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Peony not thriving

Rose121Rose121 Posts: 132
in Plants
I planned a few peonies (herbaceous) this spring, probably slightly later than ideal. They've not really put on much growth, and are still small (15-20cm). Clay soil, decent sun, and I've tried to keep them watered through the hot summer. No flowers. Is this expected for a first year with non ideal weather, or is it likely I've done something wrong, eg planted too deep? I was expecting at least the foliage to come through better this year. 

Posts

  • PosyPosy Posts: 3,601
    Sounds about right. Some take two or three years before they flower after replanting.
  • Rose121Rose121 Posts: 132
    Cheers. Good to know they're on track! 
  • BorderlineBorderline Posts: 4,700
    Check that you have not planted too deep, or mulched over the base area too heavily. Although they are young plants, it's still important to prepare the hole well, making sure the surrounding soil is mixed well with added compost or grit to make the soil as free draining as possible. 
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    15 to 20 cm is tiny. They'll take quite a long time to reach flowering size. Most of them make quite big plants - around 3 to 4 feet at maturity, with the same sort of width. 
    Borderline is right too - the depth of planting is important for them to flower. They need rich, free draining soil, and a sunny site to do well.  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • Rose121Rose121 Posts: 132
    Thanks both. I'll check out the depth tomorrow. 
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