I’m a gardener and this is the one plant you should never put in a pot

Peonies in vase — (Image credit: Future / Camilla Sharman)

There’s one perennial plant that I love for its beautiful bloom — it’s simply majestic. But while it might look magnificent planted in a pot on your porch or positioned on your patio, it will look and grow even better if planted in the ground.

This beauty is the peony, and the first time I ever saw one growing was in my grandma’s garden. I remember admiring the dark pink of the large buds before they opened up into blousy flowers. It’s one memory that has stayed with me throughout my life and could have been the trigger to my appreciation of all things plants and gardening.

Peonies are a long-lived shrub that thrives when planted in the ground, but they are not so happy when planted in a pot. Apart from pots causing unhappy roots, there are several other reasons peonies won’t flourish in containers. Here I explain why it's best to plant peonies in the ground, along with some extra tips on how to care for them.

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The root of the problem

Peony root — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Peonies don’t like to be contained and restricted in a tight space. This is because the thick, tuberous structures expand both horizontally and downwards, taking up a substantial area. Although you can grow a peony in pot — if it is super-sized — it will thank you for planting it in the ground.

However, there are some plants when grown in your yard, like eucalyptus, which are invasive, and are best contained within a pot.

Avoid water-logged soil

Peonies appreciate fertile, well-draining soil, but if planted in a container, they are at risk of being overwatered and the roots will become soggy and rot. Conversely, a soil that drains too quickly will mean the plant doesn’t get enough water and nutrients.

For the best result, avoid clay or soils with a high sand content; a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 will keep them happy.

Protection from winds and frost

Pink and red peonies — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Peonies need protection from strong winds, which might not be the case if you grow them in a pot. Being planted in the ground will also encourage the roots to establish and keep them stable.

Peonies also need protection from frost and cold winds in winter. By planting in the ground, your peony will gain an extra level of insulation from the soil that a container can’t provide.

When to expect your first blooms

Your peony is more likely to bloom if grown in the ground than in a pot. Within a pot, it can become root-bound, which can inhibit flower production.

However, don't be disappointed if your peony doesn't flower during its first year, even if it is grown in the ground. It may be that you bought it as a young plant or a bare root. If it was already two years old when planted, you should expect it to bloom during its first season.

Peonies like the sun

peony flowers in sunlight — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

If you want to enjoy the fragrant and beautiful blooms that from your peony, you’ll need to plant it in full sun. But a little bit of sun won’t be enough, as it will need at least six hours a day.

The only exception, according to Blooming Backyard, is if you live in USDA zones 8 and 9, and some shade, from the scorching sun, will be welcome.

When is the best time to plant peonies

Woman preparing to plant a peony — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

You can plant peonies in the fall or spring. If you’re planting them in the fall, Blooming Backyard says you’ll find they are only available to buy as bare roots, which will overwinter in the ground and emerge the following spring. However, in spring, it says they’re usually only available as potted plants.

If you're planning on adding a peony to your yard this year, April is a good month to get planting.

The verdict on the best way to plant peonies

Cut peonies in a glass vase — (Image credit: Shutterstock)

If you prefer to enjoy your plants rather than spend endless time caring for them, a peony planted in the soil will let you sit back and enjoy it, especially if you position it in full sun, sheltered from the wind.

And once your peony starts to bloom, you should have an abundance of flowers, giving you plenty to cut and enjoy inside and out.

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