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About PerennialsPerennials are plants that live for more than 2 years, often for many years. Most woody plants and many herbaceous plants are perennials. |
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Are there general watering guidelines I can follow for my flower bed of both perennials and annuals?In hot, dry weather, you might need to water two or three times a week until plants settle in. Then, once a week usually suffices—unless nature provides. |
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Buying perennialsSome perennials, such as coreopsis and columbine, are sold in six-packs like annuals because they grow quickly from seed. More often, perennial plants are grown from root divisions or cuttings and are sold individually in peat or plastic pots. As with annuals, look for compact, stocky plants with a bushy crown of leaves. Avoid plants with brown leaves, plants coming into flower, and plants that have weak, gangly stems. |
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Can hostas be divided after they have already started to grow in the spring, and if not, when can thHostas can be divided almost anytime, but very early spring before they have started to grow and then again in the fall are preferred. The reasoning is to allow the roots time to reestablish before the hot weather sets in. Make sure to water them well the day before you dig them and water them in well afterwards. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until they are reestablished. |
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Can I prune my hibiscus to keep it from getting too large?Perennial hibiscus (rose mallow) can be pruned in the spring, just as new growth begins to appear. To keep it under control (once you've pruned it back), just pinch the tips of the stems regularly. This will encourage new growth near the center of the plant |
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Dividing perennialsWater the plant you will be dividing and the area surrounding it very thoroughly a few days before you dig. This will make digging much easier. |
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Do I need to cut the dead blooms from my mums?Tip: Follow the stem down to where it forms a "V" and cut away the top with the spent flowers. The smaller stems that form the "V" will grow longer and produce new (slightly smaller) flowers. |
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Feeding PerennialsRemember, the need for nitrogen is greater for plants in full sun than for those growing in the shade, so be sure to give these plants a little extra attention. |
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I planted irises last fall and only half of them bloomed. Do you know why?Bearded iris grows from rhizomes, which should be planted just at soil level. If yours were planted too deeply, they may be indicating their distress by not blooming. Wait until July or August to dig and replant them. The soil should be well-draining, with some organic matter worked in. After digging, trim the leaves to about 6 inches and place each rhizome so the top is just below the soil surface, spacing them 1-2 feet apart. |
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Is elephant ear a perennial and how do I care for this plant?Elephant ear is a nonhardy plant in cold winter areas, so it needs to be dug out and stored each winter. It does well in sun or partial shade and requires a rich, evenly moist soil. It grows quickly each summer and provides an outstanding tropical look to the garden. |
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