Curved lines, varied plant heights, masses and textures result in a more natural appearance. Careful attention to foliage is important with perennials because few perennials bloom for more than a few weeks. Texture, form, height and color should be combined carefully. In addition to a linear calendar, plotting the garden to scale will ensure that these factors will be combined successfully. The bed in the following illustration was designed to provide continuous bloom from April to October.
Many perennials grown from seed take one or two years before they flower.
Many perennials may be seeded in June, then transplanted in early autumn. When purchasing potted perennials at a nursery, avoid selecting plants in bloom unless you must be assured of a specific color. Remove any flowers at planting time to promote root establishment. The price of plants relates to the size and age of the plants. Newer cultivars are more expensive than cultivars that have been marketed for several years.