Perennials are an excellent way to enhance any property, providing lasting beauty and structure to outdoor spaces. With low-maintenance blooms and foliage that return year after year, perennials add seasonal color and vibrancy that complements shrubs and other landscape elements. When shopping at TN Nursery, we have a diverse selection of hardy perennials that thrive in various climates, making it easy to create a lush, enduring landscape that enhances curb appeal and ecological health.
TN Nursery has been offering affordable perennial plants to the public since 1959, spanning three generations. Whether you need one plant or a thousand, we have a wide selection of native plants perfect for your landscaping project or home garden area. If you love wildflowers or perennials that are low maintenance and do not need a lot of care, then our plants will be the perfect ones for you.
Perennial plants are the backbone of any garden that is thriving and successful
Unlike annuals that you will need to replant every year, perennials return season after season. They have a host of environmental and aesthetic benefits. It doesn't matter where you are in your gardening journey, when you start incorporating perennials into your garden you're going to reap some big rewards. Take a look at some of the major advantages of growing perennials and how they can transform your gardening experience.
Perennials Are Low-maintenance
One of the undeniable benefits of perennial plants is that they are easy to care for. Once you establish them these sturdy plants require less attention compared to annuals. Reduced Planting Efforts Since they stay alive for several years, perennials are going to eliminate the need for annual replanting. This is going to save you a lot of time and effort in your garden, this is why they are the perfect choice if you are very busy but still want to enjoy gardening.
Drought Tolerance Perennials
These have deep root systems and this allows them to get access to water from the deeper soil layers in your garden. They are highly drought tolerant and can handle some tough weather conditions. Less Weeding If you're like most gardeners, weeding is probably one of your least favorite activities. The good news is that as perennials mature they create less dense foliage and this helps to suppress weeds. This kind of natural weed control reduces the need for you to use chemical herbicides or have frequent weeding sessions. Cost-Effective Gardening Saving money on your garden is something that most gardeners relish. One of the best things about perennials is that they offer long-term savings compared to annual plants.
When you make a one-time purchase of perennials, You are going to get years of beauty and utility out of them. Over time this is going to reduce the cost of replacing plants each season. Additionally, many perennials can be divided and propagated. This is going to allow you to expand your garden without too much additional expense. Some perennials thrive when they are split and replanted giving you more greenery in your garden for free.
Seasonal Continuity and Garden Aesthetics Of Perennials
If keeping your garden vibrant and dynamic year-round is one of your goals then perennials are definitely the right choice for you. You are going to experience continuous blooms at various times of the year. Certain perennials will usher in different seasons and if you take the time to plant and nourish them you're going to have a beautiful garden all year round. If you're looking to have structure and interest in your garden throughout the season perennials are a great choice for you.
Environmental Benefits
There are several environmental benefits to growing perennials and if you are looking to make your garden eco-friendly you can certainly do so with these plants. Perennials will stabilize the soil and reduce erosion over time. They also go a far way in enhancing the soil structure. While this is an awesome benefit for the environment it is not the only one. Perennial flowers attract butterflies, bees and other pollinators. This helps to sustain the ecosystem and support biodiversity. In general, because they require fewer resources such as fertilizer and water, once they have become established these plants are naturally environmentally friendly.
Biodiversity and Wildlife Habitat Perennial
These type gardens provide a natural habitat for various species. They will supply, nectar and seeds for pollinators, birds and small animals. This supports the environment and also wildlife. Since many perennials will remain in your garden during the winter they offer shelter for insects and small animals. Their dormant foliage will create a natural mulch layer which will protect the soil and plant roots as well. Functional Benefits for Your Garden Space Some perennials are low-growing and because of this, they reduce the need for you to mulch the soil extensively, while also helping to prevent soil erosion.
While low growing perennials may shelter and protect the ground there are tall perennials that create natural privacy barriers in your garden. You can replace your artificial fences with these natural barriers if you choose. They will certainly look more beautiful than the traditional fencing. Finally, many perennials are edible or have medicinal properties.
