Is it possible to plant a peony in the spring. We plant peonies in flowerbeds with perennials. How to choose good peony rhizomes

Is it possible to plant a peony in the spring.  We plant peonies in flowerbeds with perennials.  How to choose good peony rhizomes
Is it possible to plant a peony in the spring. We plant peonies in flowerbeds with perennials. How to choose good peony rhizomes

Peonies are beautiful and spectacularly blooming. Many beginner gardeners want to grow these flowers. Consider some of the subtleties of breeding and caring for peonies.

When is the best time to plant peonies in spring or autumn?

This question is often asked by beginner gardeners. Experienced gardeners advise them transfer to another place in autumn from August to October. The time will depend on the climate zone.

Important: landing is made 40 days before the onset of cold weather. If winter comes early, then the transplant is carried out earlier.

Spring sprouts of a peony planted in autumn

Why is it better to plant in the fall? The fact is that by this time the bush has many new roots, the flower becomes strong, which favorably affects the survival rate. At this time of the year, the plant arrives at rest, and tolerates all the manipulations carried out with the rhizome well. Even flower divisions planted in autumn take root well and begin to bloom the next year.

Peonies planted spring, do not take root well, get very sick, and weak seedlings may even die. Why? By spring, it comes out of dormancy, it needs a lot of moisture and nutrients. And if the heat begins in early spring, then it is almost impossible to save the plant, the roots will dry out. When planting a flower in the spring, it needs abundant, daily watering.

Tip: There are several factors that determine successful cultivation: planting site, soil, transplanting time, depth and width of the hole, distance between plants, seedlings.

Peonies - the right fit

spring


Can it be transplanted in the spring?
There is an opinion that it is better to plant a plant in autumn, but this is not entirely true, and if you follow the planting rules, bushes planted in spring will delight you with chic bouquets. Peonies do not tolerate frequent transplantation. When choosing a place, this must be taken into account so as not to stress the flower. The place should be protected from drafts and sunny enough.

Peonies are perennial plants, and can grow in any soil, but it is worth remembering that acidic soils are contraindicated for peony. How to plant a flower? The landing is made after the snow melts. The plant is in a dormant state, before bud formation. Soil and seedlings are prepared in advance for spring planting. Let's consider this process in detail.

We dig a hole 70 cm, 60 cm (depth and width), the distance between the pits is at least 1.2 meters. Pour broken brick and gravel to the bottom, then pour humus mixed with superphosphate and potash fertilizers in the amount of 1 bucket. Half of the pit is filled, then it should be supplemented with earth from the pit. The bush itself should be planted to a depth of 10 cm, since contact with fertilizers can have a detrimental effect on the root system.

Tip: the soil should be filled up so that a hill of 12 centimeters is formed, you can use humus, mulch, or peat instead of soil. After that, we spill the soil abundantly.

For a positive result, use the advice of gardeners who have been growing peonies for a long time:

  1. Plays an important role air temperature- as soon as the air warms up to + 10, you can start disembarking. It is at this temperature that the plant will begin to build up the root system, which will favorably affect rooting.
  2. The soil must be loamy with lots of nutrients. It is worth noting that flowers will not grow quickly, but their decorative effect will delight. As for sandy soils, the bushes grow well on it, but the buds in such soil become smaller.
  3. Location – must be sunny, open, protected from the wind.

autumn

As stated earlier, the optimal time for planting peonies is autumn, or rather the month of September. Preparation for planting in the ground should begin in August, but the transplant itself is postponed until the second half of September.

Let's see why:

  • By this time, completely formed kidneys.
  • The upper part of the bush stops growing. Enters the state of sleep.
  • Still small roots are formed. Minimal risk of injuring the root system of the plant.
  • Hot weather is not expected, which is welcome when transplanting.
  • September is the rainy season, which increases the possibility of rooting when the peony is planted.

For good growth and rooting, the peony needs to create certain conditions - choose the right place how to transplant. Here are some recommendations from experienced gardeners:

  1. The site should be well lit, the plant loves the sun.
  2. The flower is afraid of drafts and wind. Landing should be carried out next to trees or shrubs, providing enough space for the root system of the flower.
  3. It is not recommended to plant a peony near the house - this is detrimental to him. The plant does not tolerate overheating, and heat constantly radiates from the walls of the house. Peony should be two meters from the house.

The composition of the soil is very important for a peony. Here are some professional tips to help you choose your soil:

  • Peony prefers loamy soil.
  • Heavy, clayey soil is lightened with sand, peat and humus. In such soil, the plant will feel great.
  • Humus and clay are added to the sandy soil.
  • Peaty lands are detrimental to peony, but if you add ash, sand and organic matter to them, then they are suitable for growing a flower.

Caring for peonies is quite difficult. If you planted your plant for the first time, then you need to protect it from frost, as the buds can freeze. With proper shelter, the next summer the flower will please with large buds.

Tip: Peony is sprinkled 15 centimeters with foliage or humus. Do not use manure, it can cause fungus to infect the plant.

Watering

Peony grows well in loose soils, and abundant watering is very important for it, especially during the period of rapid growth and flowering. But it is not recommended to flood the plant, since an excess of moisture can cause the stems to rot. Watering should be at least once a week, in dry weather watered twice a week. At the beginning of autumn, watering is stopped.

How to care after flowering

Peony care after flowering is extremely important. In order for your bush to bloom for a long time and profusely, you need to remove the buds that have faded in a timely manner. So the side shoots will have the opportunity to ripen and bloom.

How to care after the end of flowering - peony shoots are cut, leaving three leaves. This will enable good flowering next year. It is also necessary to remove all foliage and fallen inflorescences, so as not to provoke the appearance of diseases.

top dressing

Superphosphate

For lush flowering and good growth, a peony needs to know what to feed various fertilizers are suitable.

Fertilization steps:

  1. The first time fertilizers are applied before the snow melts. In spring, the flower needs potassium and nitrogen. For one bush take 20 g of potassium and 15 g of nitrogen, if there is no potash fertilizer available, then you can take a glass of wood ash. As soon as the snow melts, you can water the flower with a solution of complex fertilizer 70 g per 10 liters. water.

Important: do not fertilize in dry soil, the plant can get sick and die.

  1. As soon as buds begin to form at the peony, it must be fed with ammonium sulfate, superphosphate and potassium chloride, 15-20-15 grams, respectively. This rate is for one bush.
  2. As soon as two weeks pass after the start of flowering, a third top dressing is needed. 15 g of potassium chloride and 20 g of superphosphate. It is necessary to observe the proportions very carefully, otherwise an excess of fertilizers during this period can cause the peony to be prone to certain diseases.

Interesting: For abundant flowering, peonies are fertilized with a solution of chicken manure, manure and mineral fertilizers. To do this, take a barrel, into which 1 bucket of mullein and 6 buckets of water are poured, left for 15 days before fermentation. After that, half a kilo of ash and 300 g of phosphorus are added, after mixing, 7 buckets of water are added.

Preparing for winter

It is known that the peony is not a winter-hardy plant, therefore, in order to preserve the bushes, you need to prepare them for wintering.

  • As soon as the first frosts come, you need to cut off the entire ground part of the peony, leaving the cuttings no more than three centimeters. Cut shoots must be burned.
  • Sprinkle with humus or peat for 10-20 cm, depending on the severity of winter. This warming will favorably affect the bush, as it will serve not only as warming, but also as top dressing.

Tip: it is not recommended to cover the plant with manure, straw or leaves, this can provoke various diseases from which the peony can die.

video consultation

All the information necessary for beginners on growing peonies is in the material of Veronika Polivkina.

Peonies are a wonderful decoration of the landscape, perennials with green decorative foliage and large flowers are good in single and group plantings. Plants are hardy and non-capricious. Planting peonies and caring for them in the open field is not difficult, but is associated with certain rules. Experienced gardeners share the secrets and features of growing flowers.

Landing Rules

Even before buying a seedling, you should decide on the place and time of planting. When to plant peonies in spring or autumn, choose according to the circumstances. But if possible, it is better to postpone the work to September. When deciding where to plant flowers, consider the requirements for healthy growth and lush flowering bushes:

  1. The site should be well lit, a slight shade is acceptable for several hours a day.
  2. Stagnation of moisture is not allowed, the presence of groundwater is closer than 70-80 cm.
  3. The place should not be blown by the winds.
  4. Soil acidity is neutral or slightly alkaline pH 6.5-7. The structure of the soil is loose, loams are good.

The soil

2-3 weeks before the moment when you are going to plant a delenka, prepare a pit with fertile soil. You will need:

  • rotted manure (horse or cow) and compost 5-6 kg;
  • wood ash (2 cups);
  • dolomite flour 200-500 g, the amount depends on the acidity of the soil, the higher the indicator, the more fertilizer;
  • 100 g of superphosphate and potassium sulfide.

The structure of heavy clay soil is improved with sand (1 bucket), and clay is added to sandy soil. You will find interesting information about planting and growing perennials in the article.

