Paeonia 'First Arrival'

Paeonia 'First Arrival' – A Prelude to Spring’s Splendor

Welcome the early signs of spring with Paeonia 'First Arrival', an Itoh hybrid peony renowned for its early blooming period and captivating pastel lavender-pink blooms. This variety combines the best attributes of tree and herbaceous peonies, offering gardeners a robust, long-lived plant that ushers in the gardening season with its vibrant display.

Product Characteristics:

• Height: Grows to a substantial 80 cm, making a bold statement in any garden landscape.
• Spread: Spreads to about 90 cm, creating a full and lush appearance with its verdant foliage.
• Flower Colour: Features exquisite semi-double blooms of soft lavender-pink, enhanced by subtle overtones and deeper pink flares at the base, encircling a center of golden stamens.
• Flowering Period: One of the earliest peonies to bloom, 'First Arrival' starts its display in late spring, providing a burst of color when most gardens are just beginning to wake.
• Foliage: Boasts large, deeply lobed green leaves that persist through summer and into fall, providing excellent garden texture and interest even after blooming has ceased.
• Sunlight Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade, thriving under the gentle rays of the morning sun with some protection from harsh afternoon light.
• Soil Requirements: Enjoys well-drained, fertile soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, perfect for promoting healthy growth and spectacular blooms.

Uses and Benefits: Paeonia 'First Arrival' is ideal for perennial borders, mixed beds, and as a stunning focal point in cut flower arrangements. Its early bloom time not only adds color to the garden sooner than most peonies but also extends the peony season, making it a valuable asset for gardeners looking to achieve a longer display of peony blossoms. Additionally, its attractive flowers are excellent for attracting pollinators, which enhances the garden's biodiversity.

Companion Plants: Pair 'First Arrival' with plants that complement its growth cycle and color palette:

• Blue and purple perennials, such as Salvia, Nepeta, or Iris: These plants offer a cool-toned contrast that highlights the soft lavender-pink of the peony.
• Silver foliage plants like Artemisia or Lamb's Ears: The silvery leaves provide a striking backdrop, accentuating the vibrant blooms of the peony.
• White flowering plants, such as Shasta daisies or Phlox: These create a serene and classic look that allows the pink hues of 'First Arrival' to stand out vividly.

Care Instructions: To ensure optimal performance, plant 'First Arrival' in a sunny to partly shaded area with well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain evenly moist soil. Apply a layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture and protect the roots from extreme temperatures. Fertilize annually in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage lush foliage and abundant flowering. Staking the large blooms may be necessary to keep them upright and showy throughout the season.

History: 'First Arrival' is part of the Itoh group, a hybrid class developed from crossing traditional herbaceous peonies with tree peonies. These hybrids are celebrated for their durability, exceptional bloom size, and unique color range. 'First Arrival' has gained popularity for its early bloom time and impressive floral display, making it a standout variety in the peony world.

Final Thoughts: Paeonia 'First Arrival' brings an early touch of elegance and charm to any garden with its delightful pastel blooms and sturdy foliage. As one of the first peonies to herald the arrival of spring, it sets the stage for a season filled with growth and beauty, ensuring your garden remains vibrant and colorful from spring through fall. Embrace 'First Arrival' as a harbinger of the lushness to come, and enjoy its serene beauty year after year.