Why Isn’t Your Peony Blooming?

Peonies can easily produce a late spring show for decades with minimal care. But sometimes they stall out. Here are some reasons why peonies may fail to bloom:

The plant is too young. Usually, mature peonies will bloom.

The peony was planted too deeply. The crown, from which the buds sprout, should be only about 1 inch below the soil surface.

The site is too dry. Roots need water as buds develop.

The plants are undernourished. Feed each year but avoid highnitrogen fertilizers.

The peony is not getting enough sun or is having to compete with tree roots. This fall, move the peony to a sunnier, more open site. It may take it a year or two to recover.