PLANT AHEAD by Gail Anderson

 Each spring, we all have the best intentions to dig dozens of perennials for the annual Plant Sale, but it’s such a busy time of year! So, I’m following Barbara Ostberg’s example and potting some perennials for the sale this fall. The photo shows some hostas and sedums I’ve already potted. Here’s what you can do—

As you are doing fall garden cleanup, dig, divide, and pot some of your perennials. If the foliage is scraggly or has died, cut back to 3”-4” above the soil. You can pot perennials nearly to the end of October, depending on the weather. Don’t use plain garden soil in the pots. Use soil-less potting mix. Or mix your garden soil with generous amounts of peat moss (and Perlite, if you have it). Potted perennials like good drainage. Then sink the pots in the ground so that the top of the soil in the pots is level with the surrounding ground. Pack soil firmly around each pot. Pots must be sunk in the ground, or the plants will not survive the winter. Keep the pots well watered until the ground freezes. In the spring, you simply lift the pots and your plant sale donations are ready! This procedure also prevents potential shock if you wait and dig the plants in the spring.

--Gail Anderson, IGC Horticulturist