Help with a peony tree.?

[birdlover]

I gave someone a gift of a peony tree (not a bush,a tree)Against my advice,she put it in a large planter,and now it is dying.I know that it needs to be put into the ground to live.I am going to retrieve it and put it in the ground.What can I do to be sure that it makes a smooth transition,and thrives as it should?Please don't answer unless you are sure.Thanks!

[devilishblueyes]

Before you plant it, soak the pot in water for several minutes (up to 30 minutes). That will make sure it has plenty of water to grow off of. By soaking, I mean totally submerse the pot.

[brenda p]

Put it facing east, because hot sun will kill, fertilize with Miracle Grow,if you are living in a hot climate with little rain, take a milk jug rinse throughly, poke a hole with a needle just at the base of the jug, fill with water leave cap on but not to tight the water will leek out and keep watering plant , just make sure you keep eye on jug and refill. I know it will survive I do it all the time.

[Kevin C]

None of us can be 100% sure, without seeing the plant and location it is to be planted in. Even then... It would also help to know which USDA hardiness zone you're in.

That being said.
If it isn't doing well in a container, it's probably related to the amount of water it has recieved. Too much or too little will be problematic. I planted a new tree peony (Paeonia suffructosa) this year, and it's looking pekid. Be sure to plant a little on the shallow side, just covering the surface roots with soil. Monitor the watering, keep it moist but not wet. It would be advantageous to use a root stimulator containing mycorrhizal fungi, at least something containing vitamin B-1 or another mild root stimulating fertilizer. If you live somewhere with harsh winters, I'd also use a rose cone or some other winter protection.

In the spring begin using whatever flowering shrub fertilizer you prefer. Always follow the directions on the label.

I hope that this helps
Good luck