Your Guide to Growing Peonies in Pots and Containers
With limited garden space, growing peonies in pots and containers can be a rewarding way to enjoy their lovely blossoms. Your guide to potted peony success:
For adequate drainage, choose a large, robust container with bottom holes. Because peonies have deep roots, pick a pot at least 12-18 inches deep and wide enough for the root ball.
1. Selecting a Container
Select compact or dwarf peonies for container growing. Choose herbaceous or compact tree peonies.
Make sure the variety fits your climate and growing circumstances.
2. Selecting Peonies
For better drainage, use a potting mix with compost, peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite.
Avoid normal garden soil in containers since it compacts and causes drainage issues.
3. Preparing the Potting Mix
Display the container in a sunny spot for 6-8 hours per day. Peonies like full sun but can tolerate partial shade in warmer regions.
Water the peony regularly to avoid waterlogging the soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
4. Placement and Care
A balanced, slow-release flowering plant fertiliser should be used on the peony. Package instructions specify application rates and timing.
Keep plants healthy by deadheading wasted blooms and removing faded or yellowing foliage.
Moving potted peonies to a garage or shed or insulating them with mulch or straw will help them survive winter in cold locations.
In winter, water peonies lightly to avoid soil drying out.