Of all the flowers for fall planting, perennials are the easiest to grow. They are self-supporting and can survive cold winters, hot summers, and droughts with no concern for die back. They are also highly attractive, as there is a multitude of beautiful colors to choose from year after year. Some are hardy perennials, while others prefer a more transitional environment, where they can change color as the season progresses. There is an endless array of options to consider when it comes to perennial flower garden planting.
Many people mistakenly think that annuals are the only type of perennial flowers for fall planting. This could not be further from the truth. Annual plants, which include many shrubs, vines, and trees, will bloom again in the spring, depending on how their growing conditions were at the time of blooming. Annuals are not a good choice for most flower gardeners, as their roots spread out too wide.
Perennials, on the other hand, do not have to be watched over each year as they mature. You simply remove them from the flowerbed when they look to be in full bloom. You can keep them in a single pot or divide them among several pots in the garden. Perennial flowers such as sunflowers, daffodils, and sunflowers can remain green and bloom year after year, with virtually no care needed.
Sunflowers, on the other hand, have very poor root growth. They typically bloom during the summer months and then die back significantly during the winter. They are best removed during the height of flower production in late summer or early fall. If you plan to use them for next year’s flower bed, dig them up and move them back under cover. Be prepared, though, to spend the required time training them to take down.
Some perennials, such as marigolds, provide colorful flowering throughout the year. You may be able to grow them throughout the year in your flower garden if you plan appropriately. These plants grow quickly, though, so they will need to be divided or sold as soon as they have established themselves. Other perennial flowers for fall planting should be planted at the base of a tree, as they will climb up the tree. Consider using a trellis system to support these plants during the growing season.
Some perennials, such as hydrangeas, are best planted from seed. Begin preparing your fall planting plans by selecting the correct date for your planting. Choose a warm, dry climate with well-drained soil for your seedling plants.
If you are growing a single type of flower, such as daffodils, tulips, or violets, you should be able to find information about that plant online. The plant name and the variety should give you an idea of how many plants you should grow in your flower garden. Be sure to allow some time for the newly planted plants to acclimate to their new environment. After a few days, you should be able to move them into their permanent home. Consider pruning the plants as they begin to bloom. Cut away any dead growth to improve the appearance of the flowerbed.
Most perennial flowers for fall planting can survive just fine without being weeded. However, you should make sure they get enough weeding to feed the roots with the nutrients they need to survive. Weeds can take over and cause damage to your flower garden in a hurry. It is better to wait than it is to try and recover from a mistake that could have been easily prevented.