Every year they proudly produce their flowers, which tower over the green foliage and hang over in a slightly arched manner. But at some point the peony runs out of steam and the abundance of flowers is over - at least when nutrients in the soil are in short supply. Therefore: Fertilize correctly!
How should you properly fertilize peonies?
In order to fertilize peonies effectively, they should be supplied twice a year with organic fertilizers such as compost, horn shavings, manure or bone meal. The first fertilization takes place at the beginning/mid of March, the second directly after flowering, at the latest by September.
Fertilize twice a year
It's best to fertilize peonies twice a year. But it is not absolutely necessary. But fertilization supports the growth of the plant and boosts its ability to bloom. You should fertilize your peony for the first time in its 2nd or 3rd year. Fertilization is not recommended in the first year.
The first fertilizer is applied at the beginning/mid of March, i.e. when the peony sprouts. This fertilization is used to promote budding and abundant flowering. The second fertilizer application takes place immediately after flowering. It serves to strengthen the plant for the coming gardening year.
Do not fertilize from September onwards
In particular, shrub peonies, which are not rigorously cut back in autumn, unlike perennial peonies, should not be fertilized too late. The second fertilization should take place by September at the latest. Otherwise there is a risk that the shoots will no longer be able to mature properly and will be damaged by frost over the winter.
Suitable fertilizers – organic
Peonies are considered weak feeders and they still find nutrients deep in the soil. Nevertheless, nutrient-poor and sandy soils in particular should be regularly enhanced with fertilizer. The following are suitable for fertilizing:
- Compost
- Horn shavings or horn meal
- Stable dung
- Bone meal
Basically, you should prefer an organic fertilizer, as it decomposes slowly and is therefore absorbed slowly. Chemical fertilizers such as the popular blue grain often cause the leaves to yellow.
Potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen ratio
Peonies do not need high doses of nutrients. But when they are fertilized, care should be taken to ensure that the fertilizer is not too overloaded with nitrogen and phosphorus. The fertilizer of choice should be high in potassium and lower in phosphorus. Too much nitrogen promotes the development of fungal diseases.
Apply the fertilizer correctly
If you don't want to transplant your peony, you can fertilize it. First, the plant is cleared of weeds. The fertilizer is then sprinkled over the root area. The fertilizer can now be carefully and gently worked into the soil using a hand cultivator. Attention: The root tubers that are close to the surface are very sensitive!
Tip
At the right time, fertilization can even protect the long flower stems from bending. The fertilizer acts like a support from the inside and strengthens the stems.