It’s finally that time of year again! I’m hoping for an early spring as well ;) Decided to start some seeds today. Specifically perennial flowers. As I am trying to create diversity and sustainability on my small property. Flowers have many different functions in the garden, a few being attracting beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, habitat for beneficial predators and medicinal uses. Being perennial in my area also means I won’t have to replant each season.
The varieties I chose:
Lavender (Dwarf Munstead)
I’ve had success starting these indoors and transplanting outdoors. Actually there are several plants still going after 2 years. Very long germination 20-50 days and can benefit from stratification. Lovely aroma that tickles the nose when you walk by.
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower)
One of my favorites. After a year or two these will grow to 2-3 feet with plenty of blooms that make for great cut flowers. Make sure of where you plant them as they tend to take up a lot of space when in bloom.
Rudbeckia (Goldstrum)
Nice thin stalks with hordes of bright yellow flowers. Tend to make you smile when you look at them. Just like sunflowers :) Haven’t had the best success with germination indoors. Could be old seed or temperature.
Cerastium (Snow in Summer)
First saw these when I visited a local botanical garden. You could see and hear the bee activity. I have not planted these in the garden yet.
Looking forward to seeing these pop up in a couple weeks and I will post an update. Do you have any experience with perennials? What are your favorites?
Thanks for stopping by!