Mahoney's Garden Center / Perennials
February 24, 2025 In Blog, Feature, featured, info-library, Perennials

Perennials You Can Start from Seed: A Beginner’s Guide

Many gardeners think of perennials as plants you buy fully grown, but did you know that several perennials can be started from seed? While they take longer to establish than annuals, growing perennials from seed is a rewarding and cost-effective way to fill your garden with beautiful blooms year after year.

Starting perennials from seed does require some patience, as many don’t bloom in their first year. However, the payoff is well worth it! Here are some great choices for perennials that can be started from seed, along with a few tips to ensure success.

 

Perennials at Mahoney’s Garden Center in Winchester

Perennials You Can Start from Seed

Agastache (Anise Hyssop)

A pollinator favorite, Agastache produces spikes of fragrant flowers that attract bees and butterflies. These seeds germinate easily and grow into hardy, drought-tolerant plants that thrive in sunny spots. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date for best results.

Dianthus barbatus (Sweet William)

Sweet William adds a splash of color with clusters of fragrant blooms in shades of pink, red, and white. This biennial/perennial is easy to start from seed and can even self-seed in the garden. Sow seeds indoors or directly outdoors in early spring.

Delphinium

Delphiniums are known for their striking, tall spires of flowers. They can be a bit fussy to grow, but a key trick is to keep young seedlings near a cooler draft once they develop. This helps them grow a strong, sturdy stalk, reducing the need for staking later on. Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost.

Lupines

Lupines are often said to be difficult to grow from seed, but with a little preparation, you can improve germination rates. Scarify the seeds by rubbing them between sandpaper and then soak them in water overnight before planting. These vibrant, spiky blooms attract pollinators and are perfect for cottage gardens.

Columbine (Aquilegia)

Columbine is a low-maintenance perennial with delicate, nodding flowers in a variety of colors. It prefers cool temperatures for germination, so starting seeds outdoors in early spring or fall can be ideal. Once established, it readily self-seeds, naturalizing beautifully in the garden.

Leucanthemum (Shasta Daisy)

Shasta daisies are classic, cheerful perennials that are incredibly easy to start from seed. Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date or directly in the garden once the soil warms up. They bloom in their second year but provide long-lasting beauty once established.

Nepeta (Catmint)

Catmint is a great choice for gardeners looking for a tough, deer-resistant perennial that thrives in dry conditions. The lavender-blue flowers attract pollinators, and the fragrant foliage deters pests. Nepeta seeds germinate easily and can be sown indoors or directly in the garden.

 

perennials from seedAdditional Perennials to Start from Seed

If you’re eager to try more, check out Botanical Interests’ blog for some ideas!  Here are a few our favorites that are great candidates for seed starting:

Tips for Success

  • Start early: Many perennials take longer to mature than annuals, so starting seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost gives them a strong head start.
  • Use a well-draining seed mix: Perennials don’t like soggy soil, so ensure good drainage in your seed-starting trays.
  • Provide light: Most perennial seeds need light to germinate, so follow packet instructions on whether to cover them with soil or leave them exposed.
  • Be patient: Some perennials take longer to sprout, so don’t give up if they don’t pop up as quickly as annuals.
  • Harden off before transplanting: Gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions before planting them in your garden.
  • Check out our blog: We wrote an entire blog filled with helpful tips on how to begin your indoor seeding journey.  Give it a read!

 

Starting perennials from seed may take a bit more time, but the reward is a long-lasting garden filled with flowers that return year after year. Whether you’re growing pollinator-friendly Agastache or the classic charm of Shasta daisies, there’s a perennial for every garden style. Give seed-starting a try this season—you might just be surprised by the results!

 

Shop Seeds Here

 

 

February 17, 2025 In Blog, Feature, featured, Landscaping, Nursery, Perennials, Trees and Shrubs

Designing for Winter Interest: A Guide to Vibrant Gardens Year Round

When winter sets in, it’s easy to feel like your garden is in hibernation mode—bare, lifeless, and gray. But with the right planning, your landscape can have winter interest filled with texture and color, even in the coldest months. By pairing trees, shrubs, and perennials, you’ll create a garden that not only looks stunning year-round but also provides essential food and shelter for birds and other wildlife. Let’s dive into how to plan a garden that turns winter’s bleakness into brilliance! 

