Planting in the spring is very dependent on weather conditions, which vary from season to season. Perennials are normally available for purchase from garden centers and nurseries beginning in March. Some perennials are quite able to withstand the cooler temperatures of early spring, while others are best planted later in the season. When purchasing plants it is best to determine if the plants have been in greenhouse conditions or have been in outdoor conditions. Those that have been in the outdoor conditions are safe to plant upon purchase. Plants that have been in a greenhouse need to be “hardened off”, or conditioned gradually to the outdoor climate before they are planted. It is also important that plants are well watered before they are removed from their containers and planted. If weather conditions become severe after you have planted, be prepared to protect the plants with a frost cover or a light mulch. Perennials can be planted throughout the growing season. During periods of exteme heat, extra care should be given to watering and providing temporary shade while the plants are establishing.
For more information, please see the PlantTalk script "Perennials: how & when to plant."
