Perennials to Plant in Fall for Spring Color

Summer has flown and autumn is just around the corner. This time of year we're so busy sharpening tools, spreading mulch and putting the garden to bed that we may forget that fall is the perfect time for planting colorful, spring-blooming perennials.

Fall-planted perennials develop roots until the ground freezes solid, preparing to burst forth with vigorous growth when temperatures rise in spring. ShopMonrovia has the largest selections of perennials for spring color. Order online and they'll ship to a participating garden center within weeks and shipping is always free. Monrovia has been growing beautiful, healthy plants for over 90 years. Their plant selections are of the highest quality so that you can create outdoor spaces that thrive for years. It's such a great investment in your garden; plant now, enjoy later!

Tips on Planting Perennials in Fall Don't wait too long. Plant perennials at least six weeks before the first frost of the season. Dig 3 or 4 inches (7-10 cm.) of compost or rotted manure into the ground before planting. Work the soil thoroughly, at least to the depth of your shovel. Hold off feeding newly planted perennials until spring. Fertilizing now promotes tender new growth, which is susceptible to frost damage when temperatures drop. Water regularly until the ground freezes, but not to the point of sogginess. Newly planted perennials need moisture to develop a healthy root system. Spread a couple inches of mulch around the plants to protect the roots from repeated freezing and thawing during the coming winter.

Great Perennials to Plant in Fall While there are a number of plants you could choose for the garden now, if you're looking for that pop of spring color, here are some great perennials to consider that you can plant this fall and enjoy in spring.

• Iris - A definite spring favorite, iris plants come in many varieties, with different heights and colors. Zones 3-10
• Bleeding heart - Bleeding heart is an old-fashioned beauty that produces graceful, arching stems and heart-shaped, pink or white blooms. Zones 4-8
• Alstroemeria - Alstroemeria are striking late spring bloomers available in a multitude of colors. Zones 7-11
• Salvia - Looking for pollinators and color? The blooms of most salvia plants are long lasting and attract butterflies. Zones 4-9
• Agapanthus - This herbaceous perennial is hardy in USDA Zones 7-11. A South African native beauty, the flowering agapanthus displays large masses of striking blue or white flowers atop a tall and slender stalk.
• Peony - Fall is definitely the best time to plant peonies for big, showy springtime blooms. Zones 2-8
• Hellebore - Available in a virtual rainbow of colors, hellebore is one of the earliest flowers, often popping through late winter snow. Zones 6-9

Fall is the perfect time for planting. ShopMonrovia now for that spring garden you've been yearning for. You're certain to find exactly what you need.