 

garden with winter interest

 

Why Combine Shrubs and Perennials for Winter Interest? 

Shrubs provide structure, shelter, and berries for birds during the winter months, while perennials offer seeds, textures, and visual interest to fill in the spaces. Together, they create a layered, biodiverse habitat that looks beautiful and helps wildlife thrive. 

Shrubs often stand tall and strong, forming the “bones” of your winter garden, while perennials soften the edges and add movement with their seed heads swaying in the wind. Combining the two not only creates a balanced and dynamic landscape but also ensures your garden serves as a haven for birds, pollinators, and other critters throughout the year. 

Ornamental Bark: A Winter Focal Point 

birch for winter interet

Paper Birch Tree (Betula papyrifera)

To start your winter garden design, focus on trees and shrubs with stunning bark that shines when the leaves are gone. These plants provide year-round beauty and are especially eye-catching in the winter sunlight. 

  • Birch and paperbark maple create a dramatic effect with their peeling, textured bark. 
  • Japanese maple ‘Sango Kaku’ stands out with fiery red branches that brighten gray winter days. 
  • For a burst of color, try red twig and yellow twig dogwoods, whose vivid stems light up the landscape. 

Pair these with shorter perennials to highlight the bark without overwhelming it. Grasses like switchgrass or goldenrod (with its fluffy seed heads) add soft textures around these showy shrubs. 

 

Evergreens: The Backbone of Winter Gardens 

Spruce for Winter interest

Picea spp.

Evergreens anchor the winter landscape, providing a lush green backdrop and much-needed structure. Their sturdy branches not only offer shelter for birds and wildlife but also create a magical scene when dusted with freshly fallen snow, turning your garden into a true winter wonderland. 

  • Use tall evergreens like spruce, fir, and pine for dramatic height and year-round privacy. 
  • Mid-sized evergreens like arborvitae, juniper, and yew are great for hedges or focal points. 
  • For a unique look, try cypress or hemlock with their feathery foliage. 

Layer perennials like Joe-Pye weed, rudbeckia, and liatris in front of evergreens to soften their bold shapes and add winter seed sources for birds. These tall perennials keep their form long after blooming, adding interest and a valuable food source for wildlife. 

 

Broadleaf Evergreens: Year-Round Polish 

japanese andromeda for winter interest

Japanese Andromeda (Piers japonica)

Broadleaf evergreens bring glossy, vibrant foliage to the winter garden. They add a sense of fullness and structure, especially in smaller spaces. 

  • Boxwood is a classic choice for neat hedges or sculptural shapes. 
  • Japanese andromeda (Pieris japonica) offers clusters of flowers that emerge in late winter, adding a hint of spring. 
  • Japanese holly provides tidy, compact greenery and pairs beautifully with colorful perennials. 

To keep your broadleaf evergreens from looking too formal, surround them with naturalistic plantings of goldenrod, coneflowers, or switchgrass to create a wild, meadow-like vibe that contrasts nicely with their polished appearance. 

 

Winter Berries: A Feast for Birds 

Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata)

Shrubs and trees with berries are a winter garden must-have. Not only do they provide color and visual interest, but they also offer a vital food source for birds when other resources are scarce. 

  • Crabapples and hawthorns bring bright fruit that persists through winter. 
  • Winterberry holly and viburnum offer vibrant red or orange berries that liven up the landscape. 
  • Cotoneaster, juniper, and bayberry provide long-lasting fruit for birds and add texture to your garden. 
  • Snowberry’s frosty white berries are like tiny ornaments on its bare branches. 

Plant berry-laden shrubs near perennials like rudbeckia or helianthus to create a buffet of seeds and fruit for your feathered friends. Together, they form a multi-layered habitat that supports birds all winter long. 

