How to Fertilize & Trim Peonies in the Spring

Things You'll Need

Instructions

1

Break up the top 1 to 2 inches of soil around the base of the peony shoots as they emerge in spring, using a handheld garden fork. Emerging shoots are usually upright and red. Work carefully around the shoots so you don't damage them or the roots. Loosening the soil helps the fertilizer and water soak down to the root zone.
2

Spread ¼ cup of 5-10-5 slow release fertilizer around each peony plant after the stems grow to a 12-inch height, but before the plants flower. Apply the fertilizer on the soil surface, about 6 inches away from the shoots. Fertilizer that comes in contact with the shoots can burn and damage peony plants.
3

Water the soil immediately after applying the fertilizer, soaking the soil to a 6-inch depth. The water dissolves and dilutes the fertilizer, soaking it into the soil so the roots can access the nutrients.
4

Mix one part bleach with nine parts water in a bucket. Soak the pruning shears in the solution for 10 minutes to disinfect them before you prune. Rinse the shears in the solution after each cut to prevent the spread of pests and disease.
5

Cut off the peony flowers with the shears after the blossoms begin to wilt. Make each cut above the topmost set of leaves on the stem. Leave the foliage in place until it dies back naturally in late summer.