Perennials are plants that return for several seasons in a row. They give the garden a sense of constancy and can provide a succession of blooms....
Perennials are plants that return for several seasons in a row. They give the garden a sense of constancy and can provide a succession of blooms....
View Organic Gardening RSS feedPerennials are plants that return for several seasons in a row. They give the garden a sense of constancy and can provide a succession of blooms. Read on to find out how simple it can be to grow a perennial garden the organic way.
Growing perennials is a rewarding activity. Year after year, flowers and foliage burst from the ground, sometimes with very little work on the part of the gardener. Because perennials often spend several years growing in the same spot, the organic gardener's maxim of 'feed the soil' is even more important. By providing your perennials with healthy, fertile soil and following an organic care regimen, you will be rewarded for years to come.
Like all types of organic gardening, growing healthy perennials starts with the soil. The first step involves having your soil tested. This can be done by purchasing a do-it-yourself test kit at a nursery, or by sending a sample to your local extension service for analysis. The extension service may be able to follow up by providing you with a report on your soil and recommendations for how to improve it depending on what types of plants you want to grow. In any case, adding organic matter to the soil in the form of compost or rotted manure is always a good idea. Depending on the soil test results, you may end up adding other types of amendments.
It's important to learn the needs of your plants in order to give them the optimum conditions for healthy growth. A healthy plant is easier to take care of, because it won't be as susceptible to insect and disease infestations as one that isn't so healthy. Be sure to note whether the plant likes sun or shade, moist or dry conditions. Also note the size the plant will achieve at maturity. Crowding plants together will not only inhibit growth, but it will also provide the perfect condition for fungal diseases to attack. Be sure to plant your perennials at the recommended depth and give them enough room to grow.
All garden plants will benefit from a nice blanket of mulch. To prevent weeds and retain soil moisture, a 2-inch to 3-inch thick layer of mulch is necessary. Be sure not to apply the mulch too close to the crown of the plant, as this can result in rot.
Watering is extremely important throughout the first year when the perennials are getting established. Don't let the root ball dry out. This generally means sticking your finger into the soil and testing for dryness. It is time to water if the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. When you water, it is best to water deeply and thoroughly by using a soaker hose at the base of each plant or by letting the water from a regular garden hose trickle slowly into the soil. After they are established in your garden, most perennials will only need an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or from the hose. Some drought-tolerant perennials can withstand even less water. If you live in a dry area, such plants are well worth a look.
By following these tips, your perennials will get off to a healthy, strong start, and your garden will look beautiful for years to come.
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