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Planting PerennialsPlanning Ahead is Key to a Beautiful Perennial GardenWhich plants qualify as perennials?A perennial plant or perennial is a plant that lives for more than two years. Perennials grow and bloom over the spring and summer and then die back every autumn and winter, then return in the spring from their root-stock rather than seeding themselves as an annual plant does.

While perennials do not require replanting each year, they still require care. For best results, initial planning, proper soil preparation and occasional maintenance are necessary. With proper attention to these details, a perennial garden can provide color and interest in the landscape throughout the growing season.

Site selectionMost flowering perennials prefer six to eight hours of sun per day. Areas of shade will reduce the numbers of species that can be grown.

PlanningPlanning the perennial garden is important to insure continued bloom and desired combinations of color, texture and height. The blooming period of a particular species can usually be classified as spring, early summer, midsummer, or late summer/fall.

Soil preparationThis is probably the most important factor in determining the success of a perennial planting. Soil with good water drainage characteristics is a necessity. Incorporating organic matter such as compost or peat moss aids in improving soil drainage. Spading or rototilling the soil to a minimum depth of 8-10 inches also is important. All this should be done before planting.

PlantingPerennials generally are planted in the spring (April-May).

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Planting PerennialsPlanning Ahead is Key to a Beautiful Perennial Garden

WateringOne inch to one and three quarters inch of water per week is a general rule. Once established, many species require watering only during prolonged dry periods.

FertilizationFertility of the soil can be improved before planting with the incorporation of a complete fertilizer.

MaintenanceMost perennials require only routine maintenance. A mulch applied to the soil will help suppress weeds while also conserving moisture.

Dividing and transplantingMost perennials can be divided and in fact need periodic division to maintain vigor and maximum flower production. This may need to be done annually.

Flower/Plant Bloom Time Height Hardiness Light

Blue Speedwell Early summer to late autumn 18” to 24” To 40̊ F below zero Full sun to very light shade

Purple Coneflower Midsummer to early autumn 2-1/2” to 3’ To 40̊ F below zero Sun

Black-Eyed Susan Midsummer to late fall 2’ to 2-1/2’ To 40̊ F below zero Sun

Purple-Leaved Beard-Tongue Early to late summer 2-1/2’ feet To 40̊ F below zero Sun

Pink Astilbe Midsummer to early fall 18” to 20” To 30̊ F below zero Partial sun to full shade

Blue Pincushion Flower Midsummer to early fall. 12” to 14” To 30̊ F below zero Full sun to very light shade.

Blue Perennial Sage Midsummer to fall 22” to 28” To 25̊ F below zero Full sun

Purple Coralbells All summer long 12” to 14” To 30̊ F below zero Partial sun to partial shade

Threadleaf Tickseed Early summer to fall 16” to 18” To 35̊ F below zero Full sun to very light shade.

Russian Sage Midsummer to fall 3-1/2’ to 4’ To 30̊ F below zero Full sun