Perennials that work hard in winter
While many perennials go dormant in winter, a few continue to earn their keep with evergreen foliage or cold-season flowers. Helleborus orientalis (Lenten rose) Flowering from late winter into early spring, it brings colour to shady borders when little else is in bloom. Its leathery leaves also provide year-round structure. Bergenia (Elephant’s ears) A reliable evergreen. Its bold leaves take on rich red and bronze tones in cold weather, and its early spring flowers are a welcome sight. Miscanthus Though it dies back in late winter, its tall, feathery plumes and upright stems persist through frost and snow, adding movement and structure to the garden. Leave seedheads standing for a striking silhouette in low winter light. Sedum ( Hylotelephium ) Its dried flowerheads provide structure and food for birds, while its fleshy foliage adds texture through autumn. Iris unguicularis Produces fragrant, purple flowers in late winter, often blooming in February. The evergreen, grass-like foliage also adds structure year-round Tips for planting perennials in autumn Prepare the soil: Clear weeds, dig in compost and ensure good drainage – especially important in heavy soils. Water well: Even in cooler weather, new plants need regular watering until they’re established. Mulch after planting: A layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture and protect roots from frost. Label your plants: Many perennials die back completely in winter, so it’s easy to forget what’s where. If you’re dividing existing perennials, autumn is also a great time to do it. Lift and split clumps of plants like daylilies, hardy geraniums and hostas to rejuvenate them and create more plants for free.
Design tips
Perennials are the backbone of a well-designed border. Use them to create layers of interest, combining different heights, textures and bloom times. Front of border: Low- growing evergreens like heucheras or tiarellas provide colour and ground cover. Mid-border: Plants like echinaceas, rudbeckias and
salvias offer long-lasting flowers and strong form. Back of border: Taller perennials such as
monkshood, veronicastums and Joe Pye weed add drama and height. Mix in a few evergreen or winter- flowering varieties to keep the display going when herbaceous plants die back.
Shop the look: Perennial plant offers From evergreen ground cover to winter- flowering favourites, you’ll find everything you need to build a garden that lasts.
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