Low Border Plants for Portland, Oregon: Color All Season

Under-2-Foot Perennials and Annuals for Sun/Part Shade

Portland’s mild climate (Zone 8b) supports a long bloom season.

Top Picks

• Perennial geranium – mounding, 12–18", many colors.
• Low asters & chrysanthemums – fall color.
• Columbine – spring, many hues.
• Zinnias – annual, self-sows, all summer.
• Roses (dwarf/groundcover) – easier than reputation suggests.

Soil First: Super Soil Recipe

(See Article 33289) Amend planting area deeply for best results.

Weed Prevention

Apply Preen (or corn gluten for organic) in early spring and midsummer after weeds are removed. No seeding for 6 weeks after.

Resources

Bluestone Perennials (custom search), Spring Hill Nursery.