Thursday, March 10, 2011

Make a Perennial Garden Yourself

Planning a perennial garden is as easy as planting herbaceous, instead of trees or shrubs. You just have to know where to start. Maybe you started with annuals, but perennials will add a new design. Starting with a perennial border is a great way to start.

What ever you choose a perennial garden will give you pleasure for years to come. Your Zinnias, petunias and sunflowers are going to be planted every season. A herbaceous perennial will survive winter and drought.
The reason for this is their underground roots. For example if you plant phlox, day lilies or purple cone flowers, they will survive the winter elements.



Of course just like any project you are doing, it is best to start with a plan before you start. Making a drawing can help plan your garden before you begin. It is best to be flexible with your plan because the garden will change over time. Plants you put this year, may not be one's you want next year, so group your plants in order to change them if you wish. Some gardens are great looking by planting different plants all the same colors. Another idea is to plant blooming plants that peak during one season.

First step in a great plan is assess your site where you plan to plant. Be aware of the amount of sunshine, shade,  and other elements that will impact what selections you will make. Balance and symmetry will also play a important role. What else will you include in your garden. Like a arbor or trellis, and will it be in your garden year round. Going bigger for these items is better than going small.

Figure if you will be edging your garden with other elements like stone. And if so what color, and shape will you use. Hoses are another great asset to shape your garden up with.

It's always nice when you add some woody plants, some shrubs or even small trees. Make a framework to support all the perennials. Using variety with different size, and foliage is another great idea. Don't be afraid to bring tall plants from the back and mix it up a bit. They look great in the middle also. If you wish to achieve a unified look use a repetition pattern.




Grouping plants of the same type isn't a bad idea either. Doing this will impact your garden. If you think you planted your plants in the wrong area don't be afraid to move them. Perennials are very hardy.

Do you have a garden tip, post it here.
 

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