Every year they proudly produce their flowers, which tower above the green foliage and overhang in a slightly arching manner. But at some point the peony runs out of breath and the abundance of flowers is over - at least when there is a shortage of nutrients in the soil. Therefore: fertilize properly!

Compost or horn shavings are suitable fertilizers for the peony

Fertilize twice a year

Peonies are best fertilized twice a year. But it is not absolutely necessary. However, fertilization supports the growth of the plant and boosts its ability to bloom. You should fertilize your peony for the first time in the 2nd or 3rd year. Fertilization is not recommended in the first year.

The first application of fertilizer takes place in early/mid-March, i.e. when the peony buds. This fertilization is used to promote budding and rich flowering. The second application of fertilizer takes place immediately after flowering. It serves to strengthen the plant for the coming garden year.

Stop fertilizing after September

Shrub peonies in particular, which are not rigorously pruned in autumn in contrast to perennial peonies, should not be fertilized too late. The second fertilization should be done 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 ground. Nevertheless, nutrient-poor and sandy soils in particular should be regularly upgraded with fertilizer. The following are suitable for fertilizing:

  • compost
  • Horn shavings (32.93€) or horn meal
  • manure
  • bone meal

Basically, you should prefer an organic fertilizer, as it decomposes slowly and is therefore also slowly absorbed. Chemical fertilizers as well as the popular blue grain often lead to yellowing of the leaves.

Ratio of potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen

Peonies do not need high doses of nutrients. But if they are fertilized, care should be taken that the fertilizer is not too overloaded with nitrogen and phosphorus. The fertilizer of choice should be high in potassium and low in phosphorus. Too much nitrogen promotes the development of fungal diseases.

Apply the fertilizer correctly

When you're not about to transplant your peony, you can fertilize it. First, weeds are removed from the plant. The fertilizer is then spread over the root area. With a hand cultivator, the fertilizer can now be carefully and gently worked into the soil. Attention: The root nodules, which are close to the surface, are very sensitive!

tips

Fertilizing at the right time can even prevent the long flower stalks from buckling. The fertilizer acts as a support from within and strengthens the stems.

Category:

Vegetable garden