Thank you for choosing Dutch Gardens! Our perennials, bulbs, and

Transcription

1 Clearance 1/2 Price Sale! See Pages Fall Planting Guide Thank you for choosing Dutch Gardens! Our perennials, bulbs, and shrubs have been closely inspected and carefully handled to ensure they arrive in top condition. These planting and care instructions will help you get the most from your plants. If you have any questions, please call us at Dutch Gardens Guarantee: Your purchase price will be refunded on orders returned within 14 days. If, for any reason, your merchandise does not live, notify us within one (1) year of receipt and we will replace the product free of charge. Please note that Dutch Gardens plants and bulbs are not intended for consumption, unless described otherwise. Some bulbs and plants are toxic to humans or pets if eaten. Contents Care Upon Arrival... 2 About Our Plants... 2 Soil Preparation... 2 Planting in the Garden... 3 Bulb Chart... 4 Landscaping with Bulbs... 4 Hardiness Zones... 6 Tips for Warmer Climates... 6 Bulb-Forcing Instructions... 7 Routine Care... 8 Guide to Care Symbols Bulb Bed Planting Trays Plant-Specific Instructions Index of Plants... 27

2 Care Upon Arrival For best results, plant within a few days of delivery. We plan shipments so that your perennials, bulbs, and shrubs arrive during the appropriate planting time for your area. The sooner you plant them, the sooner they will begin to grow and establish themselves in your garden. If you are experiencing unseasonably cold or hot weather and need to delay planting for a few days, please open the shipping box to provide adequate ventilation and store the box in a cool, shady place until planting time. Keep from freezing. Maintain even soil moisture in the potted plants. Leave bareroot plants and bulbs in the packaging. Mist or sprinkle the bareroots to keep them moist. Do not store bulbs near ripening fruit. They give off ethylene gas, which can harm the embryonic flower inside your bulbs. If you plan to force some of your bulbs for indoor bloom, please refer to our Forcing Instructions on page 7. If you live in Zones 8, 9, or 10, please read Tips for Warmer Climates on page 6. See our web site at and click on How-To for more information. About Our Plants In the fall season, we offer bulbs, potted and bareroot perennials, and shrubs. In this guide, we use the term bulb to refer to all bulblike structures. Technically, we offer true bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers. We ship some of our perennials as semi-dormant or dormant bareroot divisions. Upon arrival, bareroot plants may appear lifeless, but they will begin growing soon after they are planted and watered. Most of our perennials and shrubs are grown and shipped in 4-inch pots. In the fall, many of these plants are preparing for winter dormancy and the foliage may have already begun to die back. Be assured that their strong root systems will produce healthy, vigorous plants next spring. After transplanting, bareroot and potted perennials typically take at least three years to reach their mature size and flowering potential. Soil Preparation Perennials, roses, shrubs, and hardy bulbs are generally long-lived and can remain in the same location for many years. We recommend improving the soil in and around the planting area to ensure years of beautiful, productive plants. Bulbs, in particular, require well-drained soil. Plant them in a raised bed or mound if the site is soggy, especially 2

3 in winter. Before planting, spread 3 4" of compost over the planting area and mix it thoroughly into the top 12" of soil. If desired, add a granular, slow-release fertilizer to the soil, following package instructions. Adding organic matter and natural fertilizer improves fertility, drainage and overall soil health. Planting in the Garden Our perennials, bulbs, and shrubs are shipped as either potted or bareroot plants. Each type is planted somewhat differently. Please use this information as a guide and refer to the individual plant instructions here and on the plant stake or label for the correct planting depth and spacing. Bulbs are usually planted at a depth that s about three times the size of the bulb. For example, plant a 1"-high gladiolus bulb about 3" deep. Most bulbs have a tapered end that should be planted pointing up. Some have a flatter side that may show evidence of roots and should face down. If you aren t sure which end goes up, plant the bulb Crown Soil level sideways. See the chart on page 4 for additional information. Bareroot perennials should be planted with their crowns the place where the roots and shoots meet at the soil surface. To get them off to the best start, soak the roots in cool to tepid water for 30 minutes before planting. Spread the roots over a mound of soil in the hole as shown below. Potted perennials and shrubs should be planted at the same depth as they are growing in the pot, with the top of their rootballs at the soil surface. Water thoroughly before planting. Loosen and spread the roots gently. Water all bulbs, perennials, and shrubs thoroughly after planting. Follow up with weekly waterings throughout the plant s first year if rainfall is insufficient to maintain soil moisture. 3

4 Please use the following chart to calculate how many bulbs to plant per square foot. Refer to the instructions in this guide and on each plant label for specific planting depth and spacing guidelines. Type of Bulb Bulbs/Sq. Ft. Number of Allium Globemaster/Gladiator Allium Purple Sensation Alliums, small bulbs Crocus and other small bulbs Daffodils Fritillaria imperialis (Crown Imperial) Hyacinths Tulips Landscaping with Bulbs Spring-flowering bulbs are beautiful almost anywhere in your garden. Use them to accent formal beds, borders, rock gardens, woodlands, containers and lawns. By selecting varieties with different flowering times, you can have flowers blooming throughout your landscape beginning in very early spring and continuing into the early summer. For the most dramatic color and impact, plant bulbs in groups or 4

