Perennial Plants: A Lasting Addition to Your Garden 🌸

socialharvest
Jul 21
2 min read

Updated: Jul 23

When it comes to building a vibrant, sustainable garden, perennial plants are a gardener’s best friend. But what exactly are they, and why are they such a great choice for your green space? Let’s dig in.

What Are Perennials?

In horticulture, the term perennial comes from Latin roots meaning “through the year.” These are plants often small flowering ones that bloom during the spring and summer, die back in the fall and winter, and return each spring from their roots or base structure. Herbaceous perennials, in particular, are known for this annual cycle of dormancy and regrowth.

Photo: Jasmine Slatch, Social Harvest 2025

When’s the Best Time to Plant Them?

Perennials thrive when planted in the spring (March to early May) or autumn (late September to October) the times of year when the soil is moist and temperatures are moderate, giving plants the best start.

Why Choose Perennials?

Perennials are the ultimate low-maintenance beauties. Unlike annuals, which need to be replanted each year, perennials come back season after season bringing lasting color and life to your garden with minimal effort.

Key Benefits:

• 🌱 Long-term impact: No need to replant every year.

• 🐝 Pollinator-friendly: They attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

• 🌍 Eco-smart: They help improve soil health.

• 💰 Cost-effective: Save time and money over the long run.

Favorite Perennials to Try

One of the best things about perennials is the variety. Here are a couple of beautiful, functional favorites:

• Echinacea (coneflower): A stunning addition to any garden that also attracts bees and butterflies.

• Hostas: Ideal for shady areas, adding texture and lush greenery all year long.

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Quick Care Tips

To keep your perennials thriving:

• Use well-drained soil.

• Water regularly but don’t over do it.

• At the end of each growing season, cut back dead growth to keep your plants healthy and strong for the next cycle.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, perennials offer beauty, resilience, and environmental benefits that make them a smart choice for any garden.

Happy planting! 🌿

Contributors: Carlos Ilunga and Jasmine Slatch, July 22, 2025.