Planting perennials is a straightforward process when done correctly, ensures healthy growth and long-lasting blooms. Many perennials benefit from planting in Autumn here in Australia. As Summer is our harshest season, in contrast to many European countries where Winter is their harshest. Planting in Autumn allows the plants to establish their roots whilst the soil is still warm, (some will even still grow their roots over winter) and continue to establish themselves with the warming soil in Spring, before the Summer drought occurs. Planting in Autumn gives the perennial up to 9 months to establish before the harshness of Summer. In contrast a Spring planted perennial has a maximum of 3 months to establish before the heat of Summer, and will require closer attention with its after care.
Here are some detailed steps to guide you through planting perennials:
Steps to Planting Perennials
1. Choose the Right Location:
- Sunlight: Ensure the site matches the sunlight requirements of the perennial (full sun, partial shade, or full shade).
- Soil: Check the soil type and drainage. If the soil is not suitable for the plant's requirements, consider another location. (Right Plant, Right Place as quoted by Beth Chatto)
2. Prepare the Soil:
- Remove Weeds: Clear the planting area of weeds, rocks, and debris.
- Amend the Soil: Add compost or organic matter around the area to enrich the soil.
3. Dig the Hole:
- Size of the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and a little deeper than the plant's root ball. Loosen the base of the hole and refill to the depth of the root ball. (This gives the roots friable soil to spread out into)
- Spacing: Space the holes according to the mature size of the plant to prevent overcrowding.
4. Prepare the Plant:
- Watering: Water the plant in its pot thoroughly before planting to reduce transplant shock. If very dry or the potting mix has become hydrophobic soak in a bucket or wheelbarrow of water overnight.
- Remove the Plant from the Pot: Gently squeeze the sides of the pot and tap the bottom to loosen the root ball. Carefully remove the plant without damaging the roots.
- Tease the Roots: If the roots are tightly packed, gently tease them apart to encourage outward growth.
5. Plant the Perennial:
- Position the Plant: Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. This prevents the plant from being too deep, which can cause rot.
- Backfill the Hole: Fill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too much.
6. Watering:
- Initial Watering: Water the plant thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
- Ongoing Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Newly planted perennials need regular watering until they establish strong roots.
7. Mulching:
- Apply Mulch: Spread a 5-10cm layer of mulch around the plant, keeping it away from the stem to prevent rot. Applying mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, improve soil biome and regulate soil temperature.
8. Staking (if necessary):
- Support Tall Plants: If the perennial is tall or prone to flopping, consider adding a plant support at the time of planting. A U shaped support can gently support a plant rather than be unnaturally held tight by stakes.
9. Aftercare
- Monitor Growth: Keep an eye on the plant for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves.
- Weeding: Regularly remove weeds that compete with the perennial for nutrients and water.
- Fertilizing: If signs of nutrient deficiency are evident feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during its growing season.
- Pruning and Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from going to seed prematurely.
- Cutting back: Cut back old growth before new shoots appear in Spring, after the root system has been able to extract as many nutrients as possible from the old foliage.
By following these steps, you can successfully plant, establish and care for perennials that will provide glorious foliage and flowers and enhance your garden for years to come.
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