How to Grow Perennials
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Perennials
Various species (Perennae)
flowerPerennials are plants that live for three or more years, returning from their root systems each growing season after dying back in winter or dormant periods. They encompass a vast range of flowering plants, foliage plants, and some herbs and shrubs that provide reliable, long-term garden structure and color. Perennials are valued for their ability to establish deep root systems, require less annual replanting than annuals, and often become more vigorous with age.
When should you plant Perennials in your zone?
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Example Perennials timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Perennials
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Perennials blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Perennials dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Varies by species; most temperate perennials thrive in zones 3-9. Check individual plant hardiness before selecting.
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Get my Perennials timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Year 1)
Full first growing seasonYoung transplants focus on root development; foliage grows modestly. Many perennials produce few or no flowers in their first year.
Keep soil consistently moist (not waterlogged). Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around base. Remove any flower buds to encourage root establishment. Stake tall varieties if needed.
Vegetative Growth (Year 1-2)
Months 6-18 from plantingPlant develops a strong root system and fuller foliage. Gradually increases in size and vigor. Some perennials may flower lightly in year 2.
Maintain consistent watering. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring. Deadhead any flowers to redirect energy to roots. Mulch annually.
Flowering (Year 2-3+)
Weeks to months, depending on speciesPlant reaches flowering maturity, producing abundant blooms at its characteristic time of year. Flower color, size, and abundance increase with age.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding (unless desired). Apply low-nitrogen, higher-phosphorus fertilizer monthly during bloom. Water at base to keep foliage dry.
Mid-Season & Summer Maintenance
4-8 weeks depending on season and locationPlant may transition between bloom cycles or enter dormancy in extreme heat. Some perennials rest, while others have second flushes.
Cut back or deadhead as needed. Reduce watering slightly during dormancy. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Support tall varieties with stakes or cages.
Fall Dormancy & Winter Preparation
8-16 weeks depending on zone and weatherFoliage dies back or turns color as temperatures drop. Plant enters dormancy to conserve energy for spring emergence.
Cut back dead foliage after hard frost (or leave for winter interest and wildlife). Apply 2-4 inches of mulch after ground freezes to protect roots. Divide perennials in fall if needed. Reduce watering significantly.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs; neem oil if severe
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Increase humidity; spray with water; use miticide or neem oil; remove heavily infested leaves
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Improve air circulation; remove affected foliage; spray with sulfur or fungicide; water at soil level only
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and
Handpick (especially at dawn/dusk); create barriers with copper tape or diatomaceous earth; encourage predators like ground beetles
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Remove infected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if necessary
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Improve drainage with compost or perlite; avoid overwatering; divide and replant in fresh soil if affected
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and
Plant deer-resistant varieties; use fencing (8 feet tall for deer); apply repellent sprays; grow unpalatable plants like hellebores or foxgloves
Uses
Culinary herbs
CulinaryMany perennial herbs like sage, oregano, thyme, chives, and mint provide fresh flavoring for cooking throughout the growing season and can be dried for winter use. [source]
Herbal remedies and teas
MedicinalPerennial herbs such as echinacea, calendula, lemon balm, and valerian have been used traditionally for immune support, skin health, relaxation, and digestive comfort. [source]
Cut flowers and arrangements
HouseholdMany perennials like peonies, roses, coneflowers, and lisianthus provide long-lasting, beautiful cut flowers for bouquets and floral design. [source]
Dried flowers and crafts
CraftPerennials like statice (limonium), celosia, and yarrow dry beautifully and are perfect for dried arrangements, wreaths, and botanical crafts. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeNative perennials attract and sustain bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems and improving garden biodiversity. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Perennials are grown primarily for flowers and foliage rather than harvest. Cut flowers in early morning when stems are turgid, using sharp scissors. For dried flowers, cut at full bloom and hang upside down in a warm, dry location. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowering. Some perennial herbs (sage, oregano, thyme) can be harvested for culinary use by pinching or cutting stems; harvest in morning after dew dries.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Some perennials, like peonies, can live and bloom for over 50 years in the same location, with the oldest known specimens exceeding 100 years.
- 🌱 Many perennials follow a 'first-year foliage, second-year flowers' rule, meaning gardeners should be patient—spectacular blooms come in year two and beyond.
- 🌱 Native perennials adapted to local climates and soils require significantly less water, fertilizer, and pest management than non-native varieties, making them both sustainable and easier to grow.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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