Many people wait until spring to plant perennials. Yet late September is actually an excellent time to add new plants to your garden. The soil is still warm from summer, while temperatures are starting to drop. These are ideal conditions for new plants.
Less heat, more time to establish
A newly planted perennial often has to deal with strong sunlight and evaporation during spring or summer. At this time of year, things are different. Cooler temperatures mean the plant loses less water and has time to settle into its new spot.
A lot is happening below the ground, too. The roots can continue to develop, giving the plant a strong foundation before spring arrives. Once temperatures start to rise again, it can get a quicker start to the new growing season.
You plant now, but you’re already giving your garden a head start for next year.
Which perennials can you plant now?
There is plenty of choice. For example, choose Geranium ‘Rozanne’ for a long flowering season, Echinacea purpurea ‘Happy Star’ for its large white flowers, or Veronicastrum ‘Kleine Erica’ to add height and structure to your borders.
Eupatorium coelestinum and Anthericum ramosum are also great choices for adding more variety to the garden.
Plant now, enjoy later
Perennials return year after year and often become fuller and more impressive over time. By planting them now, you give them plenty of time to settle in before spring arrives.
So there is no need to automatically wait until spring. By planting now, you’re already laying the foundation for a beautiful and fuller garden next season.