Take advantage of autumn’s mild weather for vibrant, long-lasting garden additions Veronicastrum virginicum, also known as Culver’s root Rodgersia podophylla You can reduce the build-up by thinning out the trees through selective pruning October provides us with the perfect window to plant herbaceous perennials. The soil still retains enough warmth and moisture to welcome new planting and allows them to settle in before winter arrives. Later on, when the soil is sodden, is not so good as you will be damaging the soil by compacting it.
In general, herbaceous plants like a good, rich soil to fuel their annual growth of foliage, flowers and seeds, so it’s always desirable to improve your soil before you get planting by gently forking in well-rotted manure or garden compost. You can also add this after planting around the plant and let nature break it down over time. There’s an old saying, “spend a penny on the plant and a pound on the hole”.
Although inflation can be applied to the figures, the sentiment remains true — soil improvement will produce happier plants. Putting the right plant in the right place is also key to success with your perennials. Examine where you are going to plant — does it receive a lot of sun or remain in the shade most of the time? There are suitable choices for all conditions and we are blessed with relatively temperate conditions in Ireland to grow a vast range of plants.
Here are some suggestions for sunny or partially-shaded position.