Low-Maintenance Native Perennials

• Coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea)
• Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta)
• Bee balm (Monarda didyma)
• Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)
• Hostas (Hosta spp.)
• Phlox (Phlox paniculata)
• Salvia (Salvia spp.)
• Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
• Blanket flower (Gaillardia spp.)
• Iris (Iris spp.)

Aspects to Consider Before Purchasing Perennials

• Check their plant hardiness zone. While the perennials mentioned above are appropriate for Georgia gardens and landscapes, it's essential to note that the hardiness zone can differ depending on the cultivar. This means that some cultivars may be better suited to the Georgia climate than others
• Consider their adaptability to the environment and how well they will perform and contribute to your landscape's needs
• Carefully evaluate factors such as height, spread, color, bloom time and duration, and growth habit
• Some perennials may tolerate poor drainage, while others may not. Their tolerance for sun and shade can also vary

Tips For Planting and Caring for Perennials

• Collect the perennials you plan to plant and make sure the plants are healthy and that you buy them from a reputable garden center or local nursery
• Add organic matter to your planting area, such as compost, shredded bark, or composted manure
• Arrange plants in the bed before planting if you're creating a new bed
• Water the perennials before digging planting holes
• Dig a hole slightly deeper than the plant's pot and twice as wide, adding organic matter to the hole
• Tease and break up the base of the root ball if the roots are thick and conformed to the pot
• Position the plant in the spot so it's at the same depth as it was in the pot, avoiding burying the crown
• Mix organic matter into the soil you excavated and finish filling the hole, gently firming the soil around the plant
• Water the newly planted perennial thoroughly, allowing the water to soak deeply
• Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch, such as compost or shredded bark, to the soil

• Water deeply and regularly, but avoid overwatering as that will only affect the plant's health
• Use a balanced fertilizer to provide nutrients, but don't over-fertilize, which can weaken the plant making it more vulnerable to damage
• Remove spent blooms to encourage further growth and extend the blooming season significantly
• Regularly prune to maintain shape, prevent overcrowding, and remove dead or diseased growth to allow more space for the rest of the branches to grow freely
• Apply mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature for sustained growth
• Rejuvenate your plants by dividing them every few years, and you will have a more sustainable landscape
• Protect from harsh weather with covers or shade cloth
• Inspect regularly for pests and diseases, and take appropriate preventative measures