Perennial Flower Gardening Tips

Site Selection

• Walk around your yard at various times of the day to determine how many hours of sun or shade each part receives. Delphinium (Delphinium spp.) and Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) prefer sunny locations while other plants, such as Hosta (Hosta spp.), thrive in shade.

  Investigate drainage in the garden to see which areas tend to stay wet. In those spots, you might try planting Irises (Iris sibirica) or Violas (Viola odorata.) While many flowers wilt under very moist conditions, these two plants will flourish.

Perennial Displays

• Different types of perennial displays suit different garden plans. A perennial border usually follows a path or stands against a wall or other structure. If it lines a fence or wall, do not plant it too wide or you will find it difficult to prune and cultivate. If you desire a wider border, create a walkway between the fence or wall and the flower bed.

  Island beds provide a stunning focal point for a garden. As the name implies, an island bed is viewable from all sides, with taller plants gracing the center of the island and low-growing plants lining the outer edge. Island beds allow sunlight to penetrate all parts of the bed.

Specialty Gardens

• To establish a butterfly garden, plant sun-loving perennials such as Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) or Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa). Since butterflies are cold-blooded insects, they prefer warm, sunny garden spots.

  In areas where water conservation issues affect gardeners, plant African Daisies (Osteospermum) or Beach Strawberries (Fragaria Chiloensis). They require little water and provide a creeping ground cover and bright color.

  Those who wish to replenish a damaged environment may plant a rain garden with native perennial flowers. In areas of heavy deforestation, a rain garden catches water runoff and may actually take the place of lost trees.

Problems and Solutions

• Native perennials are generally less susceptible to disease and pests than other garden plants, but problems may occur. To prevent them, purchase certified seed or plants that appear healthy and free of disease. Do not replant a particular species, or its close relatives, in an area where problems have previously occurred. After planting, keep the garden tidy by removing all leaves, weeds and loose vegetation.

  Your state's cooperative extension office offers the best advice for your particular needs. It understands the local environment and provides you with information on diseases and pests common to your area. It also furnishes solutions to problems that may arise. Use this resource before small problems grow large.