Types of Perennials Available
Our exotics section carries year-round favourites like Daises, Heliotrope, Hebe, Lambs ear and Pentas. In the beating heart of the nursery you’ll find our seasonal colour tables, here you will find Spring/Summer stars like Sunpatiens, Inca Lilles, Bubble-gum Petunias and Ivy geraniums and Autumn winners like Nemesia, Osteospermum & Scabiosa. Shade loving Perennials include Begonia, New Guinee Impatiens & Hosta & Fuchsia. For your larger flowering plants in the shadier areas, we stock Hydrangeas, Gardenia, Camellia, Azaleas and Murrya not forgetting Brunsfelsias. Hibiscus, Raphiolepsis, Abelia & Escallonia will give you height and longevity in the Sunny spots.
Perennial Plant Care
Light:
Perennials in Cape Town thrive in full sun (6-8 hours daily) for robust growth and abundant blooms. Varieties like Lavender, Salvia and Daisies prefer plenty of sunlight. However, some perennials such as Hostas and Hellebores and Fuchsia tolerate partial shade and perform well in areas with less direct sunlight.
Watering:
Check soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Perennials prefer well-drained soil, so ensure that pots or garden beds have good drainage. Water deeply but less frequently, and always water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal diseases.
Temperature:
Perennials in Cape Town grow best in temperatures between 18-24°C. Most varieties are well-adapted to the region’s climate but may require some shade or shelter during extreme summer heat to prevent wilting or scorching.
Fertilising:
Use a balanced fertiliser for perennials during the growing season (spring and summer), following the recommended dosage. Apply every 4-6 weeks to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowers. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning:
Prune perennials regularly by removing dead or damaged growth to encourage new, healthy shoots. Deadheading spent flowers will also promote more blooms. For certain perennials like Salvias and Plectranthus, cut back the plant after the flowering season to keep it tidy and stimulate new growth.
Pest Management:
Monitor perennials for pests such as Aphids, Caterpillar, Beetles, Snails, and Mealybugs, which can damage foliage and flowers. Treat infestations promptly with Organic Insecticides, or natural remedies like Garlic Spray. Regular inspection and early intervention will keep your perennials healthy and pest-free.
Perennial Plants FAQs
Here is a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) list specifically tailored for perennials at Ferndale Nursery in Cape Town, South Africa:
What are perennials and how do they differ from annuals?
Perennials are plants that live for more than two years, typically flowering each season. They go dormant in winter and return in spring. In contrast, annuals complete their life cycle in one season and need to be replanted each year.
What are the best perennial plants for Cape Town’s climate?
Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best perennials for this climate include Agapanthus, Salvia, Geraniums, Lavender, Osteospermum, Heliotrope, Hebe and Gaura, as they thrive in the sun and tolerate dry conditions.
When is the best time to plant perennials in Cape Town?
The ideal time to plant perennials in Cape Town is early autumn (March-April) or spring (September-November). Planting in these seasons allows the plants to establish roots before the extreme heat of summer or the cold of winter.
How often should I water perennials?
Once established, most perennials need moderate watering (3 times a week) However, during the first few months after planting, they require regular watering to establish their roots. Water infrequently in winter only when rainfall is inadequate.
Do perennials need to be fertilised?
Yes, perennials benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy growth. Some perennials may also benefit from a feed with higher potassium content to encourage blooming. Avoid over-fertilising with Nitrogen, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
How do I care for perennials during the Cape Town winter?
Many perennials go dormant during Cape Town’s cooler months. For those that don’t, water less frequently, as rainfall usually provides enough moisture. Mulch around the base of plants to protect roots from cold and cut back dead or damaged growth in early spring to encourage new growth.
Do perennials need to be pruned?
Yes, pruning is essential for many perennials. Prune back dead stems after blooming, especially for plants like Lavender and Salvia, to promote new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. Established perennials/flowering shrubs, benefit from cutting back in the late autumn or winter to encourage healthy spring growth.
Can I divide my perennials?
Yes, many perennials can be divided to encourage better growth and to propagate new plants. The best time to divide perennials is in autumn or early spring, when the plants are not actively blooming. Agapanthus, Clivia and Irises are popular perennials that can be divided.
How do I deal with pests or diseases on perennials?
Perennials can be susceptible to pests like aphids, snails, and mealybugs, as well as fungal diseases. Regularly inspect your plants and remove pests by hand or treat with an organic pesticide. Use a fungicide if fungal issues like powdery mildew occur, especially in damp conditions.
What are some low-maintenance perennials?
If you’re looking for low-maintenance options, try Agapanthus, Lamb’s ear (Stachys), Osteospermum, Gazania, or Scabiosa. These varieties are hardy, drought-tolerant, and require little attention once established.
How do I know if a perennial will survive in my garden?
Consider your garden’s specific conditions—such as soil type, sun exposure, and water availability—before choosing a perennial. Some perennials prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial or full shade. At Ferndale Nursery, staff can help you choose perennials suited to your garden’s microclimate.
How long do perennials live?
Perennials can live for many years, with some lasting for decades if well-maintained. However, their life span can vary depending on the species. For example, Lavender may last 3–5 years, while Agapanthus can thrive for 10–20 years or more.
How can I increase the flower production of my perennials?
To increase flower production, make sure your perennials receive enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Deadheading spent blooms encourages more flowers. For some perennials, cutting them back after flowering can encourage a second flush
Can I plant perennials in containers?
Yes, many perennials, such as Lavender, Geraniums, and Salvia, can be grown in containers. Ensure the pots have adequate drainage and are large enough to accommodate the root systems. Regular watering and fertilising are also essential for container-grown perennials.
Are perennials good for attracting wildlife?
Yes, many perennials are great for attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. Plants like Lavender, Buddleias, Salvia and Gaura are excellent choices for pollinator-friendly gardens.
Can perennials be grown in Cape Town’s coastal areas?
Yes, Cape Town’s coastal areas can be a bit more challenging due to salt-laden winds and sandy soils, but many perennials, such as Agapanthus, Lavander, Westringia and Escallonia, thrive in coastal conditions. Be sure to select varieties that are salt-tolerant and well-suited for coastal gardens.
Do perennials require specific soil conditions?
Most perennials prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral ph. Some, like Proteas, prefer acidic soil, while others, like Lavender, prefer slightly alkaline soil. Improving your soil with compost or organic matter can help most perennials thrive.
What perennials bloom in winter?
In Cape Town’s mild winters, some perennials bloom in cooler weather. Plectranthus, Camellias, Primula, Azalea Chasmanthe and Erica (heathers) are great winter bloomers. Consider planting these varieties for year-round interest in your garden.
These FAQs are designed to guide customers at Ferndale Nursery in selecting, caring for, and maintaining perennials in Cape Town’s unique climate. The nursery staff can provide expert advice and recommendations based on your specific needs and garden conditions.
