When to fertilize peonies? What kind of fertilizer is good?

Peony, known as the aristocrat among flowers , has won the favor of countless flower lovers with its gorgeous appearance and elegant temperament. In order for peonies to grow healthily, fertilization is a vital part. Let’s learn when to fertilize peonies. What kind of fertilizer is good?

1. Nutritional requirements of peony flowers

1. Nitrogen fertilizer

Nitrogen is a key element for peony growth and is essential for the growth and development of the plant. Nitrogen fertilizer can promote the growth of peony, increase flower bud differentiation, and improve the quality and quantity of flowers.

2. Phosphate fertilizer

Phosphorus is equally important for root development and flower bud differentiation of peonies. Phosphorus fertilizer can promote the growth and flowering of peonies and enhance the color and quality of flowers.

3. Potash fertilizer

Potassium plays a key role in improving the disease resistance and stress resistance of peony. Potassium fertilizer can promote the growth and flowering of peony, and improve the quality and quantity of flowers.

2. Fertilization method of peony

1. Base fertilizer

Basal fertilizer is a mixture of organic and inorganic fertilizers that is applied to the soil before planting peonies to provide the peony with sufficient nutrients for its initial growth. Decomposed organic fertilizer and phosphorus-potassium compound fertilizer can be used as base fertilizer, and fertilization should be carried out in accordance with the principle of appropriate amount and appropriate time.

2. Topdressing

Top dressing is to add fertilizer according to the nutritional needs of peony during its growth period. Increase nitrogen fertilizer in the early growth stage, increase phosphorus fertilizer during flower bud differentiation, and increase potassium fertilizer during flowering. Top dressing can be done with liquid fertilizer or granular fertilizer, which can be adjusted according to the growth status and environmental conditions of the peony.

3. Foliar spray

Foliar spraying is to dissolve fertilizer in water and apply it to the leaves by spraying, which can provide nutrition quickly and effectively and improve the efficiency of nutrient absorption. Suitable for use during the growth period, especially during the flower bud differentiation and flowering periods, to increase nutrient supply and improve flower quality and quantity.

4. Bottom pouring

Bottom fertilization involves dissolving the fertilizer in water and pouring it directly into the peony's root zone to provide nutrients quickly and efficiently. It is suitable for the initial growth stage and flower bud differentiation stage to provide adequate nutrition and promote growth and development.

3. Notes

1. Apply fertilizer appropriately

Overfertilization can lead to growth problems and pests and diseases. When applying fertilizer, the amount and time should be adjusted according to the growth status and environmental conditions of the peony.

2. Choose the right fertilizer

Peonies of different varieties and environments have different fertilizer requirements. Appropriate organic fertilizers, phosphorus-potassium compound fertilizers, etc. should be selected according to the growth conditions and needs of the peony.

3. Fertilize at the right time

Peony has a long growth cycle, so fertilization should be carried out in stages. Apply base fertilizer before planting, apply top dressing or foliar spray during the growing season, and reduce the amount of fertilizer in winter to avoid frost damage.

To sum up, as a high-end flower, peony requires sufficient nutrients for its growth and flowering. Reasonable fertilization methods can not only improve the growth quality and yield of peony, but also avoid diseases and pests caused by improper fertilization. Through scientific fertilization, peonies will be more lush and the flowers will be more colorful.