Perennials
A perennial plant is a type of plant that lives for more than two years, typically returning year after year. Unlike annuals, which complete their life cycle in one growing season, perennials can survive through multiple seasons, enduring the cold of winter and the heat of summer. These plants typically grow, flower, and seed each year during the growing season, then go dormant during the colder months. Some perennials, like certain flowers, are well-known for their vibrant blooms, while others, such as shrubs and trees, are valued for their enduring presence in landscapes.
What hardiness zone are we?
In Colorado, the climate varies widely depending on the region, but much of the state, including areas like Denver, is classified as USDA Hardiness Zone 5. This zone experiences cold winters, with temperatures often dipping as low as -20°F (-29°C). Zone 5 is ideal for growing a variety of hardy perennial plants that can withstand the region's cold winters and thrive in the warmer months. Understanding the zone in which you live is crucial for selecting the right plants, as it helps ensure that perennials will survive the winter and return year after year, adapting to Colorado's unique climate conditions.
Where are your plants grown?
At our nursery, we specialize in selling herbaceous perennials that are exclusively grown in Colorado. By focusing on locally grown plants, we ensure that each perennial has already been acclimated to the state's unique climate, including its cold winters and varying temperatures. These plants have naturally undergone the wintering process in the same conditions they'll face in your garden. This means that they are hardier and better prepared to withstand the seasonal fluctuations in Colorado's weather, giving them a greater chance of thriving long-term in your landscape. Our commitment to locally grown plants means that you can trust that the perennials you purchase from us are well-suited for the challenges of Colorado’s environment.
How many do I need?
Perennials truly shine when planted in mass groupings, rather than just one or two individual plants. This approach mimics the natural growth patterns found in wild landscapes, where plants often grow in clusters or larger communities. Mass plantings create a more visually striking display, as the repetition of colors, textures, and shapes enhances the overall impact. It also promotes healthier growth by allowing plants to support each other in terms of moisture retention, microclimates, and wind protection. In addition, a well-planned mass planting provides a fuller, more cohesive look, allowing your garden to feel lush and vibrant throughout the seasons, just as nature intended.
By selecting perennials that are both suited to Colorado's climate and planted in thoughtful mass groupings, you’ll create a more resilient and visually dynamic landscape that will bring beauty to your garden year after year.
What are some of your favorite perennials?
Some of our favorite perennials for Colorado include Coneflower (Echinacea), which is drought-tolerant, attracts pollinators, and blooms beautifully in the summer. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia) is another favorite, known for its vibrant colors and ability to thrive in our sunny, dry climate. Yarrow (Achillea) is hardy, low-maintenance, and great for adding texture to the garden. For a splash of color in the spring, Columbine (Aquilegia) is an iconic Colorado native that thrives in the state's varying conditions. Salvia and Agastache are both fantastic choices for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, offering vibrant blooms that stand up to Colorado’s heat and dryness. Russian Sage (Perovskia) is a tough, aromatic perennial that adds a beautiful silvery hue to any garden. Sedum (Autumn Joy) is a late-season bloomer that thrives in poor soil and provides stunning fall color. These plants are not only resilient but also provide long-lasting beauty, making them ideal choices for any Colorado garden.
Should I only plant native varieties?
A native plant is one that naturally grows in a specific region or environment, having evolved in that area over thousands of years. These plants are well-adapted to the local climate, soil, and ecosystems, which means they typically require fewer resources like water, fertilizers, and pesticides compared to non-native species. While planting native plants in your garden is a great way to support local wildlife and conserve resources, there are also many semi-native plants that are well-suited to the environment but may not have been present in the region historically. These plants, often introduced from similar climates or regions, have adapted well to local conditions and are increasingly becoming part of the local ecosystem. As they become more established, they may even be considered "native" in the near future. Semi-native plants can offer many benefits in a yard environment, such as providing more vibrant colors, longer blooming periods, and greater resilience, making them an excellent choice for gardeners looking to create a low-maintenance and sustainable landscape.
