What perennials bloom longest through the season?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Gardeners particularly enjoy long-blooming perennials that provide a continuous display of color from spring to fall. These dependable bloomers reduce the need for seasonal replanting and produce months of vibrant flowers. I have designed gardens influenced by these workhorses that maintained color for six months without any replanting whatsoever.
Planting for Success
- Choose sunny locations with 6+ hours direct light
- Amend soil with compost for improved drainage
- Space plants for air circulation to prevent disease
Seasonal Maintenance
- Deadhead spent flowers weekly to stimulate new buds
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season
- Water deeply during drought to prevent bloom interruption
Blanket flowers produce impressions of fireworks with bright, intense flowers that last an incredible 5 months. Drought-tolerant, these perennial flowers are perfect for sunny borders. I utilize blanket flowers in xeriscape designs for their continuous blooms with little maintenance. Blanket flowers can withstand poor soil conditions.
Coreopsis varieties produce lovely daisy flowers for at least three months. Moonbeam coreopsis sparkles reliably in the garden with pale yellow flowers. Deadheading continues their display deep into autumn. My clients love how they partner with purple salvias and veronicas.
Russian sage offers light purple blossoms from mid-summer until frost. The fragrant, silvery foliage is of interest throughout the season. This drought-tolerant plant grows up to four feet tall. I use it in the back of shorter bloomers to add depth to the border.
Combine a range of long-bloomers for continuous color. There is also an opportunity to incorporate early spring bloomers, such as catmint, with late autumn bloomers, like asters. Doing so fosters floral interest from May to October. I have layered bloom times in my mixed borders to maximize visual impact.
During periods of extreme summer heat, provide consistent moisture. While there are some drought-tolerant varieties, sufficient water prevents gaps in bloom time. When the temperature is above 85°F, water deeply twice a week, Mulch will also help retain moisture in the soil, keeping the blooms of your flower garden blooming and in continuous flower.
Read the full article: When to Plant Perennials: Expert Guide