 

Perennials: Texture, Movement, and Seeds 

Blazing Star (Liatris spicata)

Perennials are often overlooked in the winter garden, but they play a crucial role in adding texture, movement, and food for wildlife. Their seed heads provide a valuable resource for birds, while their dried stems and leaves bring beauty to the winter landscape. 

  • Agastache and liatris offer tall, architectural seed heads that sway gracefully in the wind, but will burst with color in the warmer months. 
  • Coneflowers and rudbeckia retain their iconic shapes even after flowering, adding visual interest and seeds for birds. 
  • Helianthus and Joe-Pye weed are showstoppers in both summer and winter, with their towering forms creating a strong presence in the garden. 
  • Grasses like switchgrass soften the edges of shrubs and trees, while goldenrod provides airy textures that sparkle with frost. 

When combining perennials with shrubs, think about layering. Taller shrubs like winterberry or red twig dogwoods form a striking backdrop, while mid-height perennials like Joe-Pye weed and goldenrod fill in the middle layer. Ground-level perennials like coneflowers and rudbeckia add detail and movement closer to the ground. 

 

Create a Winter Wonderland 

By thoughtfully combining shrubs, trees, and perennials, you can transform your garden into a four-season masterpiece. From colorful bark and evergreen foliage to seed-laden perennials and bright winter berries, there’s no shortage of ways to add beauty and life to your winter landscape. 

Not only will your garden look stunning, but it will also provide critical support for wildlife, creating a space that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Start planning now, and by the time the colder months roll around, you’ll have a garden you can enjoy from the warmth of your window—or bundled up outside with binoculars in hand, watching the birds! 

Come visit us at any of our 7 locations or check out our online store to pick up the building blocks for winter interest in your garden! 

 

October 11, 2024 In Feature, featured, Lawn and Garden, Perennials, Trees and Shrubs

Keep Watering Your Plants—Even When It’s Cold!

As the weather cools down and summer turns into fall, it’s easy to think your outdoor watering routine can take a break. After all, the heat waves have passed, and your plants aren’t thirsty anymore, right? Well, not quite!

Even though the temperature is dropping, your outdoor plants still need water, and they’ll thank you if you keep the hose handy until the ground freezes. Here’s why:

  1. Plants Still Need Hydration in Cooler Weather

When temperatures dip, plants naturally slow down their growth, but they’re not totally dormant yet—especially perennials, shrubs, and trees. Their roots are still busy underground, preparing for winter and soaking up as many nutrients as they can. Consistent watering helps these plants store the energy they’ll need to make it through the winter.

  1. Hydrated Roots Are Happy Roots

Roots are like the heart of the plant. If they dry out during the fall, plants can become stressed and won’t be in the best shape to survive the cold winter months. Well-watered roots can withstand winter damage better and stay healthier overall. Think of watering in fall as building up a plant’s reserves for the months ahead!

A slow trickle ensures root ball has time to absorb water.

 

  1. Dry Soil and Winter Frost Don’t Mix

If the ground is too dry when winter frost hits, the cold can penetrate deeper into the soil and damage the root system. Keeping your soil moist before the ground freezes helps insulate those delicate roots, giving them a much better shot at surviving. Moist soil acts like a cozy blanket for roots, slowing the freezing process and protecting them from harsh winter conditions.

  1. Winter Winds Can Be Brutal

For regions with strong winter winds, plants are at extra risk of drying out. Evergreens and shrubs in particular are vulnerable to something called “winter desiccation.” This happens when winter winds pull moisture from the plant’s leaves faster than it can be replaced by the roots. A good watering schedule in the fall ensures plants go into winter fully hydrated, giving them a fighting chance against drying winds.

  1. Late-Season Watering Helps New Plants Establish

If you’ve planted any new trees, shrubs, or perennials this season, late-season watering is even more critical. Their roots haven’t had a full growing season to establish themselves, so they need extra care. Consistent watering up until the ground freezes will give those young plants the strength they need to settle in and survive the winter.