Perennial Plants attract Pollinators
Some will provide fresh food, while others can be used as herbs, for natural remedies. Perennials as a Legacy Planting perennials is a long-term investment that leaves a lasting mark.Your perennials are going to grow stronger and more robust as the years go by. There are some species that can live for decades and become heirlooms in your garden. They will be like a familiar friend that is always there. These plants leave a joy and beauty that will have future generations gasping at their beauty, but to get to this eye-catching moment you have to resolve to care for these plants in the best way possible.
Choosing the Right Perennials for Your Garden
Selecting the right perennials for your garden is very important. There are several factors that you need to take into consideration such as soil type, climate and your garden preferences. Consider getting native perennials as they will be better able to adapt to the region's climate as well as the soil.
This makes them very low maintenance and ecologically beneficial to you. Bear in mind that light requirements for perennials can differ so you need to consider this when you are making your selections. There are some that are sun loving and they will thrive in open spaces where they are hit by direct sunlight continually. However, there are others that flourish more in shaded areas.
Perennials are Environmentally-Friendly
Bloom time is also another consideration. You should choose perennials that have a staggered bloom time, this way you will have a beautiful garden no matter what season it is. Perennial plants are a lot more than just staples in a garden. They are a testament to the beauty, resiliency and sustainability that nature can provide.
At TN Nursery, We Know Quality, We Grow Perennials Right Here On Site
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my plants?
Immediately After Planting: Water the plants thoroughly right after planting to settle the soil around the roots. First 2 Weeks: Water daily or every other day, depending on the weather conditions. If the soil feels dry an inch below the surface, it's time to water. Next 4-6 Weeks: Water 2-3 times a week, gradually tapering off as the plant starts to establish itself. Ongoing: After the initial 6-8 weeks, water the plant once a week, more often in hot, dry weather, and less if there’s sufficient rainfall.
How do I know if my plant is getting too much or too little sunlight?
Signs of Too Much Sunlight - Scorched or Burnt Leaves: Leaves may appear dry, brown, or crispy, particularly around the edges or tips. This is often a sign of sunburn. - Faded Colors: The leaves may lose their vibrant color, appearing bleached or washed out. - Wilted or Drooping Leaves: Even with adequate watering, the plant may droop or wilt in response to excessive sunlight. - Slow Growth: The plant might struggle to grow, as too much sun can stress the plant and stunt its growth. Signs of Too Little Sunlight - Leggy or Spindly Growth: Stems may become elongated and weak as the plant stretches toward the light source, resulting in a "leggy" appearance. - Pale or Yellowing Leaves: Insufficient light can cause the leaves to turn pale, yellow, or lose their deep green color. - Slow or Stunted Growth: The plant may not grow as vigorously or produce as many flowers or fruits. - Leaves Dropping: In some cases, lower leaves may drop off as the plant tries to conserve energy. - No Flowering or Poor Flower Production: Plants that need more light may not bloom at all, or their flowers may be small and sparse. Tips to Adjust Light Exposure - Too Much Sunlight: Move the plant to a location with partial shade, use sheer curtains to diffuse the light, or provide shade during the hottest part of the day. - Too Little Sunlight: Relocate the plant to a brighter spot, closer to a window, or consider supplementing with grow lights if natural light is insufficient. Monitoring these signs and adjusting the plant’s location as needed will help ensure it receives the right amount of sunlight for optimal growth.
What should I do to prepare my plants for winter?
