When to Fertilize Peonies
New Plantings
For newly planted peonies, it is important to get them off to a healthy start. Therefore, apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, shortly after planting. In most cases, fertilizer should be mixed into the soil around the peony at a depth of about 2 inches. Be sure to avoid direct contact with the root system, as this can cause root burn.
Water the plant well after applying the fertilizer to help dissolve the nutrients into the soil. It is common to see the best results when fertilizing peonies in the fall, around September or October. This allows the plant to establish itself before winter arrives.
Established Plants
For established peonies, it is recommended to fertilize them once a year, typically in early spring. This helps promote strong growth and a healthy bloom during the flowering season. Again, use a balanced fertilizer blend, such as 10-10-10, and spread it around the base of the plant.
When applying fertilizer to mature peonies, be sure to:
- Avoid getting fertilizer on the foliage
- Keep the fertilizer at least 6 inches away from the crown
- Water the plant well after applying the fertilizer
It is important not to over-fertilize peonies, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth, at the expense of blooms. If your peony is not producing many flowers, try reducing the amount of fertilizer applied, or switch to a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content.