Landing pattern

Peony bushes grow in one place for about 10 years. Under their roots, which grow significantly over such a period, a spacious pit is required. Its dimensions are 80:80:80 cm. A drainage layer (1-15 cm) is required at the bottom. Any materials that pass moisture well are suitable: sand, broken brick, expanded clay, pebbles. Earth is poured onto the drainage, along with all the prepared components. The fertile layer should be located under the root of the plant.

In dry weather, before planting a delenka, the soil is watered. In autumn, due to rains, the ground is quite wet, so watering from above is enough. A very important point is how deep to plant a peony. Recommended distance from renewal buds to the surface:

  • heavy soils - 3-5 cm;
  • light (sandy) - 5-7 cm.

Advice. If the pit was not prepared in advance, then the soil will shrink. Consider it when placing a seedling. In such a situation, the division is placed just above the recommended depth.

If a mass planting is planned, at what distance from each other should peonies be planted? Plants need plenty of nutrients from the soil and free air movement. In dense overgrown bushes, weak flowering is observed, diseases spread. The optimal distance between perennials is 80-100 cm. It is desirable that such a gap be observed in relation to other large bushes.

Care and cultivation

Not only the plot, but the flower itself needs to be prepared for planting. For preventive purposes, the seedling is treated with a solution of fungicides "Maxim", "Fundazol". This procedure prevents fungal infections. To accelerate root growth, stimulants "Epin", "Heteroauxin" are used. In the first year, the young plant is fed on the leaves. Minerals in the form of tablets are dissolved in water and sprayed on the bush.

The seedling requires regular watering, in the absence of precipitation, water it every week. Loosening the soil is carried out according to the same schedule - after heavy rain and watering. Weeds are constantly removed. Loosening helps to reduce their number.

Flower growers pass on the tricks of growing peonies to their children and grandchildren. Share secrets with enthusiasts. Lack of flowering or small buds is a common problem. What are the reasons given by experts?

  • Buried root planting.
  • The plant is young and has not gained enough strength to bloom.
  • The opposite situation - the bush is too old, requires separation and rejuvenation by pruning. The rate of aging depends on the variety, plants of the same age behave differently.
  • Diseases, it is worth carefully examining the ground part and the root. Pay attention to light and dark spots, soft areas.
  • Over-pruned peony last year. If a significant part of the stems and leaves was taken for cutting, then flower buds may not form.
  • Problems with agricultural technology: acidic soil, lack of moisture and nutrition.

One of the nuances of growing is planting a peony in February to keep the root until spring. This procedure is rarely carried out, most seedlings are bought before planting or stored in the refrigerator. The flower requires a spacious container with fertile soil. Until disembarkation in April, it is kept in a cool place.

Peonies are popular flowers, so they are used for distillation. Basically, terry French varieties of early flowering are taken, with a pleasant aroma. Growing peonies in a greenhouse requires additional lighting. Selected bushes are dug up in the fall and temporarily planted in pots with fertile soil. 2 months before the scheduled date of distillation, they are planted in a greenhouse. They grow at a temperature of 20-22 ° and good lighting. In spring, peonies are returned to open ground.

Growing Secrets:

  • To ensure the lush flowering of the bush, wilted buds are immediately removed.
  • When cutting, leave as much greenery as possible, necessary for the supply of food.
  • The amount of moisture and fertilizer, the health of the bush in the current season is directly related to the quality of flowering next year. The better the care of the plant, the larger the buds.
  • A circular support made of plastic or iron provides support for the stems. It cannot be replaced by tying.

Care after flowering

Depending on the variety of peonies, flowering ends in June-July. Some gardeners make a serious mistake by cutting stems at the root. This is absolutely impossible to do. Thanks to the lush green foliage, the plant actively accumulates the substances necessary for the formation of new flower buds. It is enough just to cut the flower stalks and remove the crumbled petals.

2 weeks after flowering, the last top dressing is performed. Phosphorus-potassium preparations and organic matter are introduced.

Transplanting peonies in the spring to another place

Peonies live for decades in one place, but the roots of an adult plant grow strongly. They become crowded, the supply of nutrients worsens, the bush does not bloom well. The only way out in this situation is a transplant with a division of the rhizome. This is a complicated procedure, because digging a perennial is quite problematic. When to transplant peonies in spring or autumn? The optimal time for any planting work with the plant is the beginning of autumn. Flowers have time to take root in a new place, and with the advent of winter, they do not have to spend energy on growing the ground part.

If the right moment is missed, is it possible to transplant peonies in the spring before flowering? This option is possible if the snow melts early and the ground thaws. A place is pre-selected away from groundwater, drafts and shade. When preparing the soil, mineral fertilizers are applied. Experienced gardeners know how to transplant plants so that they bloom next year. The secret is simple, you need to dig a bush with a clod of earth, while trying not to damage the suction roots. You can not deepen the kidneys more than 5 cm. The plant will take a long time to germinate and it will not bloom.

Information. Cutting off old, overgrown or rotten roots benefits the plant.

When transplanting peonies, do not forget about watering. Plants under stress require large amounts of water. It is advisable to mulch the soil, this will help retain moisture longer. Once a week loosen the ground around the bush. Before transplanting peonies, treat them with a solution of any fungicide "Maxim", "Fundazol", and the soil on the new shed with potassium permanganate. This will prevent fungal infection at a time when the plants are weak and vulnerable.

Planting peonies in autumn

The optimal time for planting peonies is from late August to mid-September. It can move in both directions in various climatic conditions. The choice is related to the characteristics of the growth and rooting of flowers. Peonies planted in autumn grow their root system in cool conditions. Their buds prepare for hibernation, nutrients are not spent on green mass and flowering. Autumn rains will provide enough moisture.

Advice. If the work took place in late autumn, you should make a shelter with a layer of up to 10 cm.

autumn care

The main work related to the care of peonies falls on spring and summer. During this period, watering, top dressing, weeding and loosening are carried out. At the end of the growing season, plants are prepared for winter. Mature bushes require a minimum of care. They must be cut and covered with wood ash. In cold regions, tree-like peonies protect from frost with a spruce hut or make a shelter from non-woven material.

Another point that inexperienced gardeners miss is that renewal buds, located at a shallow depth, eventually approach the surface. If initially they were lowered by 5 cm, then with the growth of roots and erosion of the soil, they may be 1-2 cm from the soil level. In winter, the kidneys will suffer from frost. Before the onset of cold weather, it is necessary to rake the earth to the bushes.

How to plant peonies in spring

Saplings bought in winter are grown at home. Having no experience in growing, people are wondering if it is possible to plant them in the spring or will they have to wait until autumn? If necessary, peonies are planted at the wrong time. When can they be transplanted outdoors? Right after the snow melts. You should not wait for high temperatures, in the spring the planting dates are April, early May (for cold regions).

The technology for selecting and preparing a site for planting in the ground is the same as during autumn work. The pit should be spacious, at the bottom of the drainage, the soil is fertile, loose. How deep to plant? Taking into account the shrinkage of the soil, place the root 2 cm above the recommended depth so that the buds are 2-3 cm from the surface. After planting and watering, mulch the soil. How to properly care for a seedling? In the first year, watering, loosening, weeding is necessary.

How to save peonies before planting

A real flower lover will not be able to pass by the opportunity to purchase a good variety of peonies at a reasonable price. In winter, stores often sell seedlings in boxes or bags. Their roots are wrapped in sphagnum moss, peat, or a small amount of soil. If the seedling spent a lot of time in a warm, dry room, this had a bad effect on the condition of its rhizome. Purchased material must be inspected and evaluated for its appearance. If the root looks good, but the buds have not woken up, overexposure of pions until planting in the spring takes place in the refrigerator.

Advice. Buy divisions of adult bushes that are over 4 years old. They look less attractive than the roots of young plants, but quickly take root and begin to bloom.

But more often the situation arises when the root looks sick, and the kidneys began to grow. Vegetation occurs due to the reserves of the rhizome. They will soon dry out and the plant will die. It is necessary to make a decision how to save the roots before planting in the ground. There is only one way out - to temporarily plant in a spacious container, and in the spring move it to the garden. Use pots with a volume of at least 5 liters or plastic eggplants. At the bottom it is necessary to make holes for water drainage.

A bottle or pot is filled with ready-made universal soil for flowers. The seedling is disinfected in a solution of the fungicide "Maxim" or "Skor". It is recommended to treat it with a growth stimulator after. Pour earth into the container and plant the root. Well moisturize. The peony is kept in a cool light room. This is the best way for those who are interested in how to save seedlings bought in March. Under natural conditions, plants need a "cold start". At low temperatures, suction roots grow, providing nutrition.

Advice. Place a plastic bag with holes in the container before filling the soil. When transplanting, it will be easier to take out a seedling with a clod of earth.

How to plant shop-bought peonies in spring

What to do with a seedling bought in a box in the spring? It makes no sense to wait for autumn, because peonies take root even during spring planting. At the beginning of the growing season, the soil temperature is still low, so the plant will have time to grow roots before the buds come to life. The success of cultivation primarily depends on the purchase of high-quality planting material. When choosing, the information on the packaging is evaluated. A bona fide manufacturer must indicate:

  • peony variety;
  • number and age of divisions;
  • plant description;
  • landing instructions.