5 drifts. The more bulbs you plant in the drift, the greater the impact. Many of our bulbs are also good for naturalizing, a planting technique that results in a natural, informal appearance. Bulbs that multiply readily such as daffodils and crocus are especially good for naturalizing. To achieve a natural effect, scatter the bulbs gently over your site and simply dig them in where they fall. When selecting a site for naturalizing, choose a spot that does not require mowing in the early spring. Once flowers fade, it s important to let the foliage continue growing. The foliage feeds the bulb and then dies back naturally in approximately six weeks. Removing the foliage prematurely may decrease the bulb size and flowering in subsequent years. Here are some ways to use bulbs in your landscape: Naturalizing: Crocus Galanthus (Early Snowdrops) Narcissus (Daffodils) Winter Aconite (Eranthis) Muscari (Grape Hyacinth) Star of Holland (Scilla siberica) Mixed Beds and Borders: Allium Camassia Narcissus (Daffodil) Dutch Iris German Iris Galanthus nivalis (Early Snowdrops) Gladiolus nanus (Hardy Gladiolus) Lilium (Lilies) Scilla siberica (Star of Holland) Dramatic Drifts: Narcissus (Daffodils) Muscari (Grape Hyacinth) Tulipa (Tulips) Hyacinth Scilla siberica (Star of Holland) Puschkinia (Early Stardrift) Anemone blanda (Grecian Windflower) Woodland Gardens: Anemone blanda (Grecian Windflower) Arum italicum Corydalis solida Crocus Cyclamen cilicium (Hardy Cyclamen) Dracunculus vulgaris Erythronium Pagoda (Dog Tooth Violet) Rock Gardens: Galanthus (Early Snowdrops) Dwarf Iris Dwarf Narcissus (Daffodils) Leucojum (Summer Snowflake) Muscari (Grape Hyacinth) Puschkinia (Early Stardrift) Scilla siberica (Star of Holland) Tulipa (Tulips) 5

6 Hardiness Zones and Microclimates To help gardeners determine which plants can be grown successfully in their climate, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) have identified eleven North American hardiness zones based on average minimum winter temperatures. All trees, shrubs, vines, perennials and bulbs are given a hardiness range. If a plant s hardiness range is 6 to 9, it will survive average winter temperatures in Zones 6, 7, 8 and 9. Variations in soil, wind, altitude and snow cover can create warm and cool pockets, called microclimates, within growing zones. For this reason, use the hardiness range as a guideline to help you gauge the potential for a plant s success in your zone. Depending on the microclimate, some plants will thrive and some will struggle outside of their normal hardiness range. The hardiness zones listed in this guide are for plants growing in the ground. Plants growing in aboveground containers are more susceptible to root damage from very cold temperatures and winter wind than those growing in your garden. For this reason, plants that are normally hardy in your zone may not survive the winter in a container. To protect container-grown shrubs and perennials, place them in a sheltered area, such as a heated garage, where temperatures do not dip below freezing. Another alternative is to bury the crack-resistant container in the garden and mulch with at least 6" of straw, leaves, or other material. If you re unsure of your hardiness zone, please go to our web site at and use our Zone Finder or call us at Tips for Warmer Climates Dutch bulbs thrive in areas with cold winters, rainy springs and cool summers. But with just a little attention, they will grow almost anywhere. If you live in an area of the country where winters are mild and frosts are rare (Zones 8-11), you must provide an artificial winter for many spring-flowering bulbs prior to planting: specifically, most tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, alliums and muscari. To grow properly and flower, these bulbs require a chilling period of at least eight consecutive weeks of temperatures between 35 and 45 F. This takes a little extra work and planning, but it is well worth the effort to enjoy a beautiful spring display of flowering bulbs. For best results, begin the chilling period (or artificial winter) as soon as you receive your bulbs. Store the bulbs in the refrigerator in a vented bag. To prevent damage to the developing flowers inside the bulbs, do 6

7 not store any fruit in the refrigerator during this time unless it s in an air-tight container. After the eight-week cooling period, take the bulbs directly from the refrigerator to your planting spot. An ideal site will have morning sun and afternoon shade. Avoid hot, dry locations. After planting, apply a 2-inch-thick layer of mulch to keep the bulbs cool and help retain moisture. Please note that bulbs grown this way should be treated as annuals; they cannot be saved easily for another year. For more tips on growing bulbs in warm climates, please refer to the articles about bulb growing at Simply click on How-To at the top of any page, then select the topic of your choice. Bulb-Forcing Instructions With proper care, most bulbs can be brought into bloom earlier than their normal bloom time. The most common bulbs for indoor forcing are Amaryllis and paperwhites. Please see the Plant-Specific Instructions for information on forcing these bulbs. Other spring-flowering bulbs, such as tulips, hyacinths, crocuses, daffodils and muscari, can also be forced to bloom indoors, but they must go through a chilling period. The process is simple and very rewarding. 1. Choose a shallow planting container with a drainage hole. Terra cotta and plastic pots work equally well. 7

