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March is an ideal month to start planting perennials that will bring vibrant color to your garden throughout the year. Choosing the right plants can ensure a stunning display from spring through winter, with minimal effort needed once established.
Why Plant Perennials in March?
Planting perennials in March takes advantage of the early spring weather, allowing roots to establish before the heat of summer or the cold of winter. Properly chosen perennials can bloom multiple times, providing continuous color and interest in your garden.
Top Perennials for Year-round Color
1. Hellebores (Lenten Rose)
Hellebores bloom in late winter to early spring, often while snow is still on the ground. Their evergreen leaves provide year-round foliage, and their early blooms add color when most plants are still dormant.
2. Coneflower (Echinacea)
With their daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white, coneflowers bloom from summer into fall. They attract pollinators and are drought-tolerant, making them a low-maintenance option.
3. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
Black-eyed Susans produce bright yellow flowers from summer to fall. Their hardy nature and long blooming period make them a staple for continuous garden color.
4. Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender blooms from late spring to early summer, with aromatic foliage that remains attractive year-round. It also attracts bees and butterflies, supporting local pollinators.
Planting Tips for March
When planting perennials in March, ensure the soil is workable and not frozen. Amend heavy soils with compost to improve drainage. Space plants according to their mature size and water them well after planting to help establish roots.
Maintenance Tips for Perennials
To keep your perennials healthy and vibrant:
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
- Divide overgrown clumps every few years to maintain vigor.
- Prune back after flowering to promote healthy growth.
Conclusion
Planting the right perennials in March can set the foundation for a colorful and low-maintenance garden year-round. By selecting plants like hellebores, coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and lavender, you’ll enjoy a vibrant landscape through every season with minimal effort.