The roots of herbaceous tulips are sold in plastic bags. Through a transparent film, you can see their color and condition, as well as the number of renewal buds. There must be at least two of them. The normal length of thin lateral roots is from 5-6 cm.

Attention. There should be no nodular formations, dark areas, cracks on the division. If the planting material is soft or dry to the touch, it is better to refuse it.

Planting technology in the spring

The place for the purchased plant is selected in advance. It should be well lit, not damp. The roots of flowers grow over a considerable distance, so a deep and spacious pit is required, which is filled with:

  • a layer of drainage (sand, broken brick, gravel);
  • garden soil with compost, ash, superphosphate.

The pit is 2/3 filled with soil, the root is laid. From his kidneys to the surface should be 3-5 cm. The hole is covered with the remaining soil. The seedling is watered abundantly (10-15 liters of water). The top is mulched with compost. The first month requires regular moisturizing.

Planting peonies from the box, growing in containers, occurs by transshipment. This is the least traumatic way. Usually, foliage appears on the stems by the time of planting. In some cases, buds are tied that must be removed. A hole is dug under the seedling, drainage is arranged at the bottom. The peony is carefully removed from the container, pulling out the edges of the plastic bag. The plastic is torn apart, and the seedling with the earth is placed in a hole. The free space is covered with a fertile mixture according to the recipe for a regular planting. Watered with plenty of water.

Peony seeds how to germinate at home and in the garden

Growing peonies from seeds is usually practiced by breeders. For an ordinary gardener, this method of reproduction is complex and long, and the result is doubtful. A new bush does not always inherit the varietal characteristics of the mother plant. For enthusiasts, propagating peonies with seeds will seem like an exciting activity. The fruit of the plant is a green leaflet in the shape of a star. After ripening, it is filled with oval shiny black seeds, as in the photo.

Advice. Do not wait for the seeds to ripen, pick them light brown. Collection time is the second and third decade of August.

The main problem that will have to be faced is the low germination of seeds. This is especially true for purchased material. Open the bag and see what the seeds look like. If they are dry and shriveled, soak for 2-3 days. You can add a few drops of Zircon growth stimulator to the water. Why do such problems arise? The seeds of herbaceous and tree-like peonies have a very strong shell, and the embryo is weak.

You can grow a seedling in open ground or at home. Under natural conditions, it will germinate for 2 years. After the first winter, a root will appear, and after the second bud of growth. Information on how to grow a peony at home will help shorten this period. The secret lies in creating conditions for effective stratification. Seeds are alternately exposed to prolonged exposure to heat and cold.

Advice. Before planting, hold the seeds for 12 hours in a solution of Epin and Zircon.

To germinate the seeds, you will need a container with a layer of earth (3 cm) and a layer of sand (3 cm). The soil is watered abundantly. The swollen planting material is laid out on the surface, covered with sand by 1 cm. The container is covered with a film or glass. Then for two months it is kept at a temperature of 28-30 ° C during the day and 15 ° C at night. Periodically moisten the soil. After the warm phase, roots appear.

Before the start of the cold phase, the seeds are planted in separate containers and taken out for a visit with a temperature of 6-8 ° C. The duration of this stage is up to 4 months. With a positive result, the first leaf appears. Until the time comes to plant a flower in a permanent place, it is kept in a pot. In warm weather, take out to the garden for hardening.

Basic rules for growing peonies from seeds:

  • Use fresh planting material.
  • You can rub the dry shell with sandpaper.
  • Stratify the seeds according to the scheme warm-cold-warm or cold-warm-cold.
  • Use plant growth stimulants.

How to plant peonies in spring

When choosing a period when to plant flowers in spring or autumn, give preference to the second option. Simultaneously with the transplant, the division of the peony bush occurs. The procedure has its own nuance - each part should be approximately the same size. Do not make large cuts, they are the ones that do not bloom next summer. The plant lacks nutrients at the root, it does not strive to develop. Before transplanting peonies, cut off part of the roots. It is enough to leave 10-15 cm. This procedure stimulates the growth of the plant. Treat the cut points with ash or a fungicide.

How to plant flowers correctly

Under the seedling, a spacious pit 60:60:60 cm is prepared in advance. Drainage is arranged at the bottom. The excavated soil is mixed with compost, ash and mineral fertilizers. If the soil is clayey, you will need a bucket of sand to dilute. Acidic soil is neutralized by adding 300-500 g of dolomite flour. Diluted mullein or chicken manure is suitable as an organic additive.

Important. Flowers are planted at a distance of 1 m from each other. Such a scheme will ensure that nutrients are received in sufficient quantities.

Around the bush at a distance of 40-50 cm they dig the ground. The root is loosened and taken out with a shovel, but it is better to use a pitchfork. The rhizome is washed and inspected. All dark and soft areas are removed. Sections are treated with a fungicide. Can be completely placed in a solution of manganese for 30-40 minutes. Adult peonies have a fairly strong root; cutting it requires a sharp knife, and in some cases a saw. Experts advise leaving the rhizome in the air for 2-3 hours. It will wilt and become softer.

Before the division of pions, cut lines are marked. Enough roots and buds should remain on each part. It is recommended to briefly lower the divided seedlings into "Heteroauxin", this is a fertilizer and growth stimulator. After planting in a prepared place, the plant is watered abundantly. In the spring, he will not need top dressing, because all the necessary nutritional components are laid in the pit. In the fall, it is worth making organic top dressing.

How else can peonies be propagated - cuttings and layering. Before flowering, the stem of an adult bush is cut into cuttings 10-15 cm long. Each should have 2 internodes. The leaves are cut in half. The lower part of the cut for 1-2 hours is placed in a solution of the drug that stimulates root formation "Kornevin", "Epin". The stalk is stuck into a container with wet sand mixed with compost. For better germination, create greenhouse conditions - cover with plastic wrap.

The soil is regularly moistened with a spray bottle, the shelter is removed for ventilation. By autumn, the cuttings should take root, they can be planted in a permanent place. Due to the low survival rate of plants, this method is rarely used. they don't breed. There is another modification of the method. In the spring, in early April, a fence from a box with a removed bottom is installed over the plant. Fill it with fertile soil. The buds that appear on the stems are removed. In the fall, the fence is removed. Shoots are exposed to the place of formation of new roots. The processes are cut off, transplanted into prepared wells.

One of the breeding options for tree peonies is layering. The method is simple and effective. In spring, the side shoot is cut in the middle. This area is treated with a root stimulator. The shoot bends, is fixed and sprinkled with soil. Water during the growing season. By autumn, roots are formed, layering can be cut off from the mother bush.

Peony care in spring

What to do with peonies in spring depends on the species grown. The main works are exactly the same, but there are characteristic nuances. In persistently warm weather, winter shelter is removed from tree peonies. Novice gardeners are worried about when to open peonies in spring, at what temperature? These flowers are resistant even to sub-zero temperatures, so in April you can safely get rid of auxiliary materials that protected the bushes in winter. The shoots are inspected and sanitary pruned to the first bud. Dried stems can be shortened to the level of the soil.

Herbaceous varieties need fertilizing and watering. The article will tell about the types and optimal timing of fertilization. Additional nutrition is required for adult bushes over the age of two years. Mineral compounds are used first. Urea granules are dissolved in water or scattered on the ground. Such a fertilizer will give the necessary amount of nitrogen, which is responsible for the formation of green mass.

In total, during the growing season, flowers should receive 3 top dressings: at the beginning of the season, during the laying of buds and at the end of summer. The drug that is recommended for plants is Kemira. It contains a balanced amount of essential minerals. To improve the structure of the soil and the development of beneficial microflora, Baikal EM-1 is used. Additionally, foliar top dressing is performed. Mineral tablets are dissolved in water and the leaves and stems are sprayed.

Caring for peonies in the spring after winter includes cleaning debris and loosening the soil. It is necessary to wait for the appearance of the first leaves, so as not to damage them during work. During the growing season, the plant needs moisture. In April, peonies require regular watering, this is the main care at the beginning of the season. After moistening, do not forget to loosen the soil. It is also worth thinking about the installation of the support. Stems in windy areas or under the weight of lush inflorescences fall to the ground. The size of the support should be half the height of the bush.

Giving advice on care in the spring, experienced gardeners note the importance of preventing plant diseases. Fungal spores are often found in the soil, waiting for favorable moisture levels to rise. To prevent dangerous infections (gray and root rot, spotting) will allow the treatment of pions with Bordeaux liquid. The soil is disinfected with a solution of manganese. Detailed recommendations for the treatment of flowers can be found in the article.

Advice. To make the buds larger, remove the lateral ovary.

What year do peonies bloom after planting?

The impatience of gardeners waiting for the first flowers to appear on peony bushes is well understood. The time of appearance of pions depends on the age of the planting material. If you bought a 3-4 year old seedling and planted it in the fall in well-fertilized soil, there is a chance to see flowers in a year. The tree-like peony blooms even later, for 5-6 years. According to the rules, when peonies begin to bloom for the first time, their buds are cut off. This makes it possible to direct all forces to the development of the root.

