Look around Albuquerque to see where others have planted them. I have seen blooming plants in full sun but to have the blooms last longer plant in partial shade or on the north and east side of the house. Dark reds should definately be planted where they can be shaded during bloom time. A shade cloth can be used also.

My Stepdaughter and her partner live between Taos and Santa Fe and followed the book suggestion rather than mine with no success. I have been told that there are a few plants in Dixon which is I believe at 7,000?

Keep the roots well mulched with rocks to cool the soil during your summer.

The fact that her peonies are planted from containers, she should learn this summer if they are in too much sun and will be able to move them in the fall. For her to get planting advice at Costco is remarkable. I often have to hunt someone down to just get the price. She probably bought them because of how beautiful your peonies are, accept her admiration even if she will not accept your advice. Al

calistoga: no, she bought the peonies in large cans at Costco but is planning to transplant them in the ground. I printed maifleur's suggestions ( similar to mine)& gave it to her so now it is a matter of who she is going to believe: Costco 'master gardeners' or the rest of us!!

Thanks for at least confirming my thoughts about differing locations for plants in different parts of the U.S ...