Planting Perennials for Peak Performance

For thriving perennials, start with well-amended soil: dig at least 8 inches deep and incorporate 2–3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure. Remove plant from nursery pot, loosen coiled roots, position, firm soil, and water in.

Fertilize lightly three times during bloom season. Water regularly—stressed plants produce a quick, weak flush then stop flowering.

Support Strategies

Tall perennials often need staking. Avoid visible hardware by:

• Planting weak-stemmed tall perennials between woody perennials or shrubs that act as natural supports.
• Using bamboo or metal stakes for a few stems; keep ties loose.
• Installing hoops at planting time for large, multi-branching plants, or using linking stakes later to corral long stems.