The flowering period depends on the variety: the early ones throw out buds in early June, the middle ones - in the second half of the month, the late ones - in early July. The flowering period is 8-15 days. It depends on the variety, terry forms bloom longer than simple ones. The real record holder, pleasing with its buds for almost a month, is the Bartzella variety. ITO-hybrid with yellow petals blooms with medium peonies, and fades with later ones.

There is an opinion that perennials should be planted and transplanted only in the autumn months, but experience shows that with the right approach, planting peonies in the spring can be quite successful.

1 Autumn or spring: planting features at different times of the year

2

Experts recommend carrying out all garden work on planting and transplanting peonies in the fall. The root system of bushes becomes stronger over the summer, by the end of the season it goes into a state of rest and reacts to any actions with it more adequately than at other times of the year.

Peonies take longer to take root in the spring, as a result of which their flowering is delayed, it may not be as bright, and the plants themselves are more prone to diseases. However, it should be taken into account that the period from April to May is the same full-fledged period for the growth of suction roots as August-September, therefore, subject to the rules of planting and proper subsequent care, gardeners have the right to count on a future beautiful flower garden of peonies planted in spring . An additional argument in favor of spring work is the possibility not to wait for autumn if planting material is purchased in winter or early spring.

3 Kinds of flowers

There are a fairly large number of classifications of pions. The most common of them in origin and form.

Treelike

Sino-European:

Japanese:

herbaceous

Peony evasive (Maryin root):

Peony officinalis:

Peony angustifolia

Peony Mlokosevich:

Peony lactiflora:

Hybrids: intersectional or ITO

4 Correctly choose the timing of spring planting

It is recommended to plant peonies in the spring months, taking into account that the plants have a margin of time to take root, that is, immediately after the snow grows, without waiting for stable positive weather. The optimal months for such garden events in central Russia are April-May. For warm and cold regions, these terms are shifted accordingly.

The 2018 lunar calendar considers good days for landings:

  • February - 16, 18;
  • March - 1, 15, 16;
  • April - 25–27;
  • May - 18–20, 27.

5 General principles and rules

Landing options can be divided into two groups:

  1. Depending on weather conditions:
    • in open ground;
    • in containers with subsequent transplantation into open ground.
  2. According to the method of reproduction:
    • dividing the bush - one of the most common options, possible from 5-7 years old;
    • pruning a bush;
    • root cuttings with a kidney - used to obtain a large amount of planting material;
    • stem cuttings - a complex method that is not suitable for propagating most hybrids;
    • layering - a simple option, suitable for bushes from 5-8 years old;
    • seeds - a laborious method, used mainly by breeders.

6 Important stage: site selection and land preparation

For the successful growth and development of peonies, it is necessary to choose the right place for the flower bed and prepare the soil. Peonies are photophilous plants that do not tolerate strong drafts. The best place for them on your site will be its eastern part, preferably slightly elevated to avoid stagnant water, at least relatively far from trees and buildings.

An important condition for these flowers is their planting in soil with a moderate level of acidity, to regulate which you can add wood ash or sand to the soil.

7 Planting peony seedlings in open ground

There are several options for such landing work. If you already have ready-made delenki, then the stages of work will be as follows:


1 - drainage layer, 2 - nutrient layer, 3 - top layer, 4 - seedling planting depth level

Using this method of planting peonies in open ground, pay attention to the quality of the planting material, since the right seedling is the key to a future beautiful flower. When purchasing a division in a store or on the market, examine it carefully for the presence of 2-3 renewal buds and at least 2 adventitious roots, the length of which should be at least 5 cm. The seedling must be whole and healthy, not wet and not too dry, without growths and nodes.

Spring planting of a peony delenka in pits prepared in the fall (video)

8 Reproduction of peonies in spring

In the event that in the spring you are going to plant your own peonies, then you should also consider some of the most common ways.

Reproduction by pruning

  1. Dig the plant to a depth of 6-8 cm.
  2. With a sharp shovel, cut the bush in a horizontal plane.
  3. Divide into divisions.
  4. Land on a separate bed, followed by a transplant to a permanent place.
  5. Sprinkle the roots with wood ash, cover with earth.

Planting root cuttings

This method of propagation is suitable for varieties bred on the basis of medicinal peony. Produced in March-April.

  1. We dig in the rhizome of the plant.
  2. We cut off the adventitious roots, the thickness of which is more than 1 cm.
  3. We divide the segments into pieces 5-7 cm long.
  4. We plant at a depth of 4-5 cm.
  5. We water well.
  6. The buds of a seedling with this planting option will be laid within 2-4 years.

Propagation by stem cuttings

Such garden work can be started about 2 weeks before the peony blooms, that is, in mid-May, the time is early in the morning.

  1. We cut off a strong shoot near the root neck, not located for flowering.
  2. We process the cut with wood ash or coal.
  3. We shorten the cutting to a height of 9-10 cm, cutting off its upper part.
  4. We plant it end down in a hole 4-5 cm deep in moist soil in a greenhouse or greenhouse.
  5. We regularly air the plant and spray it 2 times a day.
  6. With obvious rooting, the greenhouse is removed.

layering

Such reproduction of pions is possible in two types of layering: conventional and air.

To receive the usual layering begin in late spring. The extreme shoots of the peony are tilted to holes dug in advance in the ground with a depth of about 15 cm, the tops are fixed in the holes, covered with soil, which includes humus, and watered abundantly.

Reproduction in the spring of a tree-like peony by layering (video)

An excellent option for propagating tall peonies is the Chinese method of air layering, which should be started 2-4 weeks before the flowers appear.

  1. We choose a bush whose age is between 5 and 8 years.
  2. We put on a box or box without a bottom, the dimensions of which depend on the size of the bush.
  3. We pour into a box to a height of 10-11 cm a soil mixture consisting of humus, garden soil and sand.
  4. We water abundantly.
  5. As new shoots grow, we add soil mixture with natural or mineral fertilizers.
  6. In the autumn we remove the box, cut off new shoots with buds and send them for growing.

seeds

When choosing this method of planting pions, a number of features should be considered:

  • peony seeds are characterized by extremely low germination;
  • their enzymatic activity is at the same level, that is, the emergence of even healthy seeds will have to wait about 2 years, if you do not resort to additional measures (stratification);
  • it is unlikely to obtain plants with outstanding decorative properties.

Transplanting peonies in the spring (video)

9 Features of landing of various types

There are no fundamental differences in the stages of planting peonies of various types, except perhaps in the depths of the holes for planting low and tall varieties, but even if you have acquired a very long division of some exotic peony, there is no need to dig a huge hole, it is enough to place the seedling at an angle and it will grow just fine.

However, when purchasing planting material, you should carefully study the information about it. It is possible that the conditions of the region of your residence simply do not suit him. This is especially true for intersectional hybrids.

In addition, soberly assess the landscape possibilities of your site, check whether certain peonies will fit into its appearance. It is also worth reading the reviews of those who have already planted the variety you like. Sometimes, in pursuit of a particularly outstanding, for example, terry flowers, gardeners are disappointed that the stems are unable to withstand such heavy buds falling to the ground, losing the expected showiness of a bush.

10 Aftercare

Care for the future bush immediately after planting consists in abundant watering and, if desired, in mulching. Later, top dressing and fertilizers may be needed.

Important. Sometimes the seedling does not absorb the water with which it is watered. Try shading it a bit by covering it with a mesh trash can. Keep in mind that rain water is the best water for watering peonies, especially if the tap water in your area is very hard.

What to feed

For the first few years, the plant will have enough of the substances that you added during the preparation of the planting hole. After the plant has fully developed, the requirements of the peony will increase.

Feeding steps:

  • In April - mid-May, when the plant grows green mass, it is necessary to apply about 50 g of nitrogen-containing fertilizers;
  • At the end of May, during budding, phosphorus and potassium are added, in addition, you can use a solution of mullein, which is prepared in advance. To do this, we dilute a bucket of manure in six buckets of water and leave it for 10 days to ferment, while the mixture must be stirred once a day. Before applying the solution under the bush, dilute it with water.

Much attention is also paid to the foliar feeding of peonies, which is carried out in the second year after planting. This method must be carried out in calm weather using a sprayer. It includes several stages, the interval between which should be about two weeks:

  • The first stage is carried out immediately after the appearance of the "green part" of the plant - treatment with a solution of urea;
  • The second stage - after 14 days, and one tablet of microelements is added to carbamide;
  • For the third spraying, 2 microelement tablets are used, which are dissolved in a 10-liter bucket of water, and Heteroauxin is used to stimulate the growth of the root system. Weak buds in the first two years of life should be removed with clippers, because they will interfere with the growth of roots.

Organic and mineral nutrition

The third year of the flower's life is marked by colorful and abundant flowering and splendor. So, it's time to use mineral fertilizers, the amount of which depends on the weather: in dry times, the amount of top dressing decreases, in rainy times it increases. Stages of work:

  1. The use of nitrogen-potassium fertilizers - 15 g of potassium and 10 g of nitrogen are enough for one bush. Fertilizers must be carefully applied around the flower even during the melting of snow;
  2. At the second stage, phosphate fertilizers are added. Flowers are fed while tying buds - in no case should this stage be skipped, because it is important for obtaining luxurious bright flowers;
  3. The third stage is carried out two weeks after the end of flowering. Fertilizers for peonies at this time are needed to grow healthy renewal buds, which provide an increase in the frost resistance of the bushes.

