Perennials are not only known for their wondrous displays of color and variety, they are also known for only having to be planted once. Additionally, perennial flower gardening is very rewarding seeing your plants grow bigger and stronger year after year.
If good care is bestowed upon perennials, the roots will endure the winter and once spring is in the air, begin to grow all over again! Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect ones for your garden:
Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect ones for your garden.
Which Perennial Is Right for Your Yard?
This is the tricky part; perennial flower gardeners are often baffled as to what plants to pick. Keep in mind there are thousands of perennial flowers on the market, but not all of them may match with your
Keep in mind there are thousands of perennial flowers on the market, but not all of them may match with your dream garden idea. Here are some questions to keep in mind when perusing your local nursery:
Here are some questions to keep in mind when perusing your local nursery:
- How long do they bloom for?
- Are they “short-lived” perennials?
- How much sun do they require?
- Do they require shade?
- What soil is preferable?
- Do they overtake other plants?
Perennials vary like the seasons, so it is ideal to not just spring for the first pretty plant you like. Some may hate your local climate and wilt; others will bloom for about two weeks and then immediately go dormant, leaving a sore sight in the midst of your garden. And others may require an insane amount of
Some may hate your local climate and wilt; others will bloom for about two weeks and then immediately go dormant, leaving a sore sight in the midst of your garden. And others may require an insane amount of work and are picky about which plants they're next to.
Research thoroughly so that you're not left scrambling and panicking.
USDA Hardiness Zones for Perennial Flower Gardening
Knowledge of the USDA hardiness zones is a must for any burgeoning gardener. This is a map of the United States that separates the topography of the country into colored and numbers regions.
Depending on where you reside in the country, certain plants may burgeon and blossom, but some may wilt and die.
Use it as a reference point when researching just what perennials you want in your garden.
Planting Time!
Now that you have your perennials in hand, it's time to plant them! Many gardeners choose to plant their perennials in a large rectangular plot or other styles of flower beds.
If they are shade loving plants, they get situated next to a wall (if you have one) and if they love the sun, they get the sunniest spot.
Make sure to plant invasive perennials in their own separate plot or inside a burred pot, to prevent them from ruling the garden.
Once planted, they need ample water. Most gardeners only fertilize perennials at the beginning of the blooming season, as they are not needy plants, like, say, rose bushes.
Water as needed, and watch for signs of under or over watering. Both usually present themselves as yellowed leaves and droopiness, so be sure to inspect your garden regularly.
With these tips on perennial flower gardening, you'll be an expert perennial gardener in no time.
You'll be able to further complement your garden with these beauties, without the added stress and complication of woody plants and shrubs.