Are you interested in starting a perennial garden this season? This article provides some helpful tips when thinking about establishing a new garden project.
First and foremost, make sure you know what USDA Plant Hardiness Zone you are located in. In Minnesota, you want to look for varieties that thrive in zones 4-5. Click here for more detailed information on hardiness zones.
Secondly, choose the right spot. You’ll want to ensure you have adequate sunlight. Most perennials thrive in full sun (6+ hours daily), although there are plenty that will thrive in the shade as well. Not only will you want to make sure you have adequate sunlight, but well-drained soil is imperative for keeping the plants healthy.
Start Small!
It’s easy to get excited and dream about creating a large perennial garden right off the bat, but remember you can add to your garden each year. We recommend starting with a 4x4 foot or 6x6 foot bed for beginners.
- Once you have your location selected, prepare the soil.
- Remove existing vegetation by clearing the area of grass and weeds.
- Amend the soil 8-10” deep by mixing in compost or manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Select Minnesota-hardy Perennials
Consider these options for sun-drenched areas:
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| Bee Balm (Monarda) | Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia) | Coneflowers (Echinacea) |
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| Daylilies | Yarrow | Sedums |
Consider these shade-tolerant perennials for less sunny areas:
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| Hostas | Astilbe |
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| Coral Bells (Heuchera) | Ferns |
Each Untiedt’s garden center offers a different variety of perennials. If you are ever looking for something specific, simply ask an associate and they can always check another location for you.
Plant Your Perennials
Create a plan for where you want each plant to go, and lay each plant in its place. Follow planting instructions by spacing plants according to their mature size.
After planting, water your garden thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. To help conserve moisture, applying a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around the plants is helpful.
Once you have planted, do not neglect ongoing care of your garden. Water your garden regularly. Especially during dry periods, water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Weed regularly as well, to keep the area free of weeds. Weeds compete with the perennials for water and nutrients, which you do not want to happen.
Additional Tips & Resources
Like all good things, growing seasons in Minnesota come to an end every year. Prepare for winter by cutting back most perennials to the ground in late fall. Depending on varieties, some winter better when covered with leaves or mulch.
The University of Minnesota Extension offers a variety of science-based information, including courses and events that are open to the public, as well as access to researchers and educators. Make sure to take advantage of anything they have to offer that helps you with your perennial garden!
