Dig It! The Power of Perennials
by Sage & Snow Garden Club
September 2, 2008
A perennial is a plant that lives for an indefinite period (versus an annual, such as a petunia, that dies each year), which includes trees and shrubs although it is largely used to describe herbaceous (non-woody) plants which die down each winter and re-grow in the spring. If you make a small investment by planting a perennial plant now, you can have a carefree garden for years to come. There are perennials to fit any soil type, moisture situation, or temperature regime and that bloom at any season of the year. They are perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. Perennials can be planted now for flowering next year. This time of year many garden centers have sales on perennials as well as tools, pots, and other garden needs. We gardeners like to share our plants, so you might also consider asking your neighbor if they would divide that clump of day lilies or hosta for you.
A few herbaceous perennials that grow well in our part of the country include graceful Rocky Mountain Columbine; spiky, tall Liatris; tough, daisy-flowered Purple Coneflower; versatile, drought-tolerant Sedums; fragrant Russian Sage; glowing pink Fireweed; butterfly- and hummingbird-friendly Rocky Mountain Penstemon; charming and sometimes fragrant Dianthus; low-growing Poppy Mallow; and Yarrow (some types can spread very rapidly, so keep this in mind when choosing the variety to plant). Since we are talking about plants that live a long time, do consider planting lilacs and peonies - both will reward you with many years of fragrance and color.
For more information on perennials, please join the Sage and Snow Garden Club at noon on the second Tuesday of each month in the Pinedale library. Contact us at Box 2280, Pinedale, WY, 82941, by email at sageandsnow@yahoo.com or call 307-859-8606. To find out more about the Garden Club, go to www.pindealeonline.com and click on the link under "clubs".
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