For a spectacular, low-maintenance perennial garden, consider some of these tips. Perennials are not heavy feeders, and they don’t need high-priced fertilizer. Perennials like well-drained soil that drains from one to four hours. Soils that drain too fast cause root rot, while slow-draining soil keeps plants from growing properly. To improve drainage, mix a 50:50 mixture of organic material and coarse sand into the soil. Avoid using regular sand, as it can turn into concrete under certain conditions.
The shape and color of the leaves are crucial to the overall look of your perennial garden. Silvery foliage, strap-shaped foliage, and fine textures are excellent choices. Variegated leaves are also welcome accents. Perennial gardens should contain plants with contrasting shapes and sizes. Perennials are known for their versatility. By varying leaf colors and textures, you can create a garden that is both striking and functional. They make great accents to any outdoor space.
Perennial gardens can be incorporated into a formal garden style or an informal cottage style. Perennial borders are a classic English treatment of large perennial beds. Planting plants six to ten feet deep will ensure sufficient space for tall and medium-sized plants. In addition, perennials are very easy to manage. Planting them in groups will ensure that they get the space they need to grow and thrive. However, you must have the patience to wait for them to mature.
Before planting your perennial plants, make sure you have watered the soil thoroughly. Dig the planting hole slightly deeper than the pot size. Once the soil is sufficiently moist, the soil should be twice as wide as the pot. Once the planting hole is prepared, mix the soil mix with organic matter, and firm it with your hands. After planting, you can add mulch to the surrounding area, but do not cover the stems of the plants. It is important to water the soil around your perennial plants every two weeks to avoid dry soil.
Hostas are shade-tolerant perennials that grow to three feet tall. Their leaves vary from green to gold. Some varieties of hostas are drought-resistant, deer and rabbit-resistant. They are hardy and durable, growing well in full sun, shade, and part shade. Some types are drought-tolerant and can grow in moist soil. These perennials will flower for about two years, but they will need dividing after the first couple of years.
When planting your perennial garden, be sure to choose varieties that bloom throughout the season. Choose those with early blooming characteristics, such as hellebore, trillium, and daffodils, and perennials that bloom in the fall and winter. Similarly, late-blooming perennials, such as black-eyed Susan, aster, and Russian sage, will give you color and texture throughout the growing season.
If you’re planting a perennial garden for fall, be sure to include late-blooming varieties to extend the season and fill up bare spots. Monkshood and anemones will add drama and color to the autumn landscape, while lilacs and astilbe are gorgeous late-season bloomers. When planning your perennial garden, consider how to divide plants to make the most of your space. And be sure to use a trowel to make your measurements.