| Perennial Plantings |
| Maureen Gilmer adds perennial plants that can withstand cold Northeastern winters. |
From "Weekend Gardening"
episode WKG-405 |
|
|
Nine hours into the development of this small dooryard garden finds it well under way: the lawn has been renovated, new flowerbeds hold old-fashioned fragrant flowering shrubs and junipers now screen the view of the driveway. Now planting continues with an assortment of hydrangeas and cold-hardy perennials.
Hydrangeas like acidic soil and afternoon shade; these conditions produce large flower heads and beautiful foliage. Acidic soil will turn pink flowers blue: applying a magnesium sulfate supplement to the soil around hydrangeas will acidify the soil and quickly turn pink bloomers blue. Hydrangeas are best planted in the fall when they are not blooming. A north-facing exposure is best for hydrangeas. As with all new plants, they will need deep watering on a regular basis to develop strong roots. Drip systems are ideal for garden beds, but if no drip irrigation is available, soaker hoses and sprinklers left on for several hours at a time can ensure strong,
healthy plants (figure A).
| 
![PHOTO](javascript:popup("http://img.diynetwork.com/DIY/2006/05/02/wkg405_3fa_e.jpg",350,450))
