There's a lot going on with perennials in spring. There are typical questions that hobby gardeners ask themselves in relation to the blooming beauties this time of year - for example, whether perennials should be planted in spring and how to prune them. We have the answers!
How should perennials be cared for in spring?
Perennials should be cut, planted and cared for in spring. Prune most perennials in spring, plant frost-sensitive species and ensure adequate watering. Fertilize the plants and remove winter cover from mid-March. Check planted perennials in spring and gently press them into the ground if necessary.
Planting perennials in spring – makes sense?
Although you should plant most perennials in the fall; Depending on the type of perennial, however, it often makes sense to plant it in spring.
It is better to plant frost-sensitive perennials in spring to give them a favorable start. These include, for example, certain types of lilies.
Attention: There are sometimes long dry periods in spring. Then it is particularly important to water the freshly planted perennials sufficiently.
Note: Transplanting perennials should also tend to be done in spring - between the end of March and the beginning of May.
Cutting perennials in spring - advisable?
Yes, spring pruning is suitable for the majority of perennials. You only need to cut plants that sprout extremely early in the fall.
Here is an overview of the reasons why spring pruning is preferable for almost all other perennials:
- Protecting perennials from frost
- no bare beds in winter
- attractive fruit and seed heads
- Birds and beneficial insects are happy
Note: Don't forget to remove diseased plant parts in autumn. Otherwise your perennials risk becoming diseased.
In spring you also have to remove the plant remains (i.e. dry inflorescences, leaves and stems) that served as protection for the perennials in winter and fed birds.
Care for perennials in spring – how?
You have even more to do with your perennials in spring. For example, it is very important to fertilize plants at this time of year. Work compost or slow-release fertilizer into the soil around the perennials.
Note: Of course, you must first remove the winter cover if you used one. Do this by mid-March at the latest so that your perennials can breathe freely again in time.
Important: In the spring, check the perennials that you planted last fall. Are they frozen? Then you have to press the plants firmly back into the ground - with both hands, but carefully!
