June is National Perennial Month!

It’s June, and after what feels like an eternity of a typical Sheboygan County winter followed by a cool, lingering spring, we’re finally back where we want to be – spending quality time in our gardens and landscape beds. Trees and shrubs have fully leafed out, and most perennials have emerged, with many already beginning to bloom. There’s a sense of relief and reward in seeing the garden come alive again. 

Unlike annuals that offer a burst of color for just one season, perennials return year after year. Many live for decades, making them a cost-effective investment that provides reliable beauty without the need for constant replanting. While the average bloom time for most perennials is two to six weeks, thoughtful planning can ensure continuous color throughout the growing season. By combining different varieties, you can have one plant coming into bloom just as another begins to fade. 

Some perennials are especially valued for their extended bloom time – lasting eight weeks or more. Favorites like coneflowers (Echinacea), black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia), daylilies, Russian sage, and Shasta daisies not only provide long-lasting color but also add interesting textures and foliage even when they’re not in bloom. 

Growing perennials isn’t about instant gratification – it’s about building a lasting relationship with your landscape. There’s an old saying that captures this perfectly: The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and the third year they leap. With each passing season, their presence becomes fuller, stronger and more rewarding. 

Beyond their beauty, perennials offer a range of practical benefits. Once established, they are relatively low maintenance, requiring less watering and upkeep. Their deep root systems help improve soil structure, reduce compaction, and prevent erosion. They also play an important role in supporting pollinators, beneficial insects, and birds, contributing to a healthier garden ecosystem. 

As the owner of Caan Floral & Greenhouses in Sheboygan, I have the privilege of seeing this cycle up close. Each year, our team of growers propagate thousands of perennials right here on site. We’re always introducing new varieties as they become available and take pride in continuing to expand one of the area’s largest perennial selections.