8 2. Select a growing medium with good drainage. It should contain some peat, perlite and/or vermiculite. If the soil doesn t drain well, the bulbs may rot before they have a chance to bloom. Fill your container two-thirds full with growing medium. 3. Plant the bulbs with the tip pointing up and level with the top of your pot. Use as many bulbs as will fit in your container, placing them close together, but without touching one another or the sides of the pot. Add the soil around the bulbs, leaving the tip of the bulbs exposed. Water the bulbs thoroughly and label each pot with the variety of the bulb and the date planted. Cover the pots with a ventilated plastic bag or a light cloth to retain moisture while in storage. 4. Store most potted bulbs for 12 to 15 weeks, and tulips for 14 to 16 weeks, at temperatures between 32 and 45 F. You can store your pots in an unheated outbuilding or in a refrigerator, as long as temperatures remain between 32 and 45 F and the bulbs are not stored with fruit. If you need more storage space and your outdoor temperatures will fall below 45 F for at least three months, you can place the pots in a 6 12" deep trench in your garden and cover the pots with straw, followed by the removed garden soil. If necessary, protect your potted bulbs from digging rodents by covering the pots with wire hardware cloth before burying them in the ground or storing in the garage. 5. When the chilling period is complete, bring the pots into a cool room (60 to 65 F) and place them in bright, indirect sunlight. As shoots appear, place the pots in a warmer location with more sunlight. You can expect blooms in 3 to 4 weeks. Maintain even soil moisture while waiting for your bulbs to flower. 6. Once the bulbs are in full flower, enjoy! Expect the blossoms to last 7 to 10 days. To ensure the longest lasting blooms, keep the pot well watered, out of direct sunlight and away from extreme heat (the cooler the air temperature the better.) If the bulbs are hardy in your zone, you may plant them in your garden once they have finished blooming. It may be two years until they bloom again. Routine Care Taking good care of your plants will help them get established more quickly and ensure they thrive for years to come. Mulch. Apply a 2"-thick layer of mulch over your garden beds to help retain moisture, maintain even soil temperatures, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch 1 2" away from trunks and stems to prevent insect, rodent, and disease injury. 8

9 Water. Most plants need consistently moist soil during their first season in your garden. Check the soil moisture at root depth and water as needed to maintain even soil moisture. Fertilize. To get your new plants and bulbs off to the best start, mix a slow-release, plant fertilizer such as Dutch Gardens Performance Plus or SeaGreen Natural Soil Booster into the planting hole. For vigorous growth and flowering, apply an organic liquid fertilizer every 2 3 weeks during the growing season. Stop fertilizing 6 8 weeks before the first expected autumn frost date to allow plants to prepare for dormancy. Care after Flowering. As your flowers fade, remove the spent blooms, but allow the leaves to continue to grow. The foliage gathers energy from the sun, which the plant will use to form next year s flowers. Once the leaves have turned yellow and dried, you may cut them back. Rodent and Deer Control. The best defense is to choose bulbs that are not particularly attractive to these critters. In general, daffodils, alliums, and fritillaria are unappealing to rodents. Please see our catalog or use the Plant Finder at for specific recommendations on deerresistant bulbs. Crown Imperial (Fritillaria imperialis) bulbs emit an odor that deters rodents. We recommend interplanting these bulbs in areas where you have noticed rodent damage in the past. For further defense against deer and rabbits, choose repellent products containing red pepper, garlic, putrefied eggs and other strong scents. To deter digging pests, such as squirrels and voles, use products containing crushed oyster shells or plant bulbs inside a wire mesh bulb cage. Divide Perennials. Vigorous perennials require division every 3 5 years. It s time to divide when your plants appear too crowded or flower production or plant vigor decreases. Early spring and fall are best times. Dig up the clump, retaining as many roots as possible, and divide the plant by gently pulling or cutting clumps away from the main plant. Fall Cleanup for Perennials. The stems of most herbaceous perennials die back in autumn. You may cut the shoots down to the ground and remove or let the stems remain throughout the winter to help catch snow a natural insulator. Remove the dead stems before new growth begins in the spring. Pruning Shrubs and Trees. Newly planted shrubs and trees usually do not need pruning in their first year. In subsequent years, prune off any branches that rub against one another or grow toward the center of the plant. Plants can also be pruned to maintain shape and avoid overcrowding. Use sharp pruning shears and make the cut to an outward pointing bud or to within 1 8" of the base of the twig. See specific plant descriptions for more information. 9