Considerable importance is also given to organic fertilizers, which are required for the formation of buds. To prepare them, use fresh mullein diluted in water. This mixture is infused for 10 days, after which it is applied under each plant. It is very important here that the solution does not get on the root neck, which can lead to “burns”. "Organic" is brought in only once a season - during budding. Do not forget that it is important to combine feeding and watering plants, because peonies need a lot of liquid for their absorption.

The material was supplemented and updated on 02/28/2018

The history of growing peonies has more than two millennia, during which a great many varieties and varieties have been created. But no matter how much peonies have changed, planting and caring for them in the open field have not changed much since then.

In order to enjoy the lush carved foliage and spectacular flowering year after year, the summer resident will have to master all the intricacies of agricultural technology and find out the preferences of these amazing ornamental plants.

All pion species that exist in nature come from Eurasia and the American continent, represented by herbaceous perennials and subshrubs. In Russian gardens, plants have long proved their unpretentiousness and the ability to grow and bloom in one place from 10 to 20 years without transplanting.

A place for planting and caring for peonies in the open field

The place for planting peonies is chosen so that the plant is as comfortable as possible for not only one season, but also several years. Since this culture belongs to light and heat-loving, up to 3 hours a day it can endure a transparent garden shade, but is afraid of the cold wind and draft, the peony is selected according to its requirements and shaded for the hottest, midday hours.

For several years, the root system of peonies can deepen up to 70–80 cm. To simplify the care of peonies in the open field, before planting, pay attention to the danger of flooding the site and stagnant scarlet or groundwater. Constant moisture greatly increases the risk of root rot and the death of the entire bush.

Actively growing peonies need space, tightness leads to a deterioration in flowering, the appearance of diseases and pests.

Peony planting conditions:

  1. Planting pits are made at a distance of at least 1–1.5 meters from shrubs and other perennial plants.
  2. Leave a gap of at least 2-3 meters to the nearest tree.
  3. Do not plant peonies directly under the walls of buildings and fences.
  4. Between the bushes, depending on the type and variety, leave from 70 to 180 cm of free space.

A bright, wind-protected area has been found, it's time to take care of the soil in which the peony is to grow. The soil with a neutral or slightly acidic reaction should be loose, aerated, nutritious. Sandy soil is flavored with humus, peat, wood ash and deoxidized with dolomite flour. Mix in garden soil as needed. Dense clay soil can be made more airy with the help of river sand and a small amount of peat. Sand structure the nutritious, but quickly caking chernozem.

Rules for planting peonies for outdoor care

Unlike many horticultural crops, when planting which it is important to leave the growth point at the level of the soil or above it, peonies are deeply buried. The buds, from which the stems will subsequently develop, are sunk into it by 3–7 cm, depending on the density of the soil.

If this is not done, the most sensitive and important part of the plant will be left without protection in the rain, snow and sun. However, even with an excessively deep planting of a peony in open ground, caring for it can be not only time-consuming, but also in vain. Such plants form lush foliage in spring, but bloom weakly or refuse to form buds at all.

Peony planting rules:

  1. Planting pits for peonies are made up to 80 cm deep for tree plants and up to 60 cm for more common herbaceous varieties. The width of the pit is 60 and 50 cm, respectively.
  2. The bottom, in order to avoid stagnant water, is covered with drainage.
  3. The pit is filled two-thirds with the prepared substrate, mixed with 100–150 grams of superphosphate, one spoonful of iron sulfate and a liter can of bone meal or sifted wood ash.
  4. When the straightened peony roots fall into the ground, they are covered with loose soil for another 15–20 cm so that the buds are securely hidden below the ground level.

Care for peonies in the open field in spring or autumn begins immediately after planting. The soil is carefully compacted and watered at the rate of 8-10 liters of water per bush. If the plants have autumn rooting and wintering ahead, they are densely mulched with a 10-centimeter layer of peat. With the onset of spring, perennial care continues.

Planting peonies in the ground: spring or autumn

The most convenient planting time for the grower and favorable for the peony is the beginning of autumn. By this time, the root system of the perennial is growing, and he himself is recovering after flowering and accumulating strength.

If you have to plant in the open field and care for peonies in the fall, it should be done 30–40 days before the onset of stable cold weather. In this case, an adult transplanted plant or a young seedling obtained from dividing a bush is guaranteed to take root and not freeze through in winter.

The timing of planting decorative perennials depends on the climate of a particular region. The shorter the summer, the earlier it is worth taking care of the preparation of pits and planting material.

Boarding times:

  1. Planting peonies in open ground in Siberia takes place in August, September and October, and in the northern regions it ends 1.5–2 months earlier than in the south.
  2. In the Urals, where the weather is extremely changeable, seedlings are taken out into the ground from the second half of August to mid-September.
  3. A week later, flowering perennials can be planted in the middle lane and in the North-West of the country.
  4. And in the south of Russia, peonies can be planted without fear for the condition of the plant from September to mid-October.

When buying seedlings from a nursery or due to the early arrival of cold weather, planting is transferred to spring. Unfortunately, if the plants have an open root system, they do not tolerate such a procedure very well. Weakened peonies after wintering take a long time to acclimatize, and sometimes even for the whole summer they cannot recover.

To eliminate unpleasant consequences, planting peonies in the ground in the spring is carried out very early, in the soil moist after the snow melts, until hot weather sets in, and the plants themselves do not grow.

The exception is peonies with a closed root system in containers. They can be safely planted from spring to autumn.

Care for peonies after planting in open ground

Vegetation of peonies begins in early May and ends in late autumn. Caring for peonies in the open field in spring begins with very careful loosening of the soil, watering if necessary, and fertilizing.

Peonies are watered infrequently, but very plentifully, in order to completely wet the earthen ball and the roots that have braided it. Since the plant has to grow foliage and prepare for flowering, the peony needs complete mineral fertilizers and nitrogen.

Top dressing of peonies in the open field is done on wet ground. In order for the mixture to get to the suction roots faster, a shallow hole is made around the bush, at a distance of 10-15 cm, into which the solution is poured. In the summer, especially for young plants that have not reached the age of 3–4 years, foliar top dressing with urea is useful. They are applied three times with a frequency of 15–20 days from the moment the shoots appear.

During dry periods, peonies are watered at the rate of 10-15 liters per bush. It is especially important to maintain soil moisture in the first month after spring planting.

On flowering peonies, wilted flowers are regularly removed. On young plants, under 3 years old, all weak buds are also removed. All summer I weed the area under perennials, and in the fall, before the onset of cold weather, the shoots are cut off, and the soil is mulched. If the planting is carried out correctly, and the plants receive competent and sufficient care, the first flowering of the peony will begin in 2-3 years, gradually becoming brighter and more magnificent.

Planting a peony in autumn - video

Read how to properly plant peonies so that they bloom: location, soil, distance, depth and seedling selection. We find out when it is better to plant in spring or autumn in open ground and call the timing of planting peonies. Plus, we describe how to care after planting and when they bloom.

Rules for planting peonies: place, soil, distance, depth

On the Internet, there are not always accurate and correct advice regarding planting flowers. Therefore, we have collected rules proven by many years of experience in growing peonies, not only by amateurs, but also by researchers who specialize in them in botanical gardens and nurseries throughout the former USSR.

The experts kindly shared the secrets of agricultural technology with us, and we share with you so that as many people as possible can successfully plant a peony in the garden. After all, these beautiful flowers bring amazing aesthetic pleasure and cheer up!

So, for the successful growth and development of a plant, several key factors must be taken into account: place, soil, timing, planting hole, distance, planting depth, and the seedling itself.

Place for planting peonies

The flower is very viable, it is able to grow for several decades without a transplant and bloom profusely every year. Therefore, you need to choose a place for him with all seriousness.

It should be well lit and warmed by the sun, be protected from drafts. It is desirable that the sun illuminates the plant in the morning and evening, and a slight shading at the peak of the heat will prolong its flowering. Best of all - the eastern side, with the morning sun and afternoon penumbra.

  • Wet place, where there are even short-term stagnation of water (spring/autumn). The flooded roots will begin to rot and lead to the death of the flower.
  • Shaded place. Shade is contraindicated for grassy and tree-like peonies, even if they are heavily shaded for 2-3 hours a day, they will wither, and you will have to forget about flowering.
  • The distance from trees is closer than three meters, and large shrubs and a house are 1.5-2 m. The roots of a tree or shrub will take minerals from the ground, which will result in a lack of them for the flower. And the walls of the house emit heat, and create a temperature difference.

Peony soil and acidity

Flowers grow well on soil with a neutral and slightly acidic reaction - pH 6.2-6.8. Therefore, check and normalize the acidity of the soil. Be aware that fertilizing with mineral fertilizers increases acidity.

