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Preparation for Perennials in the Spring

by Mystify on May 27, 2009 with 0 Comments

This explains everything that has to be done in the spring for perennials from gardens to containers.

The spring is finally here after a long awaited winter and the smell, oh that glorious smell seems to tantalize the senses.Everywhere you look life is bursting forth, especially in your garden,however; after the novelty wears off and you have gotten used to the fact the wet dreary weather has finally gone, you begin to take notice of the weeds that seem to be popping up overnight and that fact that some of your perennials may look downtrodden and not quite what they looked like the year before,other areas may look bare, needing some extra plants to add color and life.Either way if your planting perennials or if you just want to take care of the perennials you already have, knowing what to do makes it much easier and your plants much happier.

How to get your perennials ready for the spring

Most perennials produce vigorous shoots in the spring, but some may be spindly.If this is the case when the plant is about one quarter of its final height,pinch out or cut back weak shoots ; the remaining remaining sturdy shoots will usually bear larger flowers.Stake plants that will require support when young to ensure that the stems will remain upright.
Dead-head regularly to prolong flowering.In spring when the ground is moist, apply a mulch of organic matter such as bark chips.
Perennials grown in a border should be divided not only for propagation purposes,but also to maintain their vigor, ideally every three years.Take care when lifting and replanting not to damage the roots of surrounding,plants ,shrubs or trees.
Delay cutting and mulching most perennial plants until the spring.In very cold areas leaving the top growth in place until the spring offers some frost protection to the crown of the plant.
For container grown perennials use loam based compost.Ensure that the compost in the containers does not dry out when plants are in growth;water on a daily basis in hot, dry weather.Mulching also helps to retain moisture.An old trick my grandmother once taught me is if available, moss always is a great way to retain moisture.

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Now that you have learned the ways to prepare your perennials for the spring,get out there and enjoy that wonderful spring air and don’t be afraid to dig in!

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