10 Guide to Care Symbols Light Requirements Full sun equals at least 6 hours per day of direct exposure. Part sun /part shade equals 4 6 hours of morning sun or dappled light. Plants need shelter from sun exposure at midday and in the afternoon, especially in hot climates. Shade means less than 4 hours of direct morning light or no direct sun exposure. Soil Moisture Moist soil means that the plant prefers constantly moist soil and may be suitable for planting near ponds or in seasonally wet soil. Regular or well-drained soil doesn t remain soggy after watering, but holds enough moisture to support healthy plant growth. It contains organic matter and has a loose, crumbly texture. Plants with this symbol require good drainage. Droughty soil dries quickly after watering. It also occurs in areas with infrequent rainfall. Plants with this symbol are drought tolerant after their roots become well established. Deer Resistance Deer find some plants distasteful and are less likely to eat them. Although hungry deer will eat almost any plant, the ones with this symbol are more resistant to deer damage. Cut Flowers Plants with this symbol make good cut flowers for bouquets. Butterfly-Attracting Plants The flowers of these plants attract butterflies and other nectar feeders. 10

11 Bulb Bed Planting Trays All of our Bulb Bed planting trays can be planted in containers or directly in the ground. Whichever method you choose, plant the Bulb Beds as soon as possible after you receive them. The bulbs need to develop roots in the autumn in preparation for spring bloom. Planting in a container: 1. Choose a container that is 1 2" wider than the Bulb Bed planting tray. It should be at least 8" deep and have a drainage hole. 2. Use a high quality peat and perlite potting soil that will hold moisture and drain well. If the bag of soil mix is dry, add water and blend thoroughly before using. Do not use garden soil as it may not drain properly. 3. Fill the pot with enough moistened potting soil so that the top of the planting tray will be about 4" below the rim of the pot. 4. Set the planting tray into the pot and cover with about 2 to 3 inches of potting soil. Water sparingly. 5. Store the container where temperatures will remain between 32 and 45 F for at least 12 to 15 weeks. Longer is better, especially for tulips. Do not allow the container to freeze. 6. In the spring or when the chilling time is complete, place the container in a cool, sunny place. Water as needed to keep the soil moist but not saturated. Planting in the ground: 1. Dig a hole in well-drained soil that is 1 2" wider than the Bulb Bed planting tray and 4 5" deep. 2. Set the planting tray in the hole and cover with soil. Water sparingly to settle the soil. 11

12 Plant-Specific Instructions Achillea, Yarrow Spacing: 18 Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: summer Hardy: Zones 4-8 Yarrow grows best in soils with good drainage. Shear back plants in mid-summer to remove spent blooms and promote more blooming. Agastache Spacing: 24 Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: mid-summer to early fall Hardy: Zones 6-10 Agastache is drought-tolerant after roots become well established. Plant in well-drained soil. Allium species Spacing: 3-4 Planting depth: 3 times bulb diameter Height: Blooms: spring to early summer Hardy: Zones 3-8 Alliums have onion-scented bulbs and foliage that repel rodents and deer. Some have foliage that dies back to the ground after the plant blooms, making them good companions for ground-covering perennials. Plant in well-drained soil. Please see catalog or website for specific details. Amaryllis Spacing: 4-6 Planting depth: top 1/3 of bulb exposed Height: Hardy: Zones 9-10, Zone 8 with protection Plant Amaryllis bulbs individually in heavy 6 8 pots or group 4 apart in a larger pot. Avoid lightweight pots, which may tip over when the plants bloom. Plant pointed end up, in loose, rich, potting soil with approximately one-third of the bulb above the soil line. Place the pot in a sunny location and water sparingly until you see about 2" of new leaf or flower stalk growth. Either the foliage or flower stalk may appear first either is normal. After growth begins, water regularly to keep the soil moist. As the plant grows, turn the pot periodically to encourage the stalk to grow straight up. Within 3 10 weeks, depending on the bulb and variety, you ll see 2 to 3 flower stems 12

13 with 3 to 4 flowers per stem. To prolong the blooms, keep the pot out of direct sunlight. To encourage bulbs to blossom again the following year, cut off the faded flowers, but leave the stalk until it withers. Continue to water and feed regularly with a liquid houseplant fertilizer and allow the leaves to grow. In mid-august, begin withholding water and let the foliage die back naturally as the pot dries out completely. Leave the dormant bulb in the pot and store in a dark and dry place at for a minimum of 8 weeks. About 5 to 10 weeks before you want the Amaryllis to flower again, resume watering. By following these basic care guidelines, your Amaryllis may flower year after year. Repot only when they become overcrowded. Amaryllis can be grown as outdoor landscape plants in Zones 9, 10, and protected parts of Zone 8 where freezing temperatures do not regularly occur. Plant the bulbs in a sunny to partly shady, well-drained spot with the top of the bulb 2 3" below the soil surface. Protect from freezing. Amelanchier grandiflora, Autumn Brilliance Juneberry Spacing: Planting depth: top of root ball level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early spring Hardy: Zones 4-9 This native tree is attractive in all seasons: white flowers, dark berries, crimson fall foliage, silvery bark, and graceful branching. Plant in any well-drained soil. Prune in mid-summer, if needed. Aquilegia, Columbine Spacing: 12 Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: late spring to early summer Hardy: Zones 3-9 Columbine is a native plant that prefers some shade and moist soil in warm areas Arum Spacing: 5-6 Planting Depth: 2-3 Height: Blooms: early summer Hardy: Zones 5-9 Grows very well in moist partially shaded areas where it will provide interest spring through fall. In warmer areas, Arum appreciates more shade. 13