Tree and herbaceous peonies love loamy soil with a high level of moisture and breathability. In too clayey soil, add sand and compost.

It is not advised to plant in peat soil due to the high level of acidity. To reduce it, add wood ash, sand, humus and slaked lime. More details in the section - step-by-step instructions for landing.

How far apart are peonies planted?

Low-growing varieties when planted in a row - 70-80 cm. In other cases - 90-110 cm. And vigorous herbaceous and tree-like varieties - 1.3-1.8 meters. The distance between peonies during planting is important for their further development. Remember that it is better to retreat more than less.

How deep should peonies be planted?

The depth of the upper bud on the rhizome is 3-4 cm (heavy soil) or 5-7 cm (light soil). The golden rule has been repeatedly tested all over the world.

The correct planting depth of a peony lays the foundation for successful growth and development. The rhizome of the plant gradually grows upwards, and the earth, when weeded, is sometimes raked away from the buds, they are left unprotected and suffer from heat or frost.

At the same time, too deep planting provides excellent development, but leads to a lack of flowering.

For convenience, you can put the board, pull the rope and navigate along it.

Peony planting depth adjustment

How to plant peonies? Instruction

  1. Pit. Cone-shaped, depth - 70-80, width 50-60 cm (tree-like peonies and tall herbaceous), and undersized herbaceous: depth - 60-70, width - 40-50 cm. Flower roots can penetrate up to 80-90 cm, but only in loose soil.
    Therefore, if there is a smaller depth of the pit, then they will grow to the sides, which is fraught with a lack of moisture and mineral elements.
  2. Feed layer. 70% of the depth of the pit is filled with a nutrient soil mixture, but so that there is a minimum of 15-20 cm to the surface.
    Ingredients: humus, sand (except sandy soils), peat and sod land in equal parts + 100-150 g of superphosphate + 300-350 g of bone meal or wood ash + iron vitriol - 1 tbsp. l.
  3. Upper layer. Sprinkle ordinary earth on top, at least 15-20 cm layer, and plant the peony at the correct depth.
  4. The soil should be carefully and gently compacted with your hands so as not to damage the kidneys, and then poured abundantly (8-10 liters of water). Then sprinkle some wood ash to protect it from drying out.
  5. By the first winter, the peony needs to be prepared: spud with earth or pour a 10-12 cm layer of peat.

EXPLANATIONS

DRAINAGE. If groundwater rises close to the roots, then in order to lower their level in the aisle, they dig a drainage hole and fill it to the top with crushed stone, pebbles or broken bricks. And the flower itself is planted on a high ridge, but at the same time the root neck of the bush should be above the aisle to drain water when the snow melts.

Many articles on planting write about creating drainage at the bottom of the planting pit, but for grassy peonies there is no need to do it, but for tree peonies it is possible. Drainage is vital in wetlands, but in principle it is undesirable to plant on them.

FERTILIZERS. Fertilizers during planting play an important role and lay the foundation for good flower development. The roots receive nutrients and fill it with strength.

Phosphate fertilizers must also be added to the top dressing layer so that brown spots do not appear on the leaves over time. When top dressing after planting, phosphorus often forms insoluble compounds and settles in the topsoil.

It is better to use organic phosphorus fertilizers (bone meal) than mineral fertilizers (superphosphate), as they decompose more slowly and the plant receives nutrition for a long time.

UPPER LAYER. There should be no fertilizer in the upper layer of the planting pit (15-20), so ordinary loose earth is poured on top so that the roots grow down and oxygen is supplied to them.

Diagram of a pit for planting a peony

TIPS

  • Experts advise digging a hole 20-30 days before planting so that the soil sinks a little. That is, add drainage (if necessary), a top dressing layer to the dug hole, cover it with ordinary earth from above, and after a few weeks plant a bush at the desired depth.
  • In order for the roots to take root better, it is better to treat them with a clay solution or soak them in a growth stimulator (Heteroauxin, Succinic Acid, Rooter, aloe juice). Composition: natural clay + blue vitriol and "Heteroauxin" - two tablets each. The components are mixed with water (“batter”) and the roots of the “delenka” are completely lowered into the resulting solution before planting. Then they are dried for 5-10 minutes.
  • Attention! Handle the roots delicately as they are quite fragile.
  • It is useful to add rotted weeds weeded out of clay soil to the bottom layer of top dressing. It is clay soil that retains more nutrients, unlike sand, peat or podzol.
  • At a pH level below 6.5, add 100 grams of slaked lime to the dressing layer, and if below 6.0 - 200 grams per bush.

How to make compost for planting?

In a well-heated area, make a narrow pile of weeds. Air will penetrate well into it, and aerobic bacteria will develop. If there is no rain, then water the compost heap to attract earthworms.

Mineral fertilizers and wood ash are added to the finished compost only at the time of laying the planting pit.

When is the best time to plant peonies in spring or autumn?

Experts believe that the best time for planting is August, September or October (depending on the climate zone). The general rule is 30-40 days before the arrival of frost, the earlier winter comes, the earlier planting.

By autumn, the plant forms many new roots and becomes stronger, which increases its survival rate. It is also at rest, and will more easily endure manipulations with the rhizome. They are even mailed without harm.

Some experts advise that it is the purchased delenki that should be planted in September or October (beginning - middle). With proper care, they winter well and grow the next year.

How to plant peonies in the fall in the ground?

Before landing, check the weather forecast for 1-2 months in advance to avoid false starts. In recent years, there are often long thaws in late October and early November, so that flowers planted in August can begin to grow.

Approximate planting dates in autumn: in August, September and October

  • Siberia, Ural: August 20 - September 20.
  • Middle Strip, North-West, Moscow region, Middle strip: August 25th - September 25th.
  • South of Russia and Ukraine: September 1st - October 10th.

Planting a peony in the spring: what to do?

The general recommendation of experts: to plant and transplant peonies from August to the end of September, and in the spring it is highly undesirable. Such bushes develop longer, bloom worse and get sick more often. The risk of planting peonies in the spring is also that the overgrown stems are easy to break.

At the same time, many flower growers successfully planted in the spring and believe that the general laws of nature are stronger than individual characteristics. Indeed, nature has maximum strength, and the suction roots grow back no worse than in autumn.

Opinion of the magazine "Feast of Flowers": "Seedlings bought in the spring without a pot (with an open root system) are best planted in the fall, and with a closed one it is allowed in spring and summer."

When to plant peonies in spring in open ground? Timing

Pay special attention to the deadline. If you still decide, then experts advise planting immediately after the snow melts. When the earth is full of moisture, there is no heat, and the flower has not yet begun to grow. Those who plant in the spring find it better to plant a little earlier rather than later.

  • It is important for the "spring" peony to provide further good care (watering, top dressing) - this significantly increases the chances of survival and successful wintering.

How to save peonies until planting in spring?

Often the roots of herbaceous and tree peonies are ordered in Asia (China, Japan) and Europe in winter and early spring, and they do not always arrive at the right time.

If the kidneys have not started to grow, then the “delenka” is placed in a bag and sprinkled with vermiculite or sphagnum, and then in a box with vegetables in the refrigerator for storage.

When the buds woke up, growth began - plant the rhizome in a pot (2-3 liters) with powerful drainage and a light nutrient substrate. Place in a dark and cool place (4-6 degrees Celsius - cellar, basement) to delay the growing season.

In the spring, dig a peony in the area along with a pot, and in the fall, cross it.

2nd OPTION. You can immediately transfer to a permanent place, but the minimum risk is still present.

3rd OPTION. When planning to plant in the fall, then after the awakening of the kidneys and the beginning of growth, transfer the pot to a bright place in the apartment. Care like a houseplant.

How to care at home?

Sprinkle wood ash on top of the potting mix and sand to prevent rot. Provide maximum light (ideally illuminate a couple of hours a day until May) and coolness with moderate watering (you can put ice or snow cubes on top of the pot, which will add coolness due to melting).

Inspect the flower weekly. By May - June, suction roots appear, and if you do not want to wait for August - September, then you can plant it in open ground.

  • The main thing is moderate watering after the soil surface dries out.
  • The maximum period for growing a peony in a pot in a house is one year, since the rhizome can no longer grow normally.

Planting peonies in summer

Many garden centers sell potted tree peonies in the summer. Experts believe that they can be planted from April to October. But if you want to play it safe or the seedling is not entirely healthy, then it is better to wait for August - September. Read about tree peonies at the bottom of the page in a special material.

Care for peonies after planting

The first spring of growth is a key stage in the life of the plant.

