Product Description
Alertie is a captivating early-blooming peony that boasts a delightful, sweet scent and a subtle, yet romantic, coloring. Its abundant, double 6-inch flowers start off as a soft pink and gradually transition to white with a hint of blush—a versatile choice for crafting beautiful bouquets for both designers and backyard growers. With a prolific blooming habit and impressive longevity, this compact plant is a charming addition to borders and mixed garden beds.
Not only is Alerite gorgeous, but it is also practical, as it is resistant to deer and rabbits. This peony is an EARLY season bloomer, making it attractive for growers in warmer climates.
THIS LISTING IS FOR ONE LARGE, PREMIUM, 3/5 EYE BARE ROOT PEONY.
***Shipping begins mid October***
PLANTING GUIDE: FALL PLANTING IS BEST AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. These plants are low-maintenance and thrive in full sun to part shade conditions. While they prefer sunny locations, providing some relief from the hot afternoon sun can help prolong the beauty of their blooms. To ensure the best results when planting peonies, it is recommended to enrich the soil with compost. Planting peonies at the correct depth is crucial for optimal flowering, with the peony's eyes ideally positioned 1 1/2 to 2 inches below the soil level. Peonies are known for their longevity and resilience, often thriving without the need for division. With their striking beauty, amazing fragrance, and easy-care requirements, peonies are a true gem for any garden enthusiast.
HARVESTING/VASE LIFE: For optimal vase life, it is best to harvest peonies when they are in the bud or "soft marshmallow" stage. To determine if they are ready to be picked, gently squeeze each flower bud and feel for sponginess. If the buds are still hard, allow them to ripen longer. However, if they feel soft, like a marshmallow, then it is time to harvest them. When cutting the stems, ensure that at least 2 sets of leaves are left on the stem to allow the plant to continue growing and storing food throughout the summer.
If you wish to store the cut stems for later use, they can be kept in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 weeks. When storing, remove most of the leaves, bunch the stems together, and place them in a plastic bag with a few paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. Lay the stems flat on a shelf in the produce area of the fridge and check them every few days for any signs of mold. Discard any stems that show signs of rot.
When you are ready to use the stored stems, recut the ends and place them in warm water with flower preservative. The buds will open within 24 hours, and the blooms will last for about a week in the vase. Don't be alarmed if the flowers initially look limp after being stored - they will revive once they are placed in water.