14 Aster Species Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: late summer to fall Hardy: Zones 3-8 Plant Asters in well-drained soil. Divide every 3 to 4 years to maintain vigor. Astilbe Species Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: Early to late summer Hardy: Zones 3 8 Astilbes grow best in moist, fertile soils. Cut flower spikes to the ground after bloom or leave in the garden for fall and winter interest. Athyrium niponicum Painted Fern Spacing: 12 Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Hardy: Zones 3-8 Use as groundcover in shady, fertile, well-drained, evenly moist soil. Baptisia, False Indigo Spacing: 3 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: 3-6 Blooms: early summer Hardy: Zones 5-8 Long lived early blooming perennial that has deep roots which make drought resistant. Basically pest free. Camassia leichtlinii Spacing: 5 Planting depth: 6 Height: Blooms: early summer Hardy: Zones 3-9 Native to the Pacific Northwest, Camassia thrives in moist, rich soil. For the best effect, plant in drifts of 10 bulbs or more. Foliage dies back and goes dormant by mid-summer. 14

15 Caryopteris Spacing: 36 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: 36 Blooms: late summer to early fall Hardy: Zones 5-9 Prune stems back to new growth in the spring to promote a bushy habit. Prefers well drained soils and a bit of protection in areas with frigid winter temperatures. Centaurea Spacing: 20 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early summer Hardy: Zones 3-9 Grows best in well drained soils. Shear off spent blooms to promote more flowering. Chionodoxa forbesii, Glory of the Snow Spacing: 3-4 Planting depth: 2 Height: 4-8 Blooms: very early spring Hardy: Zones 3-8 The bulbs multiply rapidly to create a blanket of color along a pathway, in your lawn or under trees. Plant in well-drained soil. Coreopsis Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: mid-summer to fall Hardy: Zones 5-9 Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage nonstop bloom. Plant in well-drained soil. They can tolerate some drought after their roots become well established. Crocus Spacing: 2-3 Planting depth: 3 Height: 3-4 Blooms: early spring Hardy: Zones 3-9 Naturalize the bulbs in mixed gardens, lawns, or wooded areas. Plant in well-drained soil in groups of 20 or more for a big impact, or tuck a handful of bulbs among other early bloomers. 15

16 Cyclamen cilicium, Hardy Cyclamen Spacing: 12 Planting depth: 1-2 Height: 4-6 Blooms: late summer to fall Hardy: Zones 5-9 Foliage goes dormant in the early summer, then emerges again in late summer when the rosy pink flowers bloom. Plant the flatter, dimpled side up and the smooth, rounded side down. They grow best in very well-drained soil and can tolerate dry periods, but prefer moist soil. Apply a 2 -thick layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture. Please note: Cyclamen foliage may not appear until late summer or early fall. This is normal. Delphinium belladonna Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early summer Hardy: Zones 3-7 Protect stems from strong wind or use supports. Cut spent flower stalks down to the top of the foliage to encourage repeat flowering. Delphiniums do not thrive in climates with very hot, humid summers. Plant where they will receive morning sun and afternoon shade, in fertile, well-drained soil. Dicentra spectabilis, Old-Fashioned Bleeding Heart Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: late spring Hardy: Zones 2-9 The foliage turns yellow and dies as plants go dormant by mid-summer. Echinacea purpurea, Coneflower Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: mid to late summer Hardy: Zones 4-9 Leave the dried seedheads on the plants to feed the birds and provide interest in your winter garden. Plant in well-drained to dry soil. 16

17 Eranthis cilicica, Winter Aconite Spacing: 2 Planting depth: 2 Height: 2-4 Blooms: very early spring Hardy: Zones 4-7 Excellent companion for Early Snowdrops and Star of Holland. Before planting, soak in lukewarm water overnight. Plant with the dimpled side up and the smooth, rounded side down. If in doubt, plant the bulb sideways. Erythronium, Dogtooth Violet Spacing: 3-4 Planting depth: 3 Height: 4-12 Blooms: mid-spring Hardy: Zones 4-8 Naturalize in a shady or wooded area. They prefer part shade and evenly moist soil, but will perform equally well in full sun when provided with enough moisture. Plant these toothlike bulbs horizontally. Eupatorium Spacing: 30 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: 30 Blooms: mid-summer to fall Hardy: Zones 4-9 Adaptable to most soils including poorly drained ones. Remove spent flowers to promote more blooming. North American native that is pest free. Euphorbia Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: late spring to summer Hardy: Zones 4-9 Euphorbias prefer well drained soils. In southern areas, plants hold up better when given partial shade in the afternoon. Compact varieties like Bonfire are great in front of the garden. Taller varieties like Jessie are better planted in the rear of the garden. 17

