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Perennials
are valuable for a wide range of uses in our landscapes. They beautify
the home setting, increase property values, and provide for a
succession of bloom and color. In addition, perennials are cost
effective, unlike annuals, which die after one growing season,
perennials grow anew from their roots each Spring. Given the right
location and proper care, perennials can be used in beds, borders, rock
gardens, woodlands, meadows, and container gardens.
Choosing the Right Material:
Choose
your plants according to their intended growing positions. Is the site
wet, dry, shady, or sunny? Many plants will thrive in various
situations and some need specific conditions to thrive. Invest some
time in studying your area before planting. Our labels will provide
you with much helpful information.
Preparing the Ground for Planting:
Most
perennials prefer a good, weed free, well drained soil which is able to
maintain moisture. Most prefer a soil pH of between 5.5 to 6.5. For
those that prefer a more alkaline soil, lime may be added. For those
that prefer a more acid soil, sulfer may be added. Dig the soil to a
depth of about 12", or more if possible. This will give the roots
plenty of room to grow. You can now incorporate bone meal, or other
fertilizers (if you wish) at the manufacturer's recommended rate.
How to Plant:
Container-
grown perennials may be planted anytime the soil is workable, from
early spring to early fall. Carefully remove the plant from the
container and plant at the same depth it was in the container. Firm
the soil around the plant to remove any air pockets around the
root-system. Water the plants thoroughly. It is best to mulch all
plantings especially for their first winter to minimize any damage from
frost heaving the plant from the soil and drying the roots.
Maintenance:
Water
when necessary, especially during the first year of establishment.
Once established, most plants require about an inch of water a week,
either from rain or irrigation. It is best to irrigate early in the
day to allow the foliage to dry before dark to reduce the incidence of
disease. Mulch to retain moisture loss, prevent weeds, and to keep
the roots cool. A good mulch is bark or wood chips. If you need to
stake any of your plants, it is best to do so early in the season
before the plant is actually damaged by falling over. If your
perennials seem to be losing vigor in their centers, it is probably
time to divide them. This can be done by using a shovel or spade and
cutting the plant in half. This division is best done in the spring
when growth is evident, but the plant is not too large.
Helpful Hints:
Keep
your climatic zone in mind when planting perennials. We live in Zone 7
on Long Island. The library has a wealth of information about
perennials, and don't hesitate to ask your local grower for
information. Providing the best home for your perennials is the most
important step to ensure their survival.
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