For More Color, Plant A Diverse Selection

When we ask our customers what they want out of their landscapes, the answer is usually “More color.” People want landscapes that are filled with flowers and interesting foliage, with emphasis on the flowers. Some of these homeowners want mostly shrubs or perennials, but in the quest for more color they are best off planting a diverse selection of plants. To have more flowers, plant bulbs, annuals, shrubs, trees, and perennials!

Fall is the time to plant shrubs, perennials and bulbs, so think about the time of year when you need more flowers and plan accordingly. Need more spring color? Put in some spring-flowering shrubs such as azaleas, heath, lilacs and RJM Rhododendrons. Stick some daffodils, crocus and tulips in between your existing perennials or shrubs. Need more fall color? Add late-flowering mums, Nippon daisies, or one of the trees that flowers in the fall such as Franklinia or sourwood. Aim to have at least half of your plants be native to the area, so that you’re not only surrounded by color but are supporting the local birds and other wildlife.

Plan to put in some annuals every year as well. Combining annuals with shrubs and perennials is a “no-brainer” when it comes to flower power! Annuals are easy to grow: plant them in late May or early June with some time-release or slow-release fertilizer and sit back to enjoy the show.

A yard filled with flowers and foliage color? You can grow that!