SUPPLIES NEEDED: PERLITE , COMPOST, TOPSOIL

GROWING PERENNIALS:
Perennials are non-woody plants that live 2 or more years under local conditions. The above ground parts of these plants are generally killed to the ground by the first frost in the Fall, but the roots live through the Winter. The cycle begins anew in the Spring. Perennials do not require yearly replanting, but regular maintenance is needed.
SITE ANALYSIS:
Notice should be taken of soil type, exposure, and the amount of sunlight, shade and wind that each bed will require for 6 to 8 hrs. of sun per day. Many are adaptable to different situations, although certain conditions like heavy shade and wet soils will reduce selection.
SOIL PREPARATION:
Soil quality is most important when selecting Perennial plants. Adequate soil moisture is needed during the growing season, but it is important that the soil not stay excessively moist during the winter dormant season. To improve drainage: mix 1/3 perlite, 1/3 compost, and 1/3 topsoil. Soil amendments should be worked to a depth of 6” to 10” prior to planting.
PLANT SELECTION:
If when removing the plant from the container, roots are visible on the outside; they must be scored/cut through to a depth of Ύ” and spread apart. This allows the roots to spread out and prevent girdling and stunted growth. Generally container grown plants can be planted at any time during the growing season. The majority of Perennials should be planted at the same depth as the soil depth in the container or pot.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE:
Once established, Perennials require only routine watering and maintenance. Watering, fertilizing and mulching are essential practices that help promote longer bloom periods. One inch of water weekly is suitable for plant establishment. Once established, many Perennials will require watering only during periods of prolonged dry periods. Watering should be deep, infrequent, and applied directly to the soil.
FERTILIZING AND STAKING:
With proper soil preparation and improvement, most Perennials require little additional fertilization. A starter fertilizer may be used when first planted to aid in more rapid establishment of root systems. Staking varies with wind exposure. This may be important for taller growing Perennials such as Delphinium or Lilies on windy sites. It is best to stake when plants are sending up growth because smaller plants are easier to work with and less likely to be damaged by staking. Stake 2/3 as high the plant stem’s mature height. Push the stake into the ground close to the base of the shoot. Mulch should be applied to help suppress weeds, improve soil condition and to conserve moisture. About 2” of mulch is enough, but do not place it against the base of the shoot.
DEADHEADING:
Deadheading helps to encourage stronger and healthier shoots, as well as promote reblooming. After the first frost, cut Perennials down to the base or leave 2” to 6” and remove any debris. Most Perennials can be divided and sometimes may require periodic division to maintain vigor and maximum flowering. Most dividing depends upon bloom time. For Mid-Summer to Fall bloomers, divide in early Spring, before new growth begins. For those that bloom in the Spring to early Summer, divide in Fall or after foliage dies. Replant as soon as possible after dividing.