How to Choose the Best Location for Perennial Flowers

Perennial flowers are best planted in mid to late spring if they have been grown in a container. This gives them time to get a good root hold before the heat of summer comes to dry them out. Perennials are generally in a root ball form, with not many roots to be seen. If you see too many roots, the plant may be root bound and you will have many problems growing it in soil.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Perennial Flowers
• Soil/ yard
• Water
• Ruler or tape measure

1. Count how many plants you plan on putting into the ground. If there are more than 5 medium sized plants, you want about 7 1/2 feet to plant in. Measure out the area of your yard that gets good morning light and evening shade. This is a perennial favorite.

2. A good rule is for small plants is to plant them 6- to 2 inches apart. For medium plants, bury 12 to 18 inches apart and for large or tall plants go 1 1/2 to 3 foot apart. This gives ample room for roots to expand and grow.

3. Find the area in your yard that will accommodate the area needed for your number and size of plants. If these were bought in a store, refer to the tag as to how much water and light each plant will need. This will further help you divide your yard into sections for each type of flower need you encounter.

4. If you only have seeds and no tag, read the instructions for the type of flower you are raising. Many perennials have differing needs on water and light, so it is best to read your directions on the bulb container it is purchased in.

5. Remember that if you plant your perennials too close together, you will have to divide them up later so the roots do not become overgrown and unable to move. Follow the spacing guidelines to avoid this problem. If you must divide, do so in the late spring and early summer with plenty of water available. Move to a portion of the yard or soil that will give ample light and room to grow.

Tips & Warnings

• Each perennial has different specifications for light and water absorption requirements. Check with a local Greenhouse for more information on specific flowers, or use the Internet to search your flower name.