When I take care of my peonies, I’ve learned that they really appreciate the right kind of attention, especially when it comes to fertilizing. I make sure to remove any weeds first and then apply a nitrogen-poor, organic fertilizer. I’ve found that early spring, right when they start to sprout, is the perfect time to give them some nutrients. It’s always nice to see them thrive, and I love knowing that by using a gentle, slow-release fertilizer, I’m helping them stay healthy without the risk of overfeeding them. Peonies need time to settle in and grow strong, so I’m careful to keep them in one spot for years, letting them develop fully without disturbing their roots. They’re such resilient plants, and every year when they bloom, I feel a little more connected to the process of nurturing something that lasts.
To promote abundant flowering, peonies (Paeonia) should be fertilized once a year. But be careful: not every type of fertilizer is suitable for these sensitive perennials. Peonies often become susceptible to fungal diseases if given nitrogen-heavy fertilizers. Instead, it’s better to use an organic fertilizer that is rich in phosphate and potassium.
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Fertilizing Peonies – Key Tips at a Glance
- Remove weeds around the plant before applying fertilizer.
- Use a nitrogen-poor, organic perennial fertilizer.
- Work the fertilizer lightly into the soil using a hand cultivator.
How to Fertilize Peonies Correctly
The best time to fertilize peonies is early in the spring, just as they begin to sprout. The ideal choice is an organic perennial fertilizer, which slowly releases nutrients over an extended period. Alternatively, a multi-nutrient fertilizer with a low nitrogen content can be used. Peonies respond particularly well to low-nitrogen, mineral-organic fertilizer blends or low-nitrogen bone meal. These types of fertilizers are best applied in the autumn.
Since peony roots are sensitive, the fertilizer should be gently and shallowly worked into the soil. Organic fertilizers must first be broken down by microorganisms before the nutrients become available to the plant. This slow release also reduces the risk of overfertilization compared to mineral fertilizers. Still, it’s important to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging carefully. If planning well in advance, the soil can be enriched with well-rotted cow manure a year before planting. However, fresh manure should never be added at the time of planting.
Additional Tips for Growing Peonies
Peonies are hardy and extremely long-lived. There are various species and cultivars—some herbaceous like the ones described here, and others, like tree peonies, which develop woody stems. A general rule for all peonies: they thrive best when allowed to grow undisturbed in one location for decades. These ornamental plants prefer deep, loose soils, as their roots grow far into the ground. They flourish in sunny, well-ventilated areas. Herbaceous peonies can be propagated through division, ideally in the fall when they enter dormancy.
