Perennials, like old friends return year after year, growing in size and stature until they reach their full maturity. Although they live on longer, many perennials lose their vigor after 3-4 years, and should be replaced. Most perennial plants may be divided to produce new plants, or they may be grown from seeds or cuttings. Perennials are available as 4 inch starters, or in gallon size or larger pots.

The steps which it takes to plant annuals and perennials are basically the same, but with a few variances. Refer to plant care labels for specific requirements and cultural practices for your plants such as sun, water, pruning, division, etc. When you plant a perennial, you must consider that your plant will be in the same spot for several years. As such, the preparation of the ground must be more complete. Annuals on the other hand will do just fine in any reasonably rich soil, with a minimum of feeding.

This planting guide will show you how to plant either type of plant, starting with preparing an entire planting area. If you plan to only put in a few annual color spots somewhere, you can get away with skipping the first couple of these steps. Simply dig a hole 2-3 times larger and twice as deep as the annuals pot. Your only concern will be with preparing the soil in this hole, so the easiest thing to do may be to buy a bag of commercial potting soil and plant your annual into the hole as though it were a container plant.

Plant Guides