1. Mulching Apply a Thick Layer of Mulch: Mulching helps insulate the roots and soil, keeping them warmer and reducing temperature fluctuations. Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch (like straw, leaves, or wood chips) around the base of plants, particularly perennials, shrubs, and trees. 2. Watering Water Thoroughly Before the First Frost: Give your plants a deep watering before the ground freezes, especially for evergreens. This ensures they have enough moisture to withstand the winter since frozen ground can prevent water absorption. 3. Pruning Prune Dead or Damaged Branches: Remove any dead or diseased branches to prevent damage during winter storms. However, avoid heavy pruning, as this can stimulate new growth that is vulnerable to frost. 4. Protecting Sensitive Plants- Use Covers or Cloches: For plants that are sensitive to frost, such as young perennials or tender shrubs, use frost covers, burlap, or garden cloches to protect them from freezing temperatures. - Bring Potted Plants Indoors: If you have potted plants that can’t tolerate cold weather, bring them indoors or into a sheltered area like a garage or greenhouse. 5. Insulating Containers Wrap Pots and Containers: For outdoor potted plants that can’t be moved, wrap the containers with bubble wrap, burlap, or a blanket to help insulate the roots. 6. Cutting Back Perennials_ Cut Back Spent Foliage: Once your perennials have died back, cut the stems to just above ground level. This prevents pests and diseases from overwintering in the foliage. 7. Managing Fallen Leaves - Remove Fallen Leaves from Lawns: Rake up leaves from your lawn to prevent them from smothering the grass, which can lead to fungal diseases. - Compost Leaves: Instead of discarding leaves, compost them to create rich, organic material for your garden next spring. 8. Check and Maintain Equipment- Winterize Garden Tools: Clean and store your garden tools, hoses, and irrigation systems. Drain and disconnect hoses and sprinkler systems to prevent freezing and cracking. 9. Planting Fall Bulbs - Plant Spring Bulbs: Fall is the time to plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. Ensure they’re planted before the ground freezes. 10. Monitoring and Adjusting - Regularly Check for Frost Heave: Frost heave can push plants out of the ground. Regularly check and re-firm the soil around the base of plants if needed.By following these steps, you can help your plants stay healthy through the winter and ensure they emerge strong and ready to grow in the spring
What are the signs that my plant needs fertilizing?
Knowing when to fertilize your plants is key to their health and growth. Here are some signs that your plant might need fertilizing: 1. Slow or Stunted Growth If your plant isn’t growing as vigorously as it should, especially during its active growing season, it may be lacking essential nutrients. 2. Yellowing Leaves (Chlorosis)Leaves that turn yellow, particularly the older leaves at the base of the plant, can indicate a nitrogen deficiency or a lack of other essential nutrients. 3. Pale or Faded Leaves Leaves losing their vibrant color and becoming dull or pale might suggest that your plant is not getting enough nutrients, such as phosphorus or potassium. 4. Smaller or Fewer Leaves If your plant’s new leaves are smaller than usual, or if the plant is producing fewer leaves, this can be a sign of nutrient deficiency. 5. Poor Flower or Fruit Production A decrease in flowering or fruiting, or flowers and fruits that are smaller than usual, can indicate that your plant is not getting enough phosphorus or potassium. 6. Leaf Drop If your plant is dropping leaves, particularly without any apparent reason (like changes in temperature or light), it may be lacking in nutrients. 7. Weak or Spindly Growth Leggy growth, where stems are thin and weak, often occurs when a plant lacks adequate nutrition. 8. Purplish or Reddish Leaves A purplish or reddish tint on the leaves, especially older ones, can be a sign of phosphorus deficiency. 9. Overall Lack of Vigor If your plant looks generally unhealthy, with weak stems, dull leaves, and little new growth, it likely needs more nutrients. 10. Soil Test Results Conducting a soil test can reveal deficiencies in key nutrients. If the soil lacks certain nutrients, your plants will likely need fertilization. What to Do Next: Identify the Deficiency: Different nutrient deficiencies show specific symptoms. For example, nitrogen deficiency typically causes yellowing leaves, while phosphorus deficiency may cause purplish leaves. Choose the Right Fertilizer: Based on the signs your plant is showing, select a fertilizer that addresses the specific nutrient deficiencies. Balanced fertilizers work well for general feeding, while targeted fertilizers can address specific needs/ Follow the Instructions: Always follow the recommended dosage and application instructions on the fertilizer package. Over-fertilizing can harm plants more than help them.By keeping an eye on these signs, you can ensure your plants receive the nutrients they need to thrive.