To tell if the ground is frozen, try sticking a shovel or garden trowel into the soil. If it’s difficult or impossible to dig more than a couple of inches, the ground is likely frozen. Another method is to use a soil thermometer—if the soil temperature is at or below 32°F (0°C), it’s frozen. Frozen ground will also feel hard and unyielding, similar to concrete,

 

How Long Should You Water?

The general rule is to keep watering your outdoor plants until the ground freezes solid. Once the soil is frozen, the plants can no longer absorb water, so you can stop watering at that point. But until then, a good deep watering once a week (or more often if it’s been dry) will go a long way.

 

watering

 

It may seem counterintuitive to water plants when they’re not actively growing, but trust us—keeping your outdoor plants hydrated through the fall is one of the best things you can do for them. A little extra attention now will pay off big time come spring when your garden bursts back to life, healthy and ready to thrive!

So, before you pack up the garden hose for the season, remember to give your plants a good drink. They’ll appreciate it when the winter chill sets in, and you’ll see the results next year!

 

Now, what about watering your indoor plants when it gets cold?  We’ve got you covered!

Tricyrtis
October 10, 2024 In Blog, Feature, featured, Perennials, Seasonal

Keep the Color Going: 5 Perennials for a Vibrant Fall Garden

As summer winds down, you might think that the bright, bold blooms of your garden will start to fade. But the fall garden has its own special kind of beauty! By planting the right perennials, you can keep the color going strong well into autumn. Here are five perennials that offer spectacular fall hues and texture, plus one unsung hero that’s sure to impress.

Tricyrtis (Toad Lily)

Benefits & Features:
Tricyrtis, also known as Toad Lily, might not be as well-known as other fall perennials, but its unique beauty is worth adding to your garden. With delicate, orchid-like flowers in shades of white, purple, and speckled pink, it offers a striking display that begins in late summer and continues into the fall.

Care Tips:

  • Sunlight: Prefers partial to full shade.
  • Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained.
  • Soil: Likes rich, well-draining soil.
  • Why You’ll Love It: Tricyrtis adds an exotic touch to shaded areas of your garden and stands out in a time when other blooms are fading.
Tricyrtis fall perennial

Tricyrtis (Toad Lily)

 

Stokesia (Stokes’ Aster)

Benefits & Features:
Stokesia offers charming, daisy-like blooms in soft blues, purples, and whites that provide a fresh burst of color in the fall garden. It’s a compact plant, making it ideal for borders or containers, and its long-lasting flowers make for excellent late-season pollinator support.

Care Tips:

  • Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
  • Water: Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells.
  • Soil: Well-drained soil is a must; avoid overly wet conditions.
  • Why You’ll Love It: Stokesia is both heat- and cold-tolerant, offering blooms that persist when other perennials are winding down.
stokesia stokes' aster

Stokesia (Stokes’ Aster)

Dragon’s Blood Stonecrop (Sedum)

Benefits & Features:
Dragon’s Blood Stonecrop is a low-growing, succulent ground cover with rich, reddish-purple foliage that deepens in color during the fall. In late summer to early fall, it produces small clusters of pinkish-red flowers, adding extra visual interest. It’s perfect for rock gardens, borders, or as a filler between stones.

Care Tips:

  • Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
  • Water: Drought-tolerant; requires minimal watering once established.
  • Soil: Thrives in well-drained, sandy or rocky soil.
  • Why You’ll Love It: This easy-care sedum offers stunning color contrast and is ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance, drought-tolerant ground cover that adds year-round interest.
dragons blood stonecrop sedum fall perennial

Dragon’s Blood Stonecrop (Sedum)

Helianthus (Perennial Sunflower)

Benefits & Features:
Helianthus, commonly known as perennial sunflower, brightens the garden with cheerful yellow blooms that can last from late summer through fall. These tall, sun-loving plants provide a striking vertical element to your garden and are excellent for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Care Tips:

  • Sunlight: Full sun.
  • Water: Drought-tolerant but prefers regular watering for optimal blooms.
  • Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerates poor soil conditions.
  • Why You’ll Love It: Helianthus adds bold, sunny color to your fall garden and requires minimal care once established, making it a low-maintenance, high-impact choice.
helianthus perennial sunflower

Helianthus (Perennial Sunflower)

Dendranthema (Perennial Mum)

Benefits & Features:
Often overlooked in favor of the more common annual mums, Dendranthema (the true perennial mum) is a garden gem that deserves more attention. These hardy perennials come back year after year, offering rich, dense mounds of flowers in classic mum shades—perfect for your fall garden.

