What is a Perennial ? Generally speaking, a perennial is a plant that lives for more than 2 years. Most perennials are known to bloom the second year after seeding, however there are now perennials available that will flower the first year, and will continue to bloom for years to come. These types are sometimes called Instant Perennials.

Perennials can be grown by anyone. From the beginner to the experienced gardener, those who simply want to enjoy all of the relaxing benefits of gardening can grow perennials. Perennial gardening can indeed be a pleasurable year-round hobby.

Plan your perennial garden. Choose a location that is pleasing to you. You can tailor your plant selection to match the location. Some ideas to consider are perennial borders, beds along a wall or fence, an Island garden or a Container garden for that special balcony or patio. Once a site has been selected, determine the amount of sun the site will receive daily. There are 3 types of sites - Full Sun, Partial Shade (a minimum of 6 hours of filtered sunlight each day) and Full Shade. This will assist in the selection of the correct perennials for the site. Then plan your garden, choosing perennials that offer a variety of different plant heights, colours and bloom periods. This will offer an ever-changing garden to enjoy throughout the summer. (See the chart on the back for information on plant heights, bloom period, location etc. of all Perennials offered by McKenzie Seeds)

Start your seed according to the instructions on the back of each McKenzie Seeds Perennial Flower packet. While most perennials should be started indoors, some may be planted directly into the garden. If starting indoors, fill a seeding tray with potting soil to 1cm (1/2") from the top. Do not use soil from the garden as it becomes hard and may carry disease or insects from the garden. Sow the seed to the required depth, moisten the soil by misting then cover, if necessary, with plastic to make a mini greenhouse. Keep soil moist at all times. Germination may take up to 21 days. After the plants have produced their second set of leaves they may need thinning or transplanting to larger containers to avoid overcrowding.

Prepare the Perennial garden site by clearing and tilling the soil as soon as the ground can be worked. Some organic matter should be added to the soil. Plants may be transplanted into the perennial garden as soon as all danger of frost has passed. A layer of mulch around the plants will assist in retaining moisture and keep the soil cooler. This will encourage root growth, which in turn promotes good plant growth.

Water regularly. If the soil is dry 1.25-2cm (1/2-3/4") below the surface it is time to water. Do not soak the soil. For container grown plants, water either from the top of the soil, or stand the container in water to allow the soil to soak up enough water until the soil on top is moist.

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