Perennial Plants for Your Garden in Somerset

Carl McDermott
5 hours ago
4 min read

Gardening is a joy that grows with time, especially when you choose plants that come back year after year. Perennial plants are a gardener’s best friend because they save effort and bring lasting beauty to your outdoor space. If you want a garden that flourishes with minimal fuss, perennials are the way to go.

Why Choose Perennial Plants for Your Garden

Perennials live for more than two years, unlike annuals that need replanting every season. This means once you plant them, they return each spring, often growing bigger and more vibrant. They provide structure and colour throughout the year, making your garden feel alive and welcoming.

Choosing perennials also means less work digging, planting, and buying new plants every year. They often have deep roots that help them survive dry spells, which is handy in Somerset’s sometimes unpredictable weather. Plus, many perennials attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local wildlife.

Top Perennial Plants to Consider

When picking perennials, think about your garden’s conditions: how much sun it gets, soil type, and how much space you have. Here are some favourites that thrive in Somerset gardens:

Lavender: This fragrant plant loves full sun and well-drained soil. It’s perfect for borders or pots and attracts bees. Lavender also has a calming scent that fills the garden.
Hostas: Ideal for shady spots, hostas have lush leaves and delicate flowers. They add texture and colour where sun-loving plants won’t grow.
Echinacea (Coneflower): These bright, daisy-like flowers bloom from summer to autumn. They are drought-tolerant and attract butterflies.
Sedum (Stonecrop): A hardy succulent that thrives in poor soil and full sun. Sedum’s pink or red flowers bloom late in the season, adding interest when other plants fade.

How to Plant and Care for Perennials

Planting perennials is straightforward but doing it right helps them flourish. Here’s a simple guide:

Choose the right spot: Match the plant’s needs with your garden’s conditions.
Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil and mix in compost to improve drainage and nutrients.
Plant at the right depth: Usually, the crown of the plant should be level with the soil surface.
Water well: Keep the soil moist until the plants establish.
Mulch: A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Feed annually: Use a balanced fertiliser in spring to support growth.

Regularly remove dead flowers to encourage more blooms. Some perennials benefit from dividing every few years to keep them healthy and prevent overcrowding.

Eye-level view of a colourful perennial garden bed with lavender and echinacea

Using Quality Compost for Healthier Perennials

Good soil is the foundation of a thriving garden. I always recommend using quality compost to improve soil texture and provide nutrients. For example, the Westland Multi-Purpose Compost is a great choice. It’s designed to support a wide range of plants, including perennials, by improving moisture retention and drainage.

This compost is easy to work with and helps your plants establish strong roots. You can find it at Chard Plant & Garden Centre, where the staff are happy to offer advice on the best compost for your garden.

Comparing Tools for Planting Perennials

Planting perennials is easier with the right tools. Two popular options are the Radius Garden Root Slayer and the Fiskars Garden Trowel. Both are excellent but serve slightly different purposes.

The Radius Garden Root Slayer is perfect for breaking up tough soil and removing weeds. Its sharp edges make digging holes for perennials quick and clean.
The Fiskars Garden Trowel is lighter and ideal for smaller planting jobs. It’s comfortable to hold and great for working in pots or tight spaces.

Choosing the right tool depends on your garden size and soil type. You can explore these tools at Chard Plant & Garden Centre and Chard Plant & Garden Centre.

Close-up view of a gardener’s hand using a garden trowel to plant a perennial

Seasonal Care Tips for Perennials in Somerset

Perennials need different care depending on the season. Here’s a simple seasonal guide:

Spring: Clear away dead leaves and mulch. Feed plants with fertiliser. Divide crowded plants.
Summer: Water during dry spells. Deadhead flowers to encourage more blooms.
Autumn: Cut back perennials that have finished flowering. Add mulch to protect roots from frost.
Winter: Protect tender perennials with fleece or move pots indoors. Avoid walking on frozen soil.

Following these steps helps your perennials stay healthy and come back stronger each year.

Creating a Perennial Garden That Suits Your Space

Whether you have a large garden or a small patio, perennials can fit in. For small spaces, choose compact varieties like dwarf lavender or small hostas. Use containers to add greenery to patios or balconies.

For larger gardens, mix different heights and colours to create interest. Plant taller perennials at the back of borders and shorter ones in front. Group plants with similar water and light needs together to make care easier.

Adding a seating area nearby lets you enjoy the beauty and scent of your perennials. At Chard Plant & Garden Centre, you can find plants, compost, and tools all in one place, plus friendly advice to help you plan your garden.

High angle view of a small garden patio with potted perennials and seating area

Choosing perennials means your garden will grow more beautiful every year with less effort. With the right plants, soil, and care, you can create a space that welcomes you back season after season.

If you want to explore a wide selection of perennials and gardening supplies, visiting a local garden centre like Chard Plant & Garden Centre is a great start. They offer quality plants, expert advice, and a friendly café to relax in after your shopping.

Start planning your perennial garden today and enjoy the lasting rewards of a garden that keeps on giving.