Care Tips:

  • Sunlight: Full sun.
  • Water: Regular watering, especially during dry spells.
  • Soil: Well-draining soil is essential; avoid soggy conditions.
  • Why You’ll Love It: Unlike the potted mums often sold in fall, Dendranthema will return reliably every year with vibrant flowers, making it a long-term investment in fall color.
Dedranthema FALL PERENNIAL

Dedranthema (Perennial Mum)

 

These five perennials are your go-to plants for adding stunning color to your fall garden. Whether you want to attract pollinators, create beautiful arrangements, or simply enjoy the autumn season in your garden, these plants will keep your space vibrant and lively long after summer fades.

And once breezy autumn starts to turn into chilly winter, why not leave your perennials untouched for our animal friends?  Check out our blog post on the eco-friendly reason you should leave your perennials alone at the end of fall!  Less work for you and great for our environment, win win!

 

Happy planting!

 

 

September 27, 2024 In Annuals, info-library, Perennials, Seasonal

Creating the Perfect Fall Window Box

Autumn is here! See how Julia spruces up our Winchester store fall window boxes and front entrance with festive annuals and perennials.

The recipe for this delicious window box is as follows:

  • Echinacea
  • Celosia
  • Ornamental Grass
  • Swiss Chard
  • Jacob’s Ladder
  • Ornamental Cabbage or Kale
  • Ornamental Peppers
  • Mums
  • Sugar Pumpkins

 

For more fall foliage ideas check out our newest blog post on mum alternatives!

 

Make it easy: Order Pickup for Plants Here!

 

 

fall ornamental peppers in massachusetts
September 25, 2024 In Annuals, Blog, Perennials, Seasonal

Step Up Your Fall Garden Game with These Mum Alternatives

When fall rolls around, chrysanthemums (or “mums”) are usually the go-to plant to add a burst of color. But what if you’re looking to break the mold a bit this year? Fortunately, there are so many other vibrant and unique plants that thrive in the cooler weather and can bring a fresh look to your autumn garden. Here’s a roundup of some fantastic mum alternatives that’ll add texture, color, and personality to your fall display! 

 

celosia cock's comb in new england

 

Celosia: The Showstopper

If you’re looking for a plant that will turn heads, celosia is a stunning option. This eye-catching beauty comes in bold, vibrant colors, with unique flower shapes that almost look like flames. Three standout varieties to consider for fall are: 

  • Intenz: Known for its striking purple-pink spikes that add height and drama. 
  • Kelo Fire: This variety bursts with fiery reds and oranges, a perfect autumn palette. 
  • Twisted: True to its name, this variety has a quirky, spiral flower shape that will add texture and whimsy to your garden. 

Celosia loves full sun and is fairly low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for brightening up your fall containers or garden beds. 

 

fall ornamental peppers in massachusetts

 

 

Ornamental Peppers (Capsicum annuum): A Splash of Color and Spice

Ornamental peppers are a fantastic option if you want to mix some unique shapes and bright pops of color into your fall décor. These peppers come in shades of purple, red, orange, and yellow, often appearing all at once on the same plant. Their compact size makes them great for both garden beds and containers. 

Just note: While they look tempting, ornamental peppers aren’t meant for eating (they can be quite spicy or bitter), but they sure are pretty to look at! 

 

pansies in winchester ma

 

 

Pansies and Violas (Viola tricolor var. hortensis): Cool-Weather Champions

Pansies and violas are classics for fall planting, and for good reason! These cool-weather flowers come in a huge variety of colors and patterns, allowing for endless design possibilities. 

