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Tree Peony Growing Then Wilts, Then Repeats

KweeglyKweegly Posts: 104
in Problem solving
Hi Everyone,

I bought a Tree Peony last year and planted into a large pot, in Height the Peony is roughly 15 inches and consists of 4 branches coming out of the soil. Since purchasing I have noticed the same pattern where each branch will start to grow foliage, maybe two or three leaf's then they will wilt and die for no apparent reason. This cycle has repeated for a year now and I'm not sure what the cause could be.

- The pot is very large for the Peony so I  don't think its a small pot issue
- I keep the soil moist but not wet
- I haven't fed the pot since July last year in case I was over feeding
- There is nothing else in the pot in case it was competition causing the problem
- In the summer the pot is in a very sunny spot

Any ideas would be gratefully received.

Posts

  • GardenerSuzeGardenerSuze Posts: 5,692
    edited February 2023
    If it is Peony Wilt there is little you can do, remove any dying leaves as soon as you see them is the best advice. If you are a member of the RHS they may be able to confirm this for you.
    I have worked as a Gardener for 24 years. My latest garden is a new build garden on heavy clay.
  • KweeglyKweegly Posts: 104
    Thanks GardenerSuze, I'll read into Peony Wilt. Just checking Peony's will tolerate full sun?
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    edited February 2023
    Several forum members grow tree peonies and may be able to advise.
    I don't think they do well long term in pots though. It may have got dehydrated in the pot during last summer. Many people found all sorts of plants struggling in very hot weather in lots of areas of the UK.
    All peonies like as much sun as possible, although tree peonies can cope with some shade. They need a fair bit of room too. 

    This is a well know grower of them so it might be useful  :)
    https://www.paramountplants.co.uk/blog/index.php/tree-peonies-uk/#:~:text=Tree Peonies will grow in,some up to 2 metres.
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • GardenerSuzeGardenerSuze Posts: 5,692
    edited February 2023
    I agree although they can be grown in pots they would be much better in the ground., The roots could have got really warm in last summers heat especially in a sunny spot and dried. Plants that are stresses can then develop problems.
    Might it be possible to plant it out ?
    I have worked as a Gardener for 24 years. My latest garden is a new build garden on heavy clay.
  • KweeglyKweegly Posts: 104
    Thanks, I'll check out that link.

    The plant is young so I don't think it has run out of space yet and the pot is very large in comparison but I will bear that in mind if it grows!
  • EustaceEustace Posts: 2,290
    I have had potted tree peonies struggling, so I planted them in the ground and they are now doing much better, already showing buds too. I would recommend planting yours in the ground.
    Oxford. The City of Dreaming Spires.
    And then my heart with pleasure fills,
    And dances with the daffodils (roses). Taking a bit of liberty with Wordsworth :)

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