  1. From May to mid-June, it is necessary to feed him - this is the most favorable period. Best of all complex mineral fertilizer and nitrogen (ammonium nitrate). Pour the nutrient solution into a circular hole - this will accelerate the formation of the root system, contribute to excellent vegetation and the laying of renewal buds.
  2. It is in the first year of life that experts consider foliar feeding more effective. Spray the flower three times: 1. After the shoots begin to grow - 30-40 g of urea / 5 l of water. 2. After 2-3 weeks, 30-40 g of urea (urea) and a tablet with trace elements / 5 liters of water. 3. After 2-3 weeks, two tablets / 5 liters of water.
  3. If there is no rain, then it should be watered every 2-3 days for the first 2-3 weeks after planting. And in the future, water the bush during drought better less often, but plentifully: 10-15 liters per bush. Loosen the soil the next day to provide oxygen to the roots.
  4. In autumn, prepare the bush for winter. In September - October, sprinkle a little earth and cover with a 10-14 cm layer of peat (except for acidic soil) or spruce branches. The mulch is removed in the spring, and covered again the following fall.
  • There is an opinion that the first two years, seedlings do not need to be fed. However, experts strongly recommend fertilizing young plants, as they do not have enough nutrients, and they have not yet grown to the bottom of the planting pit.

How many years after planting do peonies bloom?

Many gardeners think that the plant should flower in the first year, especially when planted in the fall. However, experts think differently, which is confirmed in practice - usually the bush blooms after planting in two years, and often after three, depending on the variety and care.

Tree-like peonies with their own roots bloom in the 4-6th year, and with grafted from a grassy species in the 2-3rd.

Preparing for flowering

Moreover, early flowering should not be allowed. In the first spring of growth, be sure to cut off all the flowers after the buds appear so that the plant can better develop the root system. At the same time, do not forget about proper care and watering.

In the second year, leave one bud, and after it blooms, cut it as short as possible and consider it to match the variety. In case of incomplete compliance, the procedure must be repeated next year, and so on until the flower is identical to the varietal characteristics. Often, this happens in the 4-5th year.

Which is better to take a peony seedling?

It is best to plant a 1-2-year-old seedling. You can buy it or grow it yourself from a small “delenka” (2-3 buds and part of the rhizome with completely renewed light (young) roots and large buds). The optimal size of the seedling is 20-25 cm in height, but 10-15 cm is also allowed.

In the spring - summer, they often sell potted peony seedlings - these are the first years, the delenki were planted in the fall, and now they have hatched and started to grow.

An example of a peony seedling from a store

TIPS

  • It is better to buy "delenki" from adult bushes. They have an unattractive appearance, large irregularities and points. Beautiful rhizomes with even outlines, most often from the so-called "school" (bushes up to 4 years old) and flower growers are more willing to buy them, but such "delenki" grow and bloom worse.
  • Do not buy overdried "delenki" with dried and blackened buds. Sellers will assure that dormant buds will wake up, but remember that this is an extra risk.
  • The chances of saving a wilted delenka with growth stimulants are minimal.
  • Do not purchase yellowed tree peony seedlings at a low price - it is more difficult to get a luxuriously flowering bush from a weak and diseased specimen.
  • Before buying a seedling, scrupulously inspect the roots, choose the one with the strongest appearance.
  • Try to study the proposed varieties on the Internet (frost resistance, height and size of the bush, flowering time and their color). Especially check varieties with fantastic beautiful names - "Blue Sapphire" does not bloom, blue, and "Black Panther" - black. Read in a separate article about blue and blue peonies.

Interesting Facts

Few people admire the leaves, but they are beautiful and change color three times per season.

ADDITIONS TO THE ARTICLE:

1. HOW TO CARE FOR PIONIES IN THE OPEN GROUND?

2. CORRECT TRANSPLANTATION OF PIONS - ALL THE nuances!

3. REPRODUCTION OF HERBAL PIONS - HOW IS IT BETTER?

4. PLANTING AND CARE OF TREE PIONS - FEATURES!

5. TRANSPLANTATION AND REPRODUCTION OF TREE PIONS - QUICKLY AND EASILY!

6. TYPES AND KNOWN VARIETIES OF PIONS WITH PHOTO AND NAMES!

7. BLUE AND BLUE PEONY - HOW REALLY?

We wish you to plant peonies correctly so that they bloom profusely and brightly!

Spring planting of peonies is not much different from autumn. Although there are still some features ...

Many believe that peonies can only be planted in August-September, after they have been dug up and divided. But seedlings usually go on sale no earlier than February. What to do? Buy a delenka and wait for the arrival of autumn? Of course not! Peonies take root well after planting in the spring. The main thing is to do everything right.

Peony has two periods of growth of suction roots - autumn (August-September) and spring (April-May). It is at this time that it is recommended to plant plants in the ground.

In the spring, it is necessary to plant peonies until a steady warming begins, so that before the shoots begin to grow, the delenka can take root at least a little.

How to choose good peony rhizomes

First of all, pay attention to the packaging. A bona fide manufacturer will always indicate:

  • variety name;
  • a brief description of the plant;
  • the amount of planting material in pieces;
  • a mark on the passage of quality control;
  • landing instructions.

After examining the packaging, proceed to inspect the delenki (usually this is easy to do, because peonies are sold in plastic bags with labels attached). It should have 2-3 renewal buds and at least 2 adventitious roots more than 5 cm long. But no signs of damage or signs of disease - this is important!

It is better to refuse a purchase if:

  • the division is wet to the touch or, conversely, too dry;
  • the packaging smells of mold or rot;
  • there are growths or nodular thickenings on the rhizome (such planting material may be infected with cancer or affected by a root nematode).

If there are only 1-2 buds on a delenka, this does not mean at all that the plant will definitely die. Most often, such peonies simply grow more slowly and bloom a year later.

In this video, we will show how a good peony delenka should look like, ready for landing in a permanent place.

Planting a peony in open ground

In general, the technology of spring planting peonies is not much different from autumn. A planting hole can be dug in advance so that the soil has time to settle a little. But some flower growers do this on the day of planting. If you are one of them, then this guide is for you.

Step 1

We dig a planting hole with a size of at least 60 × 60 cm. Fold the top fertile soil layer separately.

Step 2

At the bottom of the pit we pour drainage (expanded clay, broken brick, river sand, etc.) with a layer of 10-15 cm.

Step 3

We fall asleep in the pit half of the excavated fertile soil, 1-2 buckets of compost or humus, 200 g of superphosphate and 300-400 g of ash. We mix. If the soil is clay, add a bucket of sand or peat, and if sandy - a bucket of clay.

Step 4

We pour the remaining fertile soil on top of the mound so that about 10-12 cm remain to the edges of the pit.

Step 5

We place the peony division in the center, having previously straightened the roots (they should be directed down or to the sides). If the soil in the area is heavy, we deepen the division by 5 cm, and if it is light, by 7 cm from the beginning of bud growth. To visually check the level of the soil, you can attach a shovel handle to the pit.

If you deeply deepen the peony, it will not bloom. This is one of the main reasons for the lack of flowering. If, on the contrary, the plant is planted too close to the soil surface, then in winter it may freeze slightly.

Step 6

Gently cover the rhizome of the peony with earth, lightly compacting it with your hands so as not to damage the kidneys. In no case should you trample the ground with your feet.

Step 7

We make a roller around the hole from the remaining soil and water it abundantly. If the soil has sagged, add more soil.

Step 8

We mulch the hole with peat, humus or a mixture of garden soil and peat (1: 1). This will protect the soil from drying out and create favorable conditions for the rooting of the seedling.

At first, peonies need to be watered every day so that they take root faster. The rest of the care is the same as during the autumn planting. And although it is believed that "spring" peonies may lag behind those planted in September a little, but with timely watering, fertilizing and weeding, you can grow magnificent and healthy bushes.

Give in the spring large fragrant flowers of bright and pastel colors. In one place, a bush can grow for many years, but there comes a time when the grower decides to propagate his favorite variety of peonies, it is very important to do the work correctly so that the separated parts of the plant can quickly adapt and start growing. Gardeners practice planting peonies in open ground in spring and autumn, but it is preferable to time these works for autumn. This article is all about how to transplant herbaceous and tree peonies in the fall.

Why is it better to plant peonies in the fall

Planting peonies in the fall in open ground has several compelling advantages that flower growers are guided by when planning work specifically for this period.

  1. When planted in September-October, the plant manages to take root in a new place, get stronger before the cold weather and go into the winter prepared and strong.
  2. Autumn time contributes to the rapid development of numerous adventitious roots, which helps the plant to better establish itself in the ground.
  3. Properly carried out planting work in the fall contributes to the flowering of young plants in the spring, while spring planting cannot guarantee flowering in the current season.
  4. A good rooting of peonies from autumn contributes to the formation in plants of increased resistance to summer heat and drought, which can affect them as early as next season.
  5. By August, the above-ground part of the plants is immersed in a state of dormancy, and the replacement buds are already well formed.
  6. The time of heat has already passed, thanks to the precipitation, constant moisture is maintained in the soil.

Planting dates for peonies in the fall

When deciding to plant peony bushes in open ground in the fall, it is necessary to clearly determine the timing of planting plants, guided by several important criteria:

  1. Weather conditions of the region.
  2. The onset of frost at a certain time.

Important! Planting work should be completed 25-35 days before the onset of frost.

In each region, frosts occur at different times, so it is not possible to name the exact time for planting peonies in the fall in open ground. We would like to note one more nuance - they begin to prepare the landing hole in advance at the end of summer, and the transplant is carried out in the fall.

Choosing a site for planting peonies

In order for peonies to grow and develop well after transplantation, to delight each year with lush flowering, it is worth choosing the right place for growing a crop.