  • Pansies (Clear vs. Blotched): Clear pansies have solid, vibrant colors, while the blotched varieties feature dark, dramatic centers, creating a “face” on the flower. Both are excellent for fall gardens. 
  • Violas: With their smaller, daintier flowers, violas tend to be more resilient than pansies and can handle colder weather. They come in almost every color imaginable, from soft pastels to deep, rich hues. 

Both pansies and violas love cooler temperatures and can survive light frosts, making them a perfect choice for fall. 

 

 

ornamental grass at garden center in new england

 

 

Ornamental Grasses: Texture and Movement

For a more natural, flowing look, ornamental grasses like Fountain Grass (Pennisetum rubrum) and Fireworks (Pennisetum setaceum) are fantastic options. They add height, texture, and movement to your fall garden with their wispy plumes and rich colors. 

  • Fountain Grass: This grass has stunning deep red-purple foliage and feathery plumes that look amazing when the sunlight hits them. 
  • Fireworks: As its name suggests, this variety has explosive red, pink, and cream tones, adding a bold statement to your fall garden. 

These grasses look stunning when paired with flowering plants and provide a striking contrast in texture. 

 

zinnia in woburn ma

 

 

Zinnias: Bold, Bright, and Beautiful

Zinnias are known for their bright colors and cheerful blooms, and while they’re typically associated with summer, they can continue to thrive into early fall. Varieties like mixed zinnias and bicolor zinnias (which feature two-tone petals) can add an unexpected splash of color to your fall garden. 

Zinnias are easy to grow and come in a wide range of colors, including yellows, oranges, and reds—perfect for autumn! 

 

ornamental kale and cabbage in massachusetts

 

 

Cabbage and Kale (Brassica oleracea): Bold and Textured

Ornamental cabbage and kale are fantastic foliage plants that are often overlooked. With their bold, rosette shapes and cool tones of purple, green, and white, they bring a whole new texture to fall displays. Plus, they’re incredibly hardy and can withstand cooler temperatures, even after frosts. 

These plants pair beautifully with flowering varieties, providing a leafy contrast that brings depth and interest to your garden. 

 

petunias calibrachoa new england

 

Fall-Colored Petunias and Million Bells (Calibrachoa)

Petunias are often associated with summer, but there are fall-colored varieties that bloom in shades perfect for autumn, like warm oranges, rich reds, and deep purples. The Super Cal series is especially hardy and can withstand cooler weather, giving your garden a splash of color late into the season. 

Million Bells (or Calibrachoa) also come in beautiful fall colors like gold, burnt orange, and burgundy. These plants are prolific bloomers and can spill gracefully over the edges of containers, adding a cascading effect that looks beautiful in fall arrangements. 

 

Montauk nippon daisies in new england garden center

 

Montauk Daisy: The Late Bloomer

If you’re looking for a plant that will bloom well into the fall, the Montauk daisy is a great option. This sturdy, sun-loving plant produces classic white daisy blooms that contrast nicely with the deeper fall colors around it. Montauk daisies are low-maintenance and perfect for adding some late-season cheer to your garden. 

 

Helenium: Rich Hues of Autumn

Helenium, also known as sneezeweed, is another fall bloomer that offers warm, rich colors like red, orange, and yellow. Its daisy-like flowers with bold centers are perfect for adding depth and a true fall feel to your garden. 

 

fall windowbox ideas

 

While mums are certainly a fall favorite, these alternatives offer a range of colors, textures, and shapes that can bring new life and creativity to your autumn garden. Whether you’re drawn to the bold spikes of celosia, the vibrant hues of ornamental peppers, or the soft, cool tones of ornamental cabbages and kales, there’s an endless variety of plants that can elevate your fall garden game. So go ahead—experiment, mix, and match! Your fall display will be anything but ordinary. 

 

Looking for some inspiration?  Check out Nancy and Julia making some beautiful containers and window boxes (like the one above) with these mum alternatives!

 

Come visit us at any one of our 7 locations to see what we have in stock to make your fall more colorful! 

