Dream Gardens & Landscapes

How to Plant Perennials

Perennials are the old faithfuls of the garden, returning year after year. Set them up for success-after-success by planting them well.

Excerpted from Garden Design
Filed under: Perennials, How To

Unlike annuals and tender patio plants, herbaceous perennials come up year after year. Many modern varieties need little maintenance other than deadheading and cutting back in spring. Give them a good start by improving the soil at planting time and minimize competition for water and nutrients by controlling weeds.

It should take you less than an hour to plant a perennial.

Materials Needed:

spade and fork
organic matter
general fertilizer

bucket
mulching material

Prep the Area

Prepare the planting area, removing perennial weeds and large stones. On dry ground or heavy clay, work in organic matter. On sandy soil, also apply a general fertilizer.

Dig a Hole and Add the Plant

Dig a hole a bit deeper and wider than the pot. After soaking the plant in water, remove the pot. Add soil to the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill and firm soil lightly with your hands.

Apply Mulch and Water

Water thoroughly. Apply a thick mulch to conserve moisture, suppress weeds and protect roots from penetrating frosts. Take precautions against slugs and snails, and watch for aphids on shoot tips.