren’t like those quick-growing annuals you see everywhere. From the moment we tuck their tubers into Zone 8’s rich clay soil, it’s a 2–3-year wait for that first big burst of blooms. They need chilly nights (500–1,000 hours below 40°F), endless sun, and constant tending—think weeding, fertilizing, and pest patrol. Compare that to zinnias, blooming in months for pennies, or cosmos popping up like wild friends. Peonies are a labor of love, costing us time and money—But when they unfurl, fluffy and fragrant, they’re worth every penny we pour in.
Zone 8 Favorites We Grow for You
Here in North Carolina, we grow varieties that thrive in our mild winters and warm summers including:
- ‘Sarah Bernhardt’: A pink dream for your bouquet.
- ‘Festiva Maxima’: White with a red kiss—pure elegance.
- ‘Coral Charm’: A coral glow that steals the show.
Why We Do It: Outdoors, Unplugged, and Family
For me, growing peonies is about more than flowers—it’s the life. I’m out here with the sunrise, hands in the dirt, unplugged from screens and stress. No office cubicle can beat the breeze rustling through our fields. And it’s a family affair—my kids run around and my parents help out. We’re growing memories as much as peonies, and bringing you the freshest blooms.
So, skip the hard part, grab some local peonies, and let us share the joy—no green thumb needed! In 2025 our peonies are available in Wilmington NC at our farmstand pick up in Pine Valley, bouquet pop ups at boutiques. Follow us on instagram and facebook to know when and where for pick ups and pop ups!