18 Fritillaria Spacing: 2-12 Planting depth: 3 times bulb diameter Height: Blooms: mid to late spring Hardy: Zones 4-9 The bulbs repel deer and rodents with their strong, musky scent and can be planted in areas where rodents have disturbed other bulbs. Plant in well-drained soil because they do not tolerate soggy conditions. Some Fritillaria bulbs have a hole in the center. We recommend planting these bulbs sideways to prevent water from collecting inside the bulb, which can cause it to rot during the winter. See catalog or website for individual variety information. Galanthus nivalis, Snowdrops Spacing: 2 Planting depth: 3 Height: 4-6 Blooms: very early spring Hardy: Zones 3-8 Snowdrops thrive in moist, partly shady spots. They make good companions for miniature Dutch Iris (Iris reticulata). Foliage goes dormant after bloom. Gaultheria procumbens, Wintergreen Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: 5-6 Blooms: early summer (flowers): fall/winter (berries) Hardy: Zones 3-8 Plant this native North American plant in moist, acidic, humus-rich soil in woodland gardens and under tall shrubs. Geranium, Hardy Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: 15 Blooms: early summer Hardy: Zones 4-9 Geraniums tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Remove spent flower stalks by cutting them to the base of the plant to encourage repeat blooms and to keep plants tidy. 18

19 Gillenia Spacing: 2-3 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: 2-3 Blooms: late spring to early summer Hardy: 4-8 Very rewarding perennial for shady areas that may require a couple of years to reach it s full potential. Gladiolus nanus, Hardy Gladiolus Spacing: 4 Planting depth: 4-5 Height: Blooms: early to mid-summer Hardy: Zones 5-10 These Gladioli are hardy enough to remain in the ground year round in Zones 5 to 10. For best results in Zone 5, apply 2 of loose mulch in late fall. Helenium Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: late summer to fall Hardy: Zones 3-8 These drought-tolerant prairie plants thrive in any well-drained soil. In Zones 7-9, prune floppy stems in mid-summer to encourage branching and additional flowers. Helianthus Spacing: 2-3 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: 5-6 Blooms: mid to late summer Hardy: Zones 4-9 Due to the height and spread of Helianthus, it works well along fences, walls, or in the middle of island beds where other plants can be planted in front of it. Helleborus Spacing: 24 Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early to late spring Hardy: Zones 4-9 Keep soil moist, especially in warmer climates. Semi-evergreen leaves may die back in areas with cold winters. Clip off dead foliage in early spring to encourage new foliage and expose budding flowers. 19

20 Hemerocallis, Daylily Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: summer Hardy: Zones 3-9 Plant in fertile, well-drained soil. Each flower opens for just one day, but each flower stalk carries many buds that open continuously over a long period. Hyacinth Spacing: 4-6 Planting depth: 6 Height: 6-8 Blooms: early to mid spring Hardy: Zones 3-8 Plant in well-drained soil. Note that hyacinth bulbs may cause skin irritation due to the naturally occurring dried crystals on the surface of the bulbs. To minimize irritation, rinse bulbs with water prior to planting, wear garden gloves when handling, and wash hands thoroughly. Hyancinthoides hispanica, Spanish Bluebells Spacing: 3 Planting depth: 3-4 Height: Blooms: mid to late spring Hardy: Zones 3 9 Plant in moist, well-drained soil. Dainty, lightly scented flowers are beautiful when allowed to naturalize. Not fussy about soil, they ll tolerate moisture as well as drought. Ipheion, Starflower Spacing: 3 Planting depth: 3 Height: 6-12 Blooms: early to late spring Hardy: Zones 5-9 These bulbs naturalize and form large colonies most readily in full sun, but will also grow in shaded areas. In Zone 5, apply a 2" layer of mulch to the planting area in late fall. Iris germanica, Bearded Iris Spacing: Planting depth: top of rhizome barely exposed Height: Blooms: late spring to early summer Hardy: Zones 3-9 Plant in fertile, well-drained, moist soil. Set the fleshy rhizomes in shallow trenches with the roots draped over a ridge of soil. The top of the rhizome should be just above the soil surface after planting. If 20

21 planted too deeply or in poorly drained soil, the rhizomes may rot. For best results, plant with the leafy end of the rhizomes all pointing in the same direction. Reblooming Irises flower normally in early summer and then send up additional flower stalks in late summer. Growing conditions such as soil fertility, climate and weather, determine whether or not they will bloom again. Iris dardanus Spacing: 6 Planting depth: 4-6 Height: Blooms: mid-spring Hardy: Zones 5-9 This is a species of Iris that prefers to be planted in very well-drained soil. Slopes and elevated areas where water runs off quickly are ideal. Thrives in areas with sandy and gravelly soils. Iris hollandica, Tall Dutch Iris varieties Spacing: 3*4 Planting depth: 4 Height: Blooms: late spring to early summer Hardy: Zones 5-9 Plant in well-drained, moist garden soil. In Zone 5, apply a 2" layer of mulch to the planting area in late fall for additional winter protection. Iris reticulata, Snow Dwarf Spacing: 2 Planting depth: 3 Height: 4-6 Blooms: very early spring Hardy: Zones: 4-9 Dwarf irises prefer well-drained, moist garden soil and full sun, but will tolerate shade. They will not thrive in areas with hot, wet summers. Grasslike foliage elongates after flowers fade, then dies back by early summer. Ixiolirion tartaricum, Lavender Mountain Lily Spacing: 2-3 Planting depth: 2-3 Height: 15 Blooms: early summer Hardy: Zones 5-9 Plant in well-drained soil. The bulbs do not tolerate waterlogged soil, especially in winter. 21

