Peonies are a popular choice for many gardeners, but if you’ve found that your peonies haven’t always lived up to expectations, there’s a simple technique you might be overlooking
Peonies are a stunning addition to any garden, whether they’re the star of the show or part of a colourful border. These perennial plants live for more than two years and can return each year with a beautiful display of blooms.
However, if your peonies aren’t living up to their potential, perhaps producing fewer flowers than you’d like, there’s a simple trick you might be missing.
Gardening expert Mickey Gast, from Blooming Backyard, says that applying organic compost at the right time can make a huge difference, reports the Express.
“Once your peonies are established, there are two main periods when you should fertilise them: pre-bloom and post-bloom,” he explained.
Mickey added: “In most climates, this translates to early spring and late summer.”
During spring, peonies focus on growing new foliage and buds, so feeding them at this stage can ensure they have the nutrients they need to thrive and produce gorgeous flowers in the summer.
According to Simple Garden Life, fertilising peonies after they bloom, once the flowers have faded, can give the plants an extra boost and help them store energy to produce blooms the following year.
If you’re planning to feed your peonies after they bloom, it’s suggested to give them half a cup of bone meal per plant.
The experts at Simple Garden Life said, “This lighter feeding strengthens the leaves and roots through summer. More importantly, it helps the plant prepare for even bigger blooms the following spring.”
It’s crucial that peonies receive nourishment immediately after their flowering period ends, as feeding them too late could prompt them to develop fresh growth at an inappropriate time of year.
There are countless ways to boost your garden’s visual appeal, but when it comes to peonies, the Royal Horticultural Society suggests following six simple guidelines.
For those new to growing these gorgeous blooms, the first move involves buying a mature, healthy plant.
This sets you up for triumph—and a spectacular floral display.
Peonies should be placed in a bright or semi-shaded spot with well-draining soil.
The RHS states: “Plant at the correct depth (for herbaceous peonies, this means 2.5-5cm below the surface)”.
For the best results, feed once yearly with a slow-release and balanced fertiliser and cut back dead foliage in autumn, readying the plant to emerge the following year.
