Winning in the Garden

Every year the Perennial Plant Association chooses one plant to represent the upcoming gardening season. As quoted directly from their website, “The Perennial Plant of the Year™ (POY™) program began in 1990 to showcase a perennial that is a standout among its competitors. Perennials chosen are suitable for a wide range of growing climates, require low maintenance, have multiple-season interest, and are relatively pest/disease-free.”

What more could you ask for?

Recently chosen for 2016 is Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’. I’m sure you’ll be seeing this all over the garden centres come spring. Best to know a little about this plant before we get to garden centre season.

We already know it will be a low-maintenance perennial so let’s get into the nitty-gritty details.

Soil: prefers fairly rich soil but can sustain with a good helping of compost put into the hole when planted. I would reapply a fresh helping of compost annually.

Moisture: even moisture

Light: part-shade

Mature height: 90-140cm

Mature spread: 60-90cm

Zone: 5-6a; will tolerate zones 4a-4b with a winter mulching

Bloom colour: white

Bloom time: August-September

Additional features: deer tolerant, good cut flower

The plant is rhizomatic, meaning it spreads effectively using its roots. It’s a great addition to semi-shaded gardens that need a bit of fall colour. Works well as a border plant and at the cottage garden where you need something that doesn’t require constant tending.

You can also expect this plant to be fairly pest and disease free which, once again, means less hassle in the garden. And that’s what we’re all looking for.

Start planning for your 2016 garden now – it’ll be here before you know it!