22 Leucanthemum, Shasta Daisy Spacing: 18 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early to late summer Hardy: Zones 4-9 Remove spent flowers to promote more blooming. Leucojum aestivum, Summer Snowflake Spacing: 4-5 Planting depth: 6 Height: 9-12 Blooms: late spring Hardy: Zones 4-9 Summer Snowflake tolerates more moisture than most other bulbs, so they naturalize easily even in damp soil and will thrive near ponds. Lilium, Lily Spacing: 8-12 Planting depth: 6-8 Height: Blooms: summer Hardy: Asiatic: Zones 3-9; Oriental-Trumpet: 4-9; Oriental: 5-9 Plant lily bulbs as soon as they arrive to prevent them from drying out. Asiatic lilies bloom in early summer. Fragrant Oriental and Trumpet lilies follow in mid to late summer. Plant smaller bulbs, such as Asiatic lilies, closer together and larger bulbs, such as Orientals, farther apart. Use the 8" planting depth for large bulbs and in hot-summer climates. In the spring, apply a 2" layer of mulch over your lily plantings to keep their roots cool they like their heads in the sun and their feet in the shade. Please see catalog or website for individual variety height and spacing information. Lobelia cardinalis, Cardinal Flower Spacing: 24 Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: mid to late summer Hardy: Zones 3-8 Red, tubular flowers attract hummingbirds. This American native plant thrives in moist soil. Lonicera sempervirens, Honeysuckle Spacing: 3 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: 3-6 Blooms: summer Hardy: Zones 4-8 This native honeysuckle can easily be grown on a trellis, mailbox or a 22

23 fence. Blooms on previous years growth. Any pruning to train should be done right after flowering in the summer. Mertensia virginica, Virginia Bluebells Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early to mid-spring Hardy: Zones 3-8 Native wildflower makes a nice companion for bulbs and shade-loving perennials. Plant goes dormant in mid-summer to reappear again in the spring. Monarda Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early to late summer Hardy: Zones 4-9 Monarda grows best in well-drained, evenly moist soil, but is relatively drought-resistant once established. It spreads by underground stems to form attractive colonies. To control spread, divide every 2 to 3 years. Select an area with good air circulation to help prevent powdery mildew. Muhlenbergia capillaris, Pink Muhly Grass Spacing: 36 Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: late summer to mid-fall Hardy: Zones 6-10 Airy clouds of pink flowerheads of this native grass combine well with tallergrowing perennials, especially asters, Helenium, goldenrod, and Rudbeckia. Muscari, Grape Hyacinth Spacing: 2 Planting depth: 3-4 Height: 6-7 Blooms: early to mid spring Hardy: Zones 3-9 Plant them in groups of at least 25 bulbs for the most dramatic effect. Narcissus, Daffodil Spacing: 4-6 Planting depth: 4-6, depending on the size of the bulb Height: 6-18 Blooms: early to mid-spring Hardy : Zones 3 8 Daffodils will form substantial clumps over the years. Divide the clumps in mid-summer when flowering decreases. Replant bulbs immediately in fertile, well-drained soil. For more details, please refer to the catalog or website. 23

24 Narcissus, Paperwhites Height: Hardy: Zones 9-10 These bulbs are meant to be grown indoors for autumn and early winter bloom. In a bowl without a drainage hole, place a 3 4" layer of gravel or stones. Plant the bulbs with the bottom half of the bulb nestled in the stones and the top (pointed) half of the bulb exposed. Add water and maintain its level just below the bottom of the bulbs. Alternatively, plant the bulbs in a container with drainage holes in regular potting soil. Place the pot in a cool, sunny window and turn it regularly to keep the shoots growing straight. Expect flowers in 4 to 6 weeks. Store any unused bulbs in a cool, dry and dark place for up to 6 weeks until you re ready to plant them. Discard after flowering as they will not readily bloom again. Eye Paeonia lactiflora, Peony Crown Spacing: 36-48, depending on variety Planting depth: eyes just below soil surface Height: Blooms: late spring to early summer Hardy: Zones 3-8 Bareroot Peony Plant the roots so the eyes (nubs where new growth emerges) are no deeper than an inch below the soil surface. If planted too deeply, they will not bloom. Peonies usually do not flower until their second or third year after planting. In zones with hot summers it is important to plant them where they will be shaded during the hottest part of the day. Remove faded flowers to keep plants tidy. See catalog or website for specific variety information. Papaver orientale, Oriental Poppy Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: late spring to early summer Hardy: Zones 3-7 The foliage dies back and plants go dormant after flowering. They sprout new foliage in late summer that remains evergreen through the winter. Plant in well-drained soil. They tolerate drought after becoming well established. 24

