It is important to know how to properly plant perennials in your landscape project. There are several factors that one should consider when trying to properly plant perennials. The time of year that the perennials are being planted will dictate if and what plants can be installed. Hot temperatures and low moisture will negatively affect any newly installed perennials. Perennials should be installed in the early spring or fall for the best results. Planting perennials during the summer is fine if they are properly taken care of. Perennials require frequent watering during the hot, dry summer months. If you are not committed to watering your plant all summer long, then you should probably hold off until fall or spring.
In order to properly plant perennials in your landscape, you will need to know the light requirements of the plant. Shade perennials should be planted in shade areas and full sun perennials should be planted in the sun. A lot of perennials can be planted in part shade to full sun locations. Along with light requirements comes soil requirements. The most successful way to properly plant perennials is in the correct soil. Most perennials fertile, nutrient rich soil to flourish. Some plants require dry soils and some plants require wet soils to maximize the quality of the plant. Learn about the plants requirements and amend the soil accordingly.
How to properly plant perennials.
- Dig your hole twice the size of the root ball of the plant.
- Break up the roots of the plant so that it does not become root bound.
- Amend your soil with compost or black dirt if needed.
- Install your perennial with the root ball of the plant at ground level. If your plant is too deep, it may cause your plant to suffocate or rot. If your plant is installed too high, the roots will be exposed and the plant will die.
- Place your plant in the middle of the hole and check for the proper depth of the plant. Once the depth is correct, begin to back fill the hole with soil. Work around the plant in a circular motion, pressing the soil down. Add a few inches of soil at a time so that it is easier to remove air pockets.
- Once your soil has filled the hole, water your plant. Continue watering your plant-based on its needs.