Hey gardeners!
Perennial plants, as compared to annual plants that must be planted each year, return on their own year after year after their initial planting. There are many kinds of perennials, and knowing your USDA Zone will help you determine which ones to choose. Depending on your goals, this search might lead you to herbs, vegetables or flowers.
Check out this post from Heirloom Soul which focuses on how to grow and care for perennial herbs in our zone, Zone 6, such as mint, lavender and chives. They recommend herbs as a great beginner way into perennials. They also get into explaining tips for watering, trimming and harvesting your herbs.
For a more general, comprehensive look at what to consider when planning for perennials, you can visit this article from Monrovia. While they are focused on flowers, their overview highlights factors that apply to general perennial care:
- Types: Choose from a variety of options, like Heuchera, Hosta, Veronica, Iris, and Lady’s Mantle.
- Planting: Spring and fall are ideal. Give plants room to grow based on mature size.
- Soil: Aim for pH 6-7. Amend with organic matter for rich, well-draining soil.
- Sunlight: Varies by plant. Some need full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Check plant tags.
- Watering: Water regularly after planting. Once established, refer to the watering needs on the plant tag.
- Feeding: Apply organic fertilizer in spring and late summer. Follow package instructions.
- Mulching: Apply in early spring and fall to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pruning: Trim dead stems and foliage in spring. Deadhead spent flowers during the growing season.
- Winter Care: Some perennials are evergreen, others die back. Protect roots with mulch in cold climates.
- Dividing: Many perennials benefit from division every few years to maintain vigor.
- Companion Planting: Combine perennials with different bloom times for continuous color.
- Long-term Care: Most perennials thrive for years with proper care, some lasting up to 20 years.
Again, the exact care required will depend on what you want to grow. Perennials are generally valued for their relatively low maintenance role in your garden.
For in person learning opportunities, you can visit our events page for the upcoming Green Thumb Summer series!
