General Planting Tips

When to Plant

		Depending on your location, perennials can be planted in every season of the year.
		Spring plantings are common in all regions since plants have time to establish before the summer heat. Spring is a good time to divide many perennials.
		Summer plantings can be successful, provided that proper moisture is supplied.
		Fall planting is common in all regions, especially for early spring blooming varieties. Plant at least one month ahead of the projected killing frost date in your area to allow for proper plant establishment.
		Winter plantings are restricted to areas like southern California, Florida and Gulf Coast areas where frosts rarely occur.

Choosing Plants

Tip #1
Plan ahead for the type of plants you want, matched to the sun or shade conditions for your site and regional hardiness zone.

Tip #2
Choose healthy, vigorous plants. Avoid those with dry, pale, shriveled leaves or any with signs of insects or diseases.

Tip #3
Don't worry if plants are not in flower. Perennials are generally sold before their normal flowering period and will flower later if they have been properly conditioned.

Planting Site Preparation

		Improve both dry, sandy soils and wet, clayish soils by incorporating 4 to 6 inches (approximately 1 to 2 cubic yards per 100 square foot) of organic matter into the planting site to a total depth of 8 to 12 inches.
		Organic matter includes various composts, aged (not fresh) manure and peat moss.
		Soggy areas will need either drainage tile or an 8- to 12-inch raised bed.
		New planting sites should have a soil test after incorporating organic matter to determine pH (desired pH range of 5.5 to 6.5) and nutrient content.
		In general, new plants will benefit from incorporating 2 pounds of either superphosphate or bonemeal along with 2 pounds of a granular fertilizer (5-10-5, 5-10-10, 10-10-10) into the top 6 inches over a 100 square foot area.

How to Plant

		Dig a hole just as deep, and about twice as wide, as the plant's root ball.
		Remove the plant from the pot. Loosen the roots by making three to four shallow cuts with a knife or trowel to the sides and bottom of the root ball.
		Place plant in hole, with top of root ball level with the surrounding soil and fill halfway with soil. Fill hole with water and allow to drain.
		Fill the remainder of the hole with soil and water thoroughly. If desired, apply 2 to3 inches (approximately 1/2 to 1 cubic yard per 100 square foot) of mulch around plants for weed control and moisture retention.

Caring for Your Plants

		Water is critical for establishment; apply 1 inch of water (rain or hose) per week.
		Be sure to control weeds around plants until they are established. Mulching helps but some hand weeding may be needed.
		If sites are prepared properly, little fertilization is needed. Broadcast 2 pounds of 5-10-5, 5-10-10, or 10-10-10 per 100 square foot of area in early spring as new growth begins. Use only 1 pound per 100 square foot for Ferns.
		Refer to plant care labels for specific cultural practices for your perennials such as pruning, division, etc.
		Stake taller plants or support in a wire cage to reduce wind and rain damage.