Collection

Peak-Season Perennials for Your Region

Fine Gardening – Issue 212
Clockwise from top left: ‘Mönch’ aster, Photo: courtesy of Richie Steffen; ‘Ghost’ painted fern, Photo: Steve Aitken; ‘Kudos Silver Blue’ Agastache, Photo: courtesy of Terra Nova Nurseries Inc.; ‘Red Satin’ Coreopsis, Photo: courtesy of Mark Dwyer

While we would all ideally have gardens that look at their peak in every season, the reality is often far from that ideal. Very few of us have all the time in the world to dedicate to our gardens, and the hard truth is that the planning and work that goes into gardening means we often only get one season when we can sit back and enjoy the fruits of our labor.

As executive editor Danielle Sherry explains, “Winter is for planning. It’s when you really don’t want to be outside and when your time is better spent formulating the plan of attack to make your garden the best it can be. Spring is the working time period, when the bulk of your cleanup, planting, and projects gets done. Fall is also a working period and is generally when you can revisit the things you didn’t get done in spring.”

After all of that prep and planning, you want to ensure that your summer garden is at its prime when it’s finally too hot to toil. To help your summer garden really shine, regional experts shared their favorite perennials for this peak season. Find picks for your region below, and be sure to check out more fabulous summer selections in Peak-Season Combos.

 

 

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Dramm Revolution Adjustable 9-Pattern Metal Hose Nozzle

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- 15 x 10 x 7 inches
- Ergonomic insulated grip
- Maximum pressure of 90 PSI
- Fully adjustable spray pattern
- No trigger lock
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Nelson Multi-Pattern Stationary Sprinkler

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- 8 Pre-Set Watering Patterns
- Impact-resistant, plastic base
- Soft grip on multi-pattern head
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Gilmour 811673-1001 Sprinkler

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

- 43-ft. spray distance (up to 5, 800 sq. ft. coverage)
- Adjustable collar for partial- to full-circle coverage
- Dial precisely sets spray distance
- On/off switch eliminates trips from sprinkler to spigot
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