 

 

rudbeckia black eyed susan heat loving perennial
August 13, 2024 In Feature, featured, info-library, Perennials

Hot Weather Heroes: 5 Heat Tolerant Perennials

Gardening in New England can be a challenge. With cold winters and sometimes scorching summer days, finding the right plants that can handle the heat without wilting can feel like a tricky task. But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with some amazing heat-tolerant perennials that are not only tough but also beautiful and easy to care for. Let’s dive into the top 5 perennials that will keep your garden looking fabulous, even during the hottest New England summer days.  Annuals more your speed?  Check out our blog on heat loving annuals here!

 

  1. Sedum (Stonecrop)

Looking for a plant that’s as tough as it is beautiful? Sedum, also known as Stonecrop, is a succulent that can take the heat and keep on thriving. These plants love the sun and can handle drought like a champ. Plus, they’re cold-hardy, which means they’ll survive New England’s winter chill too. Consider adding varieties like ‘Autumn Joy,’ ‘Rock N’ Around,’ or the vibrant ‘Angelina’ to your garden for a pop of color that lasts all season long.

 

green sedum heat tolerant perennial

Mahoney’s Grown Sedum at Mahoney’s in Winchester, MA

 

  1. Echinacea (Coneflower)

Echinacea, commonly known as Coneflower, is a perennial favorite among gardeners, and for good reason. These plants are not only heat-tolerant but also drought-resistant. They’re perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden while requiring minimal upkeep. Plus, they attract butterflies, which adds a touch of magic to your outdoor space. Try out varieties like ‘Magnus,’ ‘PowWow Wild Berry,’ or the colorful ‘Cheyenne Spirit’ for a garden that’s both vibrant and resilient.

 

echinacea heat proof perennial coneflower

Pink Echinacea in New England

 

  1. Lavandula (Lavender)

If you’re dreaming of a garden filled with soothing fragrance and low-maintenance plants, Lavender is your go-to. This Mediterranean beauty loves the heat and thrives in dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for New England summers. Lavender isn’t just pretty to look at; it’s also incredibly useful. You can use it in sachets, potpourris, or even in cooking! Some top varieties to consider are ‘Munstead,’ ‘Hidcote,’ and the always beautiful ‘Annet.’

lavandula perennial lavender heat tolerant perennial

Perennial Lavender in New England

 

  1. Coreopsis (Tickseed)

Coreopsis, also known as Tickseed, is a bright and cheerful perennial that loves the sun. These plants are heat-tolerant and require very little water, making them perfect for those hot summer days. They’re also incredibly easy to grow, so they’re great for both beginner gardeners and seasoned pros. Consider varieties like ‘Moonbeam,’ ‘Zagreb,’ or ‘Crème Caramel’ for a burst of sunny color in your garden.

 

coreopsis tickseed heat loving perennial

Coreopsis (Tickseed) at Mahoney’s Garden Center in Winchester, MA

 

 

  1. Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan)

No garden is complete without the classic Black-eyed Susan. Rudbeckia is a hardy, heat-tolerant plant that’s perfect for New England’s summer heat. These vibrant yellow flowers are easy to grow and maintain, making them a favorite for busy gardeners. Plus, they’re butterfly magnets! Try planting varieties like ‘Goldsturm,’ ‘Viette’s Little Suzy,’ or the compact ‘Little Goldstar’ for a garden that’s both beautiful and bustling with life.

 

rudbeckia black eyed susan heat tolerant perennial

Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan) At Mahoney’s Garden Centers of New England

 

Gardening in New England doesn’t have to be a struggle, even during the hottest days of summer. With these heat-tolerant plants, you can create a garden that’s not only stunning but also resilient. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these plants will make your garden the envy of the neighborhood.  So, grab your gardening gloves, save water by learning best watering practices and start planting! Your heat-proof, beautiful garden awaits.

Stop by Mahoney’s Garden Center to pick up these hardy plants and more and take a look at our planting guides to get you started. We’re here to help you every step of the way!

 

SHOP PICKUP + DELIVERY HERE

 

 

January 18, 2024 In info-library, Perennials

Pruning Roses with Jeanette

When the forsythia blooms, it’s time to prune your roses! Our very own rose expert, Jeanette, loves roses and loves to show what she knows about them. Join us as Jeanette takes us step by step through her guide to pruning roses in early Spring. Note: the roses featured are Hybrid Tea roses that will benefit from a prophylactic dose of fungicide or neem oil after pruning. Other varieties are such as Knock Out Roses or David Austin are less susceptible to such issues and you can skip that step with those!

