Perennials For Wisconsin

Can you tell me what some colorful yet hardy perennials would be for Wisconsin?

There are so many beautiful perennials to choose from, it is hard to know where to start. A few outstanding spring bloomers include creeping phlox (Phlox subulata), rock cress (Arabis), bleeding heart, and candytuft (Iberis). Including a variety of dwarf to tall iris will help add color throughout much of the spring. And don't forget the peonies.

For summer bloom look for Veronica, also know as speedwell, salvia, coral bells, threadleaf coreopsis, blueclips and other campanulas (bellflowers), and Walkers Low or Six HIlls Giant catmint. Include a few repeat blooming shrub roses like Knock Out, The Fairy or Flower Carpet for structure and added bloom. Gayfeather (Liatris), Russian sage (Perovskia), Rudbeckia and Coneflowers (lots of new varieties to chose from) end summer and start fall with welcome color.

Asters, boltonia, goldenrod and Mammoth Mum finish off the season. Include a few ornamental grasses for motion, sound, foliage and winter interest.

Most of the plants listed prefer full sun and some will tolerate part shade. Match the plants to your growing conditions for the best results.

For more ideas visit a nearby botanical garden. These are great places to see how a variety of plants do in your area while gaining insight into using them in the garden.