There could be many reasons for the brown buds but the most likely reason is that they were recently moved. Peonies do not like to be disturbed and moved and will often give you brown buds for up to four years after they are moved or transplanted. Here's a link...

MeMo

Here is a link that might be useful: Peonies

Some peonies can be real divas in the garden, but they are so worth it. I have the same problem every once in a while but not normally on established plants. So hopefully once you get them well established you won't run into this too much.

Have you looked into tree peonies yet? Those bloom earlier than herbaceous and are real standouts in the garden. Can be pricey though. whenever I found one at a nursery for less than $25 I would scoop it up. They are drool-worthy but REAL divas. If it is too hot their blooms will speed right by. If they get wet, they droop a lot. But if the conditions are right they'll make your heart skip a beat!

Like thyme, I've never had much of a problem either transplanting established, older peonies or pieces of them. Newer ones, yes. Normally I have to wait a year or two before those bloom. But I also haven't purchased any new ones in a long while.

My yellow tree peony was gorgeous for three years, then froze out or something because one summer it bloomed pink. After I first planted it, it seemed to take several years to bloom. I've wanted to dig it out and transplant it to a better location.

Thanks. :)

I'll just keep an eye on them and see if it spreads. ALl my peonies were planted last fall.

I am interested in getting many peonies established for cut flowers.