November 15, 2023 In Blog, info-library, Perennials

Embracing the Wild: The Case for Leaving Perennials Untouched This Fall

A dilemma arises as we reach the fall season and wonder how best to prep our gardens for next spring: to cut or not to cut back our beloved perennials? Well, today, we’re here to make a case for letting nature take its course and leaving those garden stalwarts standing tall. 

There’s a prevailing notion that a well-kept garden requires a meticulous fall cleanup, but we’d like to offer an alternative. Letting your perennials stand proud through the winter not only offers a unique aesthetic appeal but also nurtures the ecosystem in ways we might not have considered. 

 

A Buffet for Our Feathered Friends

By resisting the urge to trim back your perennials in the fall, you’re essentially setting up a bird-friendly buffet. Seed heads left on plants become a vital food source for our feathered friends during the colder months. Imagine the delight of watching a vibrant array of birds flocking to your garden for a snack! By leaving nature’s pantry intact, you’re contributing to the well-being of local bird populations. 

 

 

Mother Nature’s Insulation

When fall arrives, it’s tempting to tidy up the garden and clear away the remnants of summer growth. However, we encourage you to consider a new practice: leave the leaves. Leaving plant matter on the ground serves a crucial purpose – natural insulation. The fallen leaves and stems create a protective layer that shields the soil from harsh winter conditions. This insulation helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and promotes a healthier, more resilient garden come spring. It also provides an important winter home for our native pollinators, keep reading to learn more! 

 

An Insect Haven

In the tangle of stems and seed heads lies a sanctuary for insects. Many beneficial insects, including native butterflies and bees, use the leftover plant material as shelter. This not only provides them with a cozy home during the winter but also ensures their presence when spring rolls around. It’s a win-win situation – a thriving insect population to improve your garden, all while supporting the delicate balance of the local ecosystem. Native pollinators use this protective covering until it warms up in New England, so to encourage native pollinator populations to thrive, it’s best to leave the leaves until we’re past the last frost date.  

 

But, we all have different aesthetic desires! If you’re choosing to go eco-friendly this year and have your perennials let their hair down, there is only one exception in which you’ll need to break out the pruners and give them a haircut, and that’s to rid them of any diseased, damaged, or dead bits and bobs.  Clean those up and make sure to dispose of the cuttings to keep your newly insulated soil and plants healthy and disease-free! 

 

A Note on Pruning

When it comes to pruning, precision is key. Use high-quality pruners like Felco or Corona and make sure they are clean and sharp to make clean cuts, preventing unnecessary stress on the plants. If you do want to cut back your perennials to achieve that clean winter style, here’s a quick how-to: 

Woody Perennials:

For woody perennials, the key is not to cut too close to the ground.  You’ll want to trim off any tender stem, but no further down than that! 

Tender Perennials: 

For tender perennials, it’s all about listening to the plant, you can cut as low as you desire, but you just want to make sure you stop right above any new growth! Most perennials, however, can be cut almost all the way down to the ground.

 

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We understand the concern. If you opt not to cut back your perennials in the fall, you might wonder about the impending spring chaos. Fear not! While you may not be doing the bulk of the pruning in the fall, a little tidying up in the spring will do wonders. Remove any dead or damaged growth, and your garden will quickly bounce back, rejuvenated, and ready for the growing season. 

 

Resist the temptation to shear your perennials into neat little bundles this fall. Embrace the beauty of nature’s chaos, and in doing so, you’ll be fostering a healthier ecosystem. From supplying nourishment for birds to creating cozy homes for beneficial insects, and even acting as a protective blanket for the soil – leaving your perennials untouched is a gift to both your garden and the environment. 

 

So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and enjoy the untamed beauty of your fall garden. Your perennials will thank you, and so will the birds and insects that call your garden home. Happy gardening!