Perennials are the foundation of a flower garden. They are popular because they come back every year, saving gardeners both time and money. Once established, these plants require less water and fertilizer and less work. So if an easy garden is what you want, you should choose the right ones.
Experts say the best time to plant is in the fall because the soil is already warmed. After an initial phase of watering and establishing, they are largely self-sufficient. Their extensive root systems allow them to tolerate dry spells and improve soil structure. Perennials adapt to a wide range of conditions and won’t spread all over the garden like invasive rhizomes. They grow and bloom well, even if you do not divide them and are rough enough to hold their own against invasive species. They also provide a reliable source of nectar and shelter for local pollinators and wildlife, supporting a healthy backyard ecosystem.
While easy perennials do not need a lot of care such as pinching, staking and deadheading, daylilies do benefit from deadheading. They have a long life span and can live for decades. Some popular varieties of perennials are Black-eyed Susan’s which flower at the end of summer. Coneflowers are hearty and bloom from midsummer to early fall attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Hostas, which come in shades from dark green to chartreuse, bloom from early summer to fall and are tough as nails. Unfortunately, deer consider them a delicacy while rabbits love to nibble on perennials and annuals. Peonies, which bloom in mid-to-late-spring, are about the longest-lived perennials around. They thrive with little care and can live over 100 years! Sage, which comes in a variety of colors, is a drought resistant low plant that can be used at the front edge of flowerbeds. Columbine is a pretty, woodland perennial with bell-like red petals which attracts hummingbirds. Once started, it propagates for years and increases rapidly by self-seeding.
By selecting a variety of perennials, you can ensure your garden has continuous, changing blooms from spring through fall reducing the need for yearly replanting. Perennials offer staggered bloom times so you can enjoy continuous color and foliage changes from spring through fall. Unlike annuals that die each year, perennials are a one-time purchase that grow larger and stronger over time and can be divided to create entirely new plants for free. This makes them a great economic choice for gardeners on a budget.
The annual Cannon Valley Senior Center Arts & Crafts Exhibit is being held through May 30. Come help us celebrate the creativity of our members Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Many stunning arts and crafts pieces will be on display in the cafeteria across from the main office all month long.
Take me out to the ballgame! Friday, May 29, the CVSC is sponsoring our hometown Cannon Falls Bears at 7:30 p.m. at John Burch Park. They’ll be playing the Hampton Cardinals. Come and join us! As a bonus, our ensemble will play your favorite ballpark tunes from the bandshell starting at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $3. Hotdogs and popcorn will be served at the concession stand. Let’s come out and show our team some love!
Open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the CVSC is located at 120 State Street West. You can find us online at www.cannonvalleyseniorcenter.org and on Facebook. “Like us” on Facebook to stay connected with our activities and events. Join us each Monday at 10 a.m. for “Coffee Time!” For more information about our programs including our book club, card club, birding and sewing groups, singers and ensemble, senior bowling, playing Pickleball and trips, among others, call Lora Bremer our director at 507-263-2136. Donations are appreciated! Remember to use your 2026 membership card at local participating merchants for a discount.
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