25 Perovskia, Russian Sage Spacing: 36 Planting depth: top of root ball level with soil surface Height: Blooms: mid-summer to fall Hardy: Zones 4-9 Plant in well-drained soil and avoid soggy sites. Plants can withstand some drought after they become established. Phlox divaricata Manita Spacing: 12 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: mid to late spring Hardy: Zones 4-8 Early bloomer that will gradually spread and makes a nice companion for daffodils. Phlox paniculata, Tall Phlox Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: mid to late summer Hardy: Zones 4-9 Deadhead to encourage more flowers. Plant in any well-drained garden soil. Divide every few years or as needed to improve flowering. Salvia nemorosa, Sage Spacing: Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early to late summer Hardy: Zones 4-7 Easy to grow perennial that blooms over a long period starting in early summer. Promote more flowering throughout the summer by shearing back spent flower stalks. Scilla siberica, Siberian Squill Spacing: 2 Planting depth: 3 Height: 4-6 Blooms: very early spring Hardy: Zones 2-8 Bulbs multiply to form large, colorful colonies in any well-drained, moist soil. 25

26 Syringa, Lilac Spacing: 8-12 Planting Depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: early summer Hardy: Zones 3-8 Provide regular waterings during dry periods when the plant is getting established. Established plants are drought tolerant. Prune out weak and crowded branches in the middle of the shrub to promote better blooming. Tiarella Spacing: 12 Planting depth: crown level with soil surface Height: Blooms: mid to late spring Hardy: Zones 4-9 The plants grow naturally in wooded areas with humus-rich, moist soil, but cannot tolerate constantly wet locations. Remove spent flower stalks. Tulipa, Tulip hybrids Spacing: 2-6 Planting depth: 6 Height: 6-30 Blooms: early to late spring Hardy: Zones 3 7, some to Zone 8 Tulips put on their best show in the first spring after planting. In following years, most tulips produce smaller and fewer flowers and their vigor will gradually decline. Some varieties, however, will perform well for up to 6 years. See our catalog or for more information about these perennial tulips. If you live in an area that does not receive at least 8 weeks of temperatures below 45 F, please see Tips for Warmer Climates on page 6. See catalog or website for specific height and spacing information. Windflower, Grecian (Anemone blanda) Spacing: 2 or 9-12 bulbs per sq. ft. Planting depth: 3 Height: 3-4 Blooms: early spring Hardy: Zones 5-8 Excellent companion for spring-flowering bulbs. Before planting, soak the bulbs in lukewarm water for about 6 hours or overnight. It may be hard to tell which end is up on this irregular, flattened bulb, so plant them sideways. We wish you a successful gardening season! 26

27 Index of Plants Achillea, Yarrow Agastache Allium species Amaryllis Amelanchier grandiflora, Autumn Brilliance Juneberry Aquilegia, Columbine Arum Aster Species Astilbe Species Athyrium niponicum Painted Fern.. 14 Baptisia, False Indigo Camassia leichtlinii Caryopteris Centaurea Chionodoxa forbesii, Glory of the Snow Coreopsis Crocus Cyclamen cilicium, Hardy Cyclamen. 16 Delphinium belladonna Dicentra spectabilis, Old-Fashioned Bleeding Heart Echinacea purpurea, Coneflower Eranthis cilicica, Winter Aconite Erythronium, Dogtooth Violet Eupatorium Euphorbia Fritillaria Galanthus nivalis, Snowdrops Gaultheria procumbens, Wintergreen.18 Geranium, Hardy Gillenia Gladiolus nanus, Hardy Gladiolus.. 19 Helenium Helianthus Helleborus Hemerocallis, Daylily Hyacinth Hyancinthoides hispanica, Spanish Bluebells Ipheion, Starflower Iris germanica, Bearded Iris Iris dardanus Iris hollandica, Tall Dutch Iris varieties Iris reticulata, Snow Dwarf Ixiolirion tartaricum, Lavender Mountain Lily Leucanthemum, Shasta Daisy Leucojum aestivum, Summer Snowflake Lilium, Lily Lobelia cardinalis, Cardinal Flower Lonicera sempervirens, Honeysuckle Mertensia virginica, Virginia Bluebells Monarda Muhlenbergia capillaris, Pink Muhly Grass Muscari, Grape Hyacinth Narcissus, Daffodil Narcissus, Paperwhites Paeonia lactiflora, Peony Papaver orientale, Oriental Poppy Perovskia, Russian Sage Phlox divaricata Manita Phlox paniculata, Tall Phlox Salvia nemorosa, Sage Scilla siberica, Siberian Squill Syringa, Lilac Tiarella Tulipa, Tulip hybrids Windflower, Grecian (Anemone blanda)

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