What we pay attention to when choosing a suitable site for growing peonies:

Peonies should be planted in a site with good sunlight, in the shade the plant stretches, the color of the flowers turns pale, and the flowers themselves become smaller. It is allowed to grow peonies in flowerbeds with slight shading for several hours a day.

Soil composition

Herbaceous peonies prefer to grow in the garden on slightly alkaline or neutral soil (pH - from 6 to 6.5). Nutrient-rich loams are ideal for growing peonies.

Blowout protection

The culture is very sensitive to drafts - peonies must be planted in calm areas of the garden or protect plants from gusts of wind.

The height of the groundwater level on the site

A high level of soil water can lead to wetting of the root part of adult peonies and delenok, therefore, when choosing a place for planting plants, it is necessary to choose a high area with a low level of groundwater.

Bad predecessors

Predecessors are not often remembered, but this is one of the important aspects of the successful growth of peonies in the garden. It is not recommended to plant new varieties in place of old plants, at least 2 years must pass after the bushes have been transplanted from this site. Proper planting of peonies in autumn should take into account that the culture grows poorly and develops after large perennials, uprooted trees and shrubs, which have depleted the soil for a long time.

Optimal distance from tall trees and garden buildings

Grassy peonies are not recommended to be planted close to the walls of tall buildings, because in summer the heated surfaces intensively give off heat, which negatively affects the development of the peony bush. The minimum distance from the walls of houses is 2 m.

Tall trees often shade peony plantings, so you should pay attention to this factor when planting and dividing bushes.

Seating preparation

When a suitable site for transplanting peonies is determined, they begin to prepare seats for plants, and it is immediately worth planning the frequency of the pits - one per 2 m2. With such a planting, maturing peony bushes will have enough nutrients for many years.

Important! If the peony is planted in the fall in accordance with all the rules, flower buds will appear in the spring 2 weeks ahead of schedule.

It is recommended to prepare landing pits for peonies when planting in autumn 1.5 -2 months before the start of work. During this time, the soil should be saturated with useful substances, compacted and settled.

For planting hybrid plants for a long time without planning for quick transplants, you should prepare pits with dimensions:

  1. Depth - from 60 to 70 cm.
  2. Width - from 80 to 100 cm.

For ordinary peonies, when planting for 2-3 years, a hole measuring 45x45x40 cm is enough. This is how bushes are planted for which a permanent place has not yet been selected.

A significant distance should be left between plants (at least 90 cm), up to 2 m2 of garden space should be allocated for each bush. With such a planting, the plant will be able to freely form a powerful root system, between individual bushes there will be free space necessary for air circulation.

Important! Free planting of peony bushes prevents the development of fungal and other infectious diseases.

The depth of planting peonies in autumn should not exceed the soil level by 2o-30 mm. Plants that are too deeply buried develop poorly, which negatively affects growth and annual flowering. The high location of the bush in the planting hole can cause freezing of the root system and death of the kidneys.

Important! If a high level of soil water is observed over the entire area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe site, the plants are planted on ridges so that the distance from the surface of the poured layer to groundwater is at least 0.7 m. In this case, the depth of the pit should not exceed 40-45 cm, and its sides may be up to 80 cm.

Many gardeners debate whether a layer of drainage is needed when planting peonies outdoors. This is a purely individual feature, which depends on the soil on the site. If the bottom of the pit is lined with a layer of plastic clay, there will be no sense in drainage, because the clay castle will prevent water from seeping down. With sandy soil, water without drainage will quickly go deep into the soil, and the roots will lack moisture.

Local drainage is not able to qualitatively protect the roots of peonies from excessive moisture; to solve the problem, you will have to dig drainage trenches or find another way to lower the groundwater level in the area.

To fill the pit, nutrient soil is prepared, based on good garden soil, to which is added:

  1. Well-rotted, fully decomposed manure or compost aged 2-3 years - up to 25% of the volume of the planting pit.
  2. Double superphosphate - up to 2 cups per well.
  3. Wood ash - at least 1 to 2 cups.
  4. Bone or dolomite flour - 1 to 2 cups.

The pit is filled with this mixture to 2/3 of the height, the layer is compacted and a thin layer of quartz sand is made on top of it.

To fall asleep the roots, a light earth mixture is prepared with the addition of a small amount of ash and dolomite flour.

In September, peonies are planted, arranging the rhizomes so that the renewal buds are not deeper than 3-5 cm, and do not protrude more than 2-3 cm above the soil surface. Delenki or young bushes are carefully placed in a pit, sprinkled with soil and watered.

Important! If, after watering, the soil in the pits settles significantly, the soil is topped up, and it is also useful to mulch the surface with peat or leaves to preserve moisture.

Planting tree peonies in autumn

Tree-like peonies - the most beautiful perennial shrubs with charming showy flowers, can grow in one place for up to 80 years or more, so the place for planting them should be chosen very carefully. The requirements for choosing a site are almost identical to the rules for planting grassy peonies, but for tree peonies, places with shading from the sun for several hours a day are more suitable. Planting time is usually in September.

Other requirements:

  1. The diameter of the landing pit is at least 50 cm. The pit is prepared and the lower part is covered with soil 2-3 weeks before planting.
  2. The distance between plants is from 100 cm.
  3. Soil - made up of garden soil, peat, compost, humus and sand. All ingredients should be taken for 1 hour. Bone meal and superphosphate can be added to the prepared mixture. The ideal level of acidity is 7.5-8 pH.
  4. Deepening of the root neck - no more than 5 cm.
  5. Watering - immediately after planting, at least 10 liters of water should be used per plant.

The traditional season for planting peonies is autumn. However, flower seedlings appear on the markets as early as February, so many gardeners prefer to plant them in the spring. With the right choice of location and compliance with the planting conditions, peonies, both tree-like and herbaceous, can take root well in April-May. The timely holding of this event and the subsequent care of the plants guarantee the lush flowering of the peony.

Planting peonies in the spring comes with some risks. There is a possibility that the flower will not take root or the plants will get sick, their root system will be greatly weakened. Therefore, it is important to choose the right time for landing.

It is recommended to carry out this event in early spring. The optimal time will be the end of April, when the snow has just melted and the soil has thawed. We cannot wait for sustainable warming, because then shoots will begin to grow actively. This will not allow the roots to take root enough in the ground.

If necessary, this can be done later. Then the landing site is protected with a film so that the soil does not warm up much.

Rhizome selection

Before planting peonies in the ground, it is necessary to carefully examine the seedlings. Following is noteworthy:

  • The number of renewal kidneys. It is best if there are 2-3 of them. Gardeners note that with proper care, those flowers whose roots have 1-2 buds also survive. In this case, their growth will be slowed down.
  • The number of adventitious roots. You need at least 2, the length of which is not less than 5 cm.
  • The bulbs should be free of damage or signs of disease, thickening or growths, and musty smell.

It is worth noting that some gardeners prefer to grow peonies from seeds. This method takes a lot of time - the shoots will germinate in a year and a half, and will bloom only for 3-5 years. With this method, the seeds are planted in wooden flat boxes, followed by transplanting into the ground, which is carried out in May or late August.

Detailed landing instructions

Flowers require careful site preparation. Water should not stagnate there, otherwise the roots will rot. The soil must be loamy. Peonies prefer a neutral environment, so it is necessary to check the acidity of the soil. In the case of a change in the indicator below 6 pH, liming is carried out.

The place is chosen sunny, because peonies will not grow in the shade. Shade on the site even for 3 hours a day will lead to poor flowering or the fact that the flower will wither.

The landing pit can be prepared in advance - 2-3 weeks before planting. Then the earth will settle a little. However, digging a hole and applying fertilizer to it on planting day is not prohibited.

Planting peonies in spring and autumn is not much different. Step by step planting peonies:

  1. 1. Dig a planting hole. Its size must be at least 60 cm in diameter, depth - 70 cm.
  2. 2. Create a drainage system at the bottom of the pit. You can use gravel, crushed brick, river sand, expanded clay. Layer 10–15 cm.
  3. 3. Then lay out humus or compost (1 bucket), potash fertilizers and superphosphates. Top everything with soil. After that, the pit should be filled so that there is still 10–15 cm left to the brim.
  4. 4. Place seedlings with straightened roots in the center. It is necessary to deepen them into the ground so that the buds go into the ground by 5 cm on heavy soils, by 7 cm on light soils. Plant peonies at a distance of about 1 m from each other.

If you plant a peony too deep, it will not bloom, its development will be too slow. If you plant too close to the surface, then in winter the roots will freeze.

5. Cover the rhizome with earth, crushing the earth with your hands. Trampling it with your feet is strictly prohibited.

6. Make a furrow from the ground around the planted peony and water the flower with water. If the soil sags, you can add fertile soil on top.

7. The landing site can be mulched with peat or humus.

In the event that, due to weather conditions, planting pions in open ground is not possible, they are planted in pots. You can store them at temperatures from 0 to +20 ° C. After the shoots appear, the plants are exposed to the sun and looked after like indoor plants. After warming, the flowers are planted in a flower bed.