Perennial Garden Maintenance – Editing

Every perennial has its own personality and requires different care. Some, such as peonies, can be left undisturbed for years (except, of course, for pulling weeds) and others need frequent editing or dividing. Although most people enjoy the fact that their perennials spread, and initially appreciate that the plant is filling in, there comes a point when a controlling hand is needed. Not only will some plants overwhelm their neighbors, many are out-and-out thugs that will take over a garden and move on into the walkways. It’s up to the perennial gardener to take command.

Any plant that more than doubles its size every year will probably need to be edited down every other year. All Lysimachia species qualify (circle flower, gooseneck loosestrife, and creeping Jenny) as does the obedient plant, many threadleaf Coreopsis, and black-eyed Susans. For such enthusiastic spreaders it’s wise not to replant all the pieces you pull out since every one of those will need the same editing in a couple of years. Be it known that it’s perfectly acceptable, and usually desirable, to toss the excess in the compost pile.

So if your perennial garden is looking out of balance, take control!