Hi peony lovers!

I believe someone had said that the best food for promoting peony flowering is actually...bulb food! I've been using that with decent results, but this year, I've run out. So I thought I'd check in with you all to see what your preferences are.

I'm in zone 5b. This last spring, I only used regular fertilizer (10-10-10) and some blood meal to keep the critters away. I've had beautiful, luscious greenery, but few flowers.

Can't wait to hear your recommendations!

Hi joannakat,

a 10-10-10 might be a little too strong for peonies. The recommendation is typically to fertilize with a tulip/daffodil bulb fertilizer in the Fall. It is best to fertilize first so you can see where the eyes/roots are, then cut down the stems. You would want to apply the granular fertilizer around the stems.
I use Espoma Organic Bulbtone which is a 3-5-3 NPK nutrient.
Welcome and hope this is helpful.

magnolialover said: Hi joannakat,

a 10-10-10 might be a little too strong for peonies. The recommendation is typically to fertilize with a tulip/daffodil bulb fertilizer in the Fall. It is best to fertilize first so you can see where the eyes/roots are, then cut down the stems. You would want to apply the granular fertilizer around the stems.
I use Espoma Organic Bulbtone which is a 3-5-3 NPK nutrient.
Welcome and hope this is helpful.

Thank you so much Tracey. Any recommendations about where to purchase?

You can get them at local hardware stores or garden centers, online at places like Amazon. Also, Adelman Peonies has one they sell on their website, a granular type for peonies and they specialize in peonies. I have used that also with success.

magnolialover said: You can get them at local hardware stores or garden centers, online at places like Amazon. Also, Adelman Peonies has one they sell on their website, a granular type for peonies and they specialize in peonies. I have used that also with success.

Thank you so much Tracey!

Hi Joey,
I use Espoma bulb food, too. I've found it at independent garden centers and online at Amazon.
I did see some small bags of it at Tractor Supply a couple of weeks ago.

Mieko2 said: Hi Joey,
I use Espoma bulb food, too. I've found it at independent garden centers and online at Amazon.
I did see some small bags of it at Tractor Supply a couple of weeks ago.

Thank you LG!