Herbaceous Perennials at Focus

Herbaceous perennials

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Herbaceous Perennials are plants that normally grow from below soil level during the Spring. In Summer and Autumn they produce leaves, flowers, and in a small number of cases attractive fruit. They then die down below ground level during Winter to re-emerge in the Spring to start the cycle all over again normally, year after year.

Herbaceous Perennials can be grown from seed or some from softwood cuttings taken in the Spring, and by division of mature root clumps. However, much time and effort can be saved by purchasing plants from Garden Centres and Retail Nurseries, where a wide range is available.

Most will be available in the Spring and Summer, although strong-growing types can be planted all year round. They are usually available as small plants from early Spring onwards and then later in the year in larger pots, when you may have the added advantage of seeing the plant in flower.

Soil preparation

Good soil preparation is essential and digging the soil to a depth of 23cm (9in) is a minimum requirement. Add organic material such as garden compost, well-rotted farmyard manure, mushroom compost or a proprietory planting medium.

Applying a general fertilizer to the soil in mid Spring will help sustain growth and build up good root clumps which in turn will give more foliage and flower performance. With taller growing varieties it may be necessary to provide support with canes or similar proprietory arrangements.

Dividing root clumps

Every three to four years it is advisable in early to mid-Spring to dig up and divide into fist-sized sections, discarding any old woody parts.

Ensure that throughout the operation the plants are not allowed to dry out.

Dig the soil over, add organic material and a general fertilizer and return one of the divisions to the original planting position. Use the surplus to expand the planting or to start a new border.

Hanging baskets

Herbaceous Perennials have many uses in the garden, from borders planted solely with the many types available, to mixed plantings with shrubs, trees and roses. When planted en-masse they can give a very impressive display and collecting one specific type can add to the interest.

Some prefer wet (bog garden) soils which can give that luxuriant feeling to the planting, whilst others are at home in dry sunny spots. Carpeting and ground-hugging varieties can work well to cover banks and help stabilise the soil against erosion. They also have a role to play in underplanting shrubs and tree plantings.

More and more Herbaceous Perennials are finding their way into containers and even hanging baskets where many such as Hostas (Plantain Lily) offer a permanent Spring and Summer display.

To be sure that the plant you have chosen will grow well in your type of soil, it is best to refer to the plant label or ask a member of the Garden Centre or Nursery staff.