How to Grow Perennial Bushes - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Perennial bushes is a plant that lives for more than two years. Most perennial bushes are species that flower annually. Some remain green throughout the year, while others may lose their leaves in the winter.

How to Grow Perennial Bushes - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Yarrow
  • Sage
  • Rosemary
  • Lavender
  • Thyme

Basic info

  • Perennial bushes are long-lived plants that can live for many years.
  • They are typically low-maintenance, requiring little to no care once they are established.
  • Perennial bushes come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so there is sure to be one to fit your needs.
  • Many types of perennial bushes are drought-tolerant, making them ideal for locations that receive little rainfall.
  • Perennial bushes are often used as foundation plantings, privacy screens, or hedges.
  • Many of the most popular perennial bushes, such as hydrangeas and lilacs, produce stunning flowers that add beauty to your landscape.
  • Perennial bushes are typically very easy to propagate, so you can easily create new plants from cuttings.
  • Perennial bushes are generally very hardy and can withstand a wide range of environmental conditions.
  • Pests and diseases are relatively uncommon in perennial bushes, but it is still important to monitor your plants for signs of trouble.
  • With proper care, perennial bushes can provide beauty and enjoyment for many years to come.

Related plant:
Azalea Perennial

Growing Steps

  1. For perennial bushes, first step is to choose the right spot. Look for a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight a day.
  2. The next step is to prepare the soil. You will need to loosen the soil and remove any rocks or debris.
  3. Once the soil is prepared, you can plant the bush. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the bushÂ’s root ball.
  4. Place the bush in the hole and fill in around it with the loosened soil.
  5. Tamp down the soil gently to secure the bush.
  6. Water the bush deeply immediately after planting.
  7. For the first few weeks, water the bush daily. After that, water it every other day.
  8. Fertilize the bush every six weeks with a general-purpose fertilizer.
  9. Prune the bush as needed to shape it and encourage new growth.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful bush!

Related plant:
Hydrangea Perennial

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, well-drained soil is necessary, and it should be moist but not soggy. The ideal pH range for most bushes is between 5.5 and 7.5. Most bushes prefer full sun, but a few varieties can tolerate partial shade.

Light requirement

So, like the other plants, bushes need sunlight to grow. The amount of sunlight a bush needs depends on the type of bush. Some bushes are more shade-tolerant than others. However, all bushes need at least some sunlight to grow and thrive.

The Temperature

The temperature condition is important for the growth of perennial bushes. If the temperature is too cold, the bushes will not grow. If the temperature is too hot, the bushes will not grow. The optimum temperature for the growth of perennial bushes is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 60%, but it can survive in lower humidity too, however, the growth rate will be slower. It is a drought tolerant plant and can survive in partial sun to full sun.

The Fertilizer

Discussing fertilizer, this kind of plant food is important for perennials because it provides key nutrients for growth. Different types of fertilizer contain different amounts of nutrients, so it's important to read the labels and choose one that's right for your plants. In general, fertilizer should be applied in early spring and again in mid-summer. As for how much to use, the best way to find out is to ask your local nursery or gardening center.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of maintaining a healthy plant. By pruning, you are able to remove dead or diseased branches, as well as branches that are growing in an unwanted direction. This allows the plant to focus its energy on new growth and produce a healthier plant overall.

The Propagation

Propagation is asexual reproduction of a plant by producing vegetative clones of the parent. This can be done by rooting cuttings, layering, or division. Propagation is an easy way to produce more plants without having to start from seed. All you need is a piece of the parent plant to get started. To propagate a plant from a cutting, you will first need to take a cutting from the parent plant. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and include 2-3 leaves. Once you have your cutting, dip the end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with moistened potting mix. Be sure to keep the cutting moist and in a warm spot until it begins to root. Layering is another easy way to propagate plants. To layer a plant, bend a low-growing branch down to the ground and cover the portion of the branch that is touching the ground with moistened potting mix. Once the branch has rooted, you can cut it away from the parent plant and pot it up. Division is a great way to propagate perennials that form clumps, such as daylilies, hostas, and irises. To divide a plant, dig up the entire clump and then use a shovel or knife to divide it into smaller pieces. Each piece should have at least one growth bud. Replant the divisions right away and water them well.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate quickly in the spring and summer, when conditions are favorable. However, some varieties may experience a slower growth rate during these seasons. If you are concerned about the growth rate of your perennial bush, you can consult a nursery or gardening expert to find out which type is best suited for your needs.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are dehydration, pests, and diseases. Dehydration can be caused by too little water, too much sun, or a combination of both. Pests can include insects, animals, and fungi. Diseases can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

Growing Tips

  • Remember to plant your perennial bush in an area that receives full sun.
  • Be sure to prepare the soil before planting by loosening it and adding organic matter.
  • When planting, be sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the bush.
  • Once planted, water your bush deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.
  • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the bush to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Fertilize your bush annually with a slow-release fertilizer.
  • Prune your bush regularly to encourage new growth and ensure a healthy plant.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and take action if necessary.
  • Be sure to deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.
  • Enjoy your beautiful perennial bush!

Alternative Plants

  • Hornbeam
  • Hawthorn
  • Hazel
  • Honeysuckle
  • Holly
  • Witch-hazel
  • Forsythia
  • Spirea
  • Sumac
  • Dogwood

Source:
Perennials - University of Connecticut
Perennials - University of Tennessee
Herbaceous Perennials - 7.405 - Extension

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Herbs Category