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Perennials are the backbone of the garden. Lasting three years or longer, these plants give maturity and stability to the garden. They can be used to create a framework and structure a garden, while still giving a colorful show when in bloom. If well-maintained, perennials can offer plenty of unique shapes and textures to your garden.

It is important to remember that no two varieties are alike. Be sure to do a little research to identify your plant's specific requirements. In general, most perennials will do well with the guidelines listed below.

There are three main types of perennials: hardy, half-hardy and tender. The term "hardy" refers to how well the plant responds to the cold.

Hardy Perennials - These are plants that can tolerate the cold. They will need little to no protection during the winter months. They can handle frost and light freezing without much damage. They cannot, however, handle extreme heat or drought well. In those conditions, it is common for them to wither a bit. Be sure that they are properly watered and they should bounce back when the temperatures cool down. This is a good reason to know a little about your plants before you plant them - some plants are not meant for some climate zones.

Half-Hardy Perennials - These are plants that can take a little bit of cold, but will need extra protection during severe winters. A layer of mulch 2-4 inches thick will provide extra protection to the roots. A cover, such as plastic sheeting or a pot turned upside down (depending on the size of your plant) will protect the body of the plant.

Tender Perennials - These are plants that cannot tolerate the cold. They are native plants to warmer regions of the world, such as the tropics. They will need protection from fall through early spring, depending on the severity of your winter. Typically, when the temperature of the soil is about 60 degrees farenheit, the plants can be uncovered. Some tender perennials, like bulbs and tubers, require being dug up and brought indoors.

It is important that you know a little about the needs of your perennials. With thousands of varieties, they each have their own needs and requirements.

Soil

The best thing you can do for any type of plant is to give it a well-prepared bed of soil. Well-tilled soil with plenty of organic matter is a good starting point for your perennials. It is advisable to till down about 10 inches to work in your amendments.

The pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5, but may vary depending on the type of plant.

Planting

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