Perennial Cultural Practices

Watering: Newly planted perennials should receive about 1” of water per week. You should water generously an average of 2 to 3 times per week in mid summer and once a week in spring and Autumn/early Fall. On the other hand if it rains every day or other day for a total of 1” or more per week then you should not have to water that week. Watering should be monitored closely for the first year.

Maintenance: As the perennials grow you should dead head (remove flowers that have gone by) and stake plants as needed. In mid to late October (or early Spring before new growth) you should cut back all foliage of your perennials to the ground with the exception of low growing semi-evergreen ground covers (Lamium, Creeping Phlox, Thyme, Vinca, Hellebores, etc.). You may want to leave plants like sedum or ornamental grasses for winter interest and cut back early next spring. Many perennials can be divided every 3 to 5 years to maintain their vigor. Perennials are best divided in early spring with hand pruners or a large sharp knife. Care should be taken to not damage root tubers (daylilies), eyes (hosta, epimedium) and roots should be cut when needed instead of torn apart. Mature plants may need help prying apart gently with a spade, fork or shovel. Most of the perennials I use in my garden designs are low maintenance and require little or no division.

Fertilizer: I use organic fertilizer Pro-Grow 5-3-4 (blue bag) found at local garden centers and nurseries. I apply it liberally in early spring and fall.

Mulch: Bark mulch should be applied no more than 2 to 3” thick and avoid burying the base of the perennials.

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