In spring, garden centers are full of beautifully blooming perennials. They grow in containers and are just waiting to be planted in the garden. However, the different planting periods are not always associated with advantages.
When is the ideal planting time for perennials?
The best time to plant perennials is the autumn months from September to November, as they have enough time to take root. Spring planting from mid-March to mid-May is also possible, but requires more care in terms of water supply.
Autumn planting desired
Planting out in the autumn months takes place when the plants announce their hibernation through the fall of leaves. Evergreen plants also complete their above-ground growth in autumn. They invest all their energy in developing new roots, so warm and moist soil is required. Planting is possible from September to November provided there is no risk of frost.
Advantages
During the autumn months, the selection of plants in hardware stores and tree nurseries is particularly large. In spring, the ornamental plants ring in the new season with strong budding. The perennials will survive dry periods better during the coming summer months because they have already had enough time to take root.
Spring planting as an alternative
If you missed the fall date, you can still plant your plant selection in the garden after winter. Sensitive plants that are not completely frost hardy should preferably be planted in spring. Autumn chrysanthemums and lilies are typical examples. Depending on the location and weather, the period extends from mid-March to mid-May. At this planting date, there is increased care required, as there may be increased periods of dryness. Therefore, make sure you have sufficient water supply.
Avoid summer planting
Perennials are available in containers all year round. In principle, the plants can also be planted in the garden during the summer months. During this period the plants are in their main growth phase. They invest their energy in the development of leaves, flowers and fruits. The roots take on the function of supplying water and nutrients. Their growth is restricted during this time. Rooting is therefore difficult in summer, so you have to prepare the soil well and care for the perennials optimally.
Putting perennials in the garden
Dig up the soil deeply and clear the area of root weeds. Depending on the needs of the ornamental plants, improve the substrate with either sand or compost to improve permeability and nutrient availability. A long-term fertilizer (€11.00 at Amazon) creates good starting conditions for most species.
How to plant:
- Place the perennial in a water bath
- shorten above-ground plant parts to stimulate root growth
- Dig a planting hole with twice the volume of the root ball
- Insert the plant, fill in the excavation and press down well
- Water the soil thoroughly
A mulch layer creates better growing conditions because the soil cannot dry out as quickly during the hot season. However, fresh grass clippings are not suitable because cuttings that are too wet easily start to mold. When the perennials have grown, the first pruning takes place in autumn. This is not necessarily necessary for all plants, because dead plant stems provide overwintering quarters for insects and act as winter protection.