How can I prevent pests from damaging my plants?
Preventing pests from damaging your plants involves a combination of proactive measures, good gardening practices, and sometimes natural or chemical interventions. Here’s a comprehensive approach to keep pests at bay: 1. Maintain Healthy Plants Strong plants are less vulnerable to pests. Ensure your plants are well-watered, properly fertilized, and planted in suitable conditions to promote healthy growth. 2. Regular Monitoring Inspect plants regularly: Check your plants for early signs of pest activity, such as holes in leaves, discolored spots, or tiny insects. Early detection is key to controlling infestations before they become severe. 3. Proper Spacing Avoid overcrowding: Planting your garden with adequate spacing promotes good air circulation, which helps reduce the humidity that many pests thrive in. 4. Remove Debris and Weeds Clear garden debris: Remove fallen leaves, dead plants, and other garden debris where pests might hide or breed. Weed control: Weeds can harbor pests and compete with your plants for nutrients, so keep your garden weed-free. 5. Use Companion Planting Plant pest-repellent plants: Some plants naturally repel pests. For example, marigolds deter aphids, and basil repels mosquitoes and flies. Planting these alongside your more vulnerable plants can provide natural protection. 6. Encourage Beneficial Insects Attract beneficial insects: Ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory beetles eat harmful pests like aphids and caterpillars. Planting flowers like dill, fennel, and yarrow can attract these beneficial insects to your garden. 7. Use Natural Pesticides - Neem oil: A natural pesticide that works against a wide range of pests, including aphids, mites, and whiteflies. - Insecticidal soap: Effective against soft-bodied insects like aphids and spider mites. It disrupts the pest’s cell membranes, causing them to dehydrate and die. - Diatomaceous earth: A natural powder made from fossilized algae that can be sprinkled around plants to deter slugs, snails, and other soft-bodied pests. 8. Introduce Physical Barriers - Row covers: Lightweight fabric covers can protect plants from insects without blocking sunlight or air. - Copper tape or rings: These can be placed around plants to deter slugs and snails, as they won’t cross the copper barrier. - Netting: Fine mesh netting can protect fruit and vegetable crops from birds and larger insects. 9. Practice Crop Rotation Rotate crops yearly: Many pests are host-specific, meaning they prefer certain plants. By rotating your crops each year, you can disrupt the life cycles of pests that overwinter in the soil. 10. Proper Watering Practices Avoid overwatering: Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases that attract pests. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day, which reduces the risk of attracting pests like slugs. 11. Trap Crops Sacrificial plants: Plant a small section of your garden with plants that pests are particularly attracted to. This can lure pests away from your main crops, where they can be more easily managed. 12. Handpicking Pests Manual removal: For larger pests like caterpillars, beetles, or slugs, handpicking can be an effective way to reduce their numbers. Drop them into a bucket of soapy water to dispose of them. 13. Quarantine New Plants Isolate new plants: Before introducing new plants to your garden, keep them in a separate area for a few weeks to ensure they are not carrying any pests or diseases. 14. Use Chemical Pesticides as a Last Resort Choose appropriate products: If natural methods aren’t effective, use chemical pesticides sparingly and choose products that are targeted to the specific pest you are dealing with. Follow instructions carefully: Overuse or incorrect application of chemical pesticides can harm beneficial insects, plants, and the environment. By following these practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of pest damage to your plants, keeping your garden healthy and productive.
How do I choose the right plant for my climate zone?
At Tn Nursery we do the work for you! All our plants have hardy planting zones on each product page. To Find your climate zone, click below: FIND MY ZONE