Year-Round Gardening: Perennials and Plants that Thrive Across Seasons in New Zealand 

Year-round gardening may seem daunting, but it's entirely possible with the proper planning and the right plants. Gardening is an enjoyable and fulfilling hobby that provides many with a peaceful retreat from the busyness of everyday life. It not only offers fresh produce and a stunning outdoor space but also provides a sense of accomplishment. This article will provide you with all the necessary tips and suggestions to help you easily achieve your year-round gardening goals, including perennial plants, all-season plants, and perennial flowers. 

 

All-Season Plants: Year-Round Interest 

Perennial plants are a great addition to any garden, as they come back year after year without replanting. They are ideal for beginner gardeners, as they can withstand different weather conditions and temperature variations. This makes all season plants a perfect choice for those still learning about their garden's conditions while enjoying its beauty all year round. Additionally, perennial flowers and plants can be an intelligent financial investment since they come back year after year and often grow and multiply independently.  

 

Perennial Vegetables for Continuous Gardening Success  

If you want to grow vegetables year-round, consider incorporating hardy perennial plants. These plants can offer continuous value through harvest across multiple years.

Some examples of hardy perennial vegetables include:  

1. Asparagus: Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can survive up to 20 years in your garden making it a superstar of all season plants. It's a low-maintenance plant that requires little care and attention once established.

2. Rhubarb: Rhubarb is a versatile and nutritious perennial vegetable that can be harvested continuously for up to 20 years. It thrives in the cooler climates of New Zealand and can be used in various dishes, such as pies and jams.

3. Artichokes: Artichokes are a distinctive and delicious vegetable that can enhance the sophistication of any dish. These resilient plants can grow in different soil types and need minimal upkeep. They are nutritious perennial plants offering continuous harvests for up to five years.

Honourable mentions: Sorrel, Scarlet runner bean, Spring onion, Pepino, Miners lettuce, Goji berry, and Watercress. 

Perennial Flowers: Blooms That Last 

Perennial flowers are a great way to add colour and beauty to your garden all year round. These flowers bloom during different seasons, providing a stunning backdrop to your garden while attracting pollinators throughout the year. The best part is that you only need to plant them once, and they will grow yearly. They often multiply and can be divided and replanted throughout the garden, giving you even more benefits. 

Some examples of perennial flowers include:  

1. Delphinium - is a classic spring flower in many different colours. It blooms in spring and autumn. Whether you're looking to add a pop of colour to your landscape or create a stunning centrepiece, delphinium is a versatile and beautiful choice.

2. Echinacea - Echinacea is a pollinator favourite, and a vibrant flower and herb that can bring a pop of colour to your garden. It's a resilient plant that can grow in a variety of soil types and does not require excessive watering.

3. Irish Moss - is a delightful plant that can add a touch of greenery to your garden. It's lush and dense growth can be used as a ground cover or to fill gaps between stones or pavers. Its bright green colour and soft texture make it a popular choice for landscaping. With masses of tiny flowers in late spring/early summer once established.

Honourable mentions: Aquilegia, Dahlia, Snail vine, Gaillardia, Penstemon, Bellis pompom, Salvia and Echinops.

Hardy Perennial Plants: Herbs That Thrive Year-Round 

Perennial herbs are an excellent investment for any home cook or gardener. By planting these herbs in a garden or pot, you can save a lot of money over the years, as these herbs can live for a long time and provide fresh and flavorful additions to your meals all year round. Growing them in pots makes them easy to move around and keep handy whenever you need them. 

Some examples of hardy perennial herbs include:  

1. Thyme - Thyme is a versatile herb that can enhance the flavour of your dishes with its distinct Mediterranean taste. This herb is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in different soil conditions with minimal watering. It can also be used as a ground cover, making it a practical addition to your garden. By incorporating thyme into your cooking, you can add a delicious and aromatic touch to your meals while enjoying its many health benefits.

2. Oregano - Oregano, a star perennial plant, that can enhance the taste of numerous dishes and be used fresh and dry. This hardy plant can thrive in various soil conditions and requires minimal upkeep. With its spreading nature, it can also serve as ground cover.

3. Rosemary - Rosemary is a herb known for its resilience and adaptability to different soil conditions. A standout all season plant. It requires minimal watering and can thrive in both humid and dry climates. Rosemary is a versatile herb in many dishes, including roasted meats, soups, and desserts. Its distinct and aromatic flavour profile makes it popular among cooks and chefs.

Honourable mentions: Chives, Peppermint, Lovage, Catmint, Stevia, Lemongrass, Orange balm, Valerian, Fennel, Astragalus, and Ramps.

Preparing and Maintaining Your Garden for Year-Round Growth 

To ensure your year-round plants thrive, prepare and maintain your garden correctly, including soil preparation, mulching, watering, regular maintenance, and seasonal adjustments. Proper soil drainage and nutrition are essential for all season plants. Mulching retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates temperature. Regular maintenance and seasonal adjustments keep your perennial plants thriving year after year. 

 

Enjoy Your Garden All Year!  

With some planning and the right seeds/plants, gardening can be fun and rewarding all year round. Add perennial plants, all-season plants, hardy perennial vegetables, and herbs to your garden, and voila! You can enjoy the beauty of your garden throughout the year and make the most of your outdoor space. Remember to prepare and maintain your garden with a focus on healthy soil, and don't hesitate to experiment with different plants to find the ones that work best for you.  

Kings Seeds offers a wide range of seeds and products ideal for year-round gardening. Our collection includes hardy perennial plants, all-season plants, perennial flowers, and herb seeds. We recommend experimenting with year-round gardening using the tips in this article and on our website, head along and explore our collection of seeds and products and follow our social media for more gardening tips and advice. 

 

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