Perennial plants have been gracing landscapes for decades, bringing numerous benefits to garden and gardener. And everyone can grow them, even if deer roam the area. Here are some tips for choosing and caring for these longtime favorites.

Benefits Beyond Measure

Perennials may very well be the perfect plants, given the many ways they give more than they need. They return year after year, so there is a long-lasting return on investment, and less planting! What’s more, many perennials can be divided and moved, which means more plants at no cost.

In addition, they offer refuge to wildlife, seeds for birds, and food for our ever important pollinators. Deep root systems sustain perennial plants during drought and help prevent soil erosion. And given the numerous colors, shapes and textures, perennials transform gardens of all sizes and styles.

Choosing Perennial Plants

*Know your growing zone before delving into plant selection. Find your zone by entering your zip code. Before making purchases, be sure varieties can be grown in your zone, and that sun and shade needs will be met. This is one of the keys to gardening success – putting the “right plant in the right place”.

*Consider plant layouts. Perennials are very versatile, so there are countless ways to feature them. Create a border garden, grow perennials in containers, place some around the foundation to soften surfaces. It’s a good idea to lay out the plants first, so designs can be finalized before planting.

*Choose perennials with varying blooms times, so the garden is adorned in different colors and textures throughout the year. To get started, take a look at this chart of perennials by flowering season, which includes some of the easiest, most popular perennial varieties to grow.

Care and Protection Tips

Most perennial plants are low-maintenance and high-performing, once established. Just follow a few simple care steps to keep your treasures healthy and robust.

• Plant them where they will get needed sun or shade and proper watering. And be sure plants are matched to their tolerance for dry or wet conditions.
• Add organic matter, such as compost or shredded leaves, to improve the soil’s fertility, texture, and water retention capacity.
• Protect the garden from deer dining with some fragrant perennials. The aromas, pleasing to people, are disturbing to deer. In addition, perennial plants that have fuzzy or prickly leaves will also annoy deer, prompting them to leave.
• Keep all plants covered with topical Bobbex Deer Repellent, tested and proven to be most effective at preventing deer foraging. Eco-friendly Bobbex is composed of organic elements that are safe for people, plants, and animals.

The Power of Perennials

Perennials are one of nature’s most generous gifts. They bring awe and joy to visitors, feed birds and pollinators, welcome wildlife, and help sustain the environment. Keep these prized plants thriving, and the landscape will glow with magnificence for years.