Growing Perennials in Containers: Long-Term Care and Division

The Joy of Potted Perennials

Watching ignored winter pots burst forth with fresh green growth, robust stems, and summer flowers is one of gardening's great pleasures. Many perennials return reliably for years in the same container—grown singly, paired, or in complementary medleys.

Early Years (1-2): Low Maintenance

Watering, deadheading, and feeding (controlled-release fertilizer at season start) suffice.

Years 3-4: Division Time

Mixed plantings become crowded. Autumn is ideal for division.

Container Sizing

• Tall perennials (2-4 feet): deep pots, 18+ inches diameter, ~20 inches deep.
• Low growers: wide bowls, 8+ inches deep.