Preparing your pots and soil

Before you start planting your peony bulbs, you want to make sure you have the right type of pot and soil. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and wide, with good drainage holes at the bottom. You will need soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. You can use a pre-made mix or make your own by combining equal parts peat moss, perlite, and compost.

Choosing your peony bulbs

When selecting your peony bulbs, look for firm bulbs free of any mold or soft spots. Ideally, you want to plant peony bulbs in the fall, but you can also plant them in the spring. If you are planting in the spring, make sure to select bulbs that are already sprouting new shoots.

Planting your peony bulbs

Fill the bottom of your pot with a layer of your prepared soil mix, about 2 inches deep. Place your peony bulbs on top of the soil, with the sprouts facing up. Cover the bulbs with soil, leaving about 2 inches of space between the top of the soil and the rim of the pot. Water the soil well, but avoid getting water on the bulbs themselves.

Caring for your peony bulbs

As your peony bulbs grow, make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. You can help retain moisture by adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil. Peony bulbs prefer cooler temperatures, so keep your pot in a location with bright but indirect sunlight.

Once your peony plants start to grow, you may want to use stakes or cages to support the heavy blooms. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.

Next steps

With proper care, your peony bulbs will produce gorgeous blooms that will brighten up your home or garden. Once your plants finish blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally. You can then cut back the stems to the ground.

If you planted your peony bulbs in a pot, you may want to divide and re-plant them every few years to prevent overcrowding. When dividing, make sure each new division has at least one strong, healthy shoot and a portion of the roots.

By following these steps, you can enjoy the beauty of peony blooms in your home or garden.