Perennials Resources
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A wide variety of bulbs grow well in Georgia. Most are grown for their flowers and some for their foliage. They are grown as pot plants, in shrub borders, naturalistic plantings and in mass displays. Bulbs offer a certain magic to the landscape virtually unrivaled by other plants.
Bodie V. Pennisi
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Wildflowers not only beautify the landscape but also provide food and shelter for myriad insects, birds, and mammals. Georgia is rich in endemic (belonging in a particular area or environment) species which grow in a wide variety of habitats, from coastal dunes and pine sandhills to savannas, meadows, and forests. Although many species are primarily seen in undisturbed natural habitats, others have adapted to human-created landscapes, such as roadsides and farms, and are frequently seen on road banks and edge habitats. This publication is intended as a visual guide to common herbaceous plants encountered mainly in sunny areas in South Georgia. Although by no means inclusive or extensive, the list contains plants that are easy to recognize and valuable for wildlife.
Bodie V. Pennisi, Jason Schmidt, and Keren Giovengo
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Monarch butterflies travel on air currents and cross more than 3000 miles in the winter to reach their overwintering sites in Mexico. The loss of this habitat, combined with diseases, pesticide use, and loss of larval hosts (i.e., milkweed), are causing a decline in Monarch populations. The larvae need milkweed to develop, and the adults need nectar for migration and survival day-to-day, so more nectar sources and milkweed plants are needed to sustain their migration patterns. This resource can help you select flowering plants and milkweeds that can help conserve the migrating monarchs, especially when planted along farm-reserved lands and urban gardens.
Shimat V. Joseph and William G. Hudson
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This publication is devoted specifically to covering everything you need to know about growing herbaceous perennials, primarily to those that persist from crowns and/or fleshy roots.
Bodie V. Pennisi
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B 790
Geraniums
Geraniums are among the most popular flowering plants grown in the United States. They are easy to grow and can be used in many types of gardens, such as ground beds, planter boxes, hanging baskets and pots. They are ideal for flanking entrance-ways and adding color to border plantings. This publication explains everything you need to know about growing geraniums.
Bodie V. Pennisi
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C 576
Dahlias
Dahlias are among the most spectacular flowers you can grow in your garden. Hundreds of varieties are available, with flower sizes ranging from 1 to 14 inches in diameter. Almost any color except true blue can be produced in Georgia. In exchange for their beauty, dahlias require dedicated care. Most of them need special soil preparation, staking, watering during dry periods, disbudding, and a strict insect control program. Use this resource to successfully grow your own dahlias in Georgia.
Bodie V. Pennisi
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Ornamental plantings can be attractive and beneficial options for the expanse of open ground designated for a septic drainfield. Properly chosen plants help manage moisture and nutrient levels in the soils around the drainfield, and can discourage activities that may cause site compaction and reduce the effectiveness of the system. The drawback is that poor plant choices can create costly maintenance issues, and any septic drainfield repair work could disturb planting areas that you value. By following a few simple guidelines, planting in these areas can be both pretty and practical.
Sheri Dorn
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C 955
Growing Hostas
Hostas are quickly becoming one of the most popular perennial plants grown in our landscapes. Sometimes referred to as plantain lilies, hostas are reliable plants for both shade and partial sun situations. This publication includes variety recommendations.
Bob Westerfield
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This resource helps landscaping professionals understand the basics of perennial plant biology, ideas on design and installation, and information on cultivation and maintenance of perennial beds. Whether in a commercial installation or residential garden, perennial plants can be successfully used to offer more landscaping choices, distinguish your firm from the competition and create a niche for your landscape business. Perennial plants are complex, and it is best to contract or hire a professional landscape architect for the design phase and train knowledgeable staff in proper maintenance later on. It should also serve as a quick guide for the most common and recommended perennials for Georgia. Common-sense tips from a professional landscaper’s perspective are also included.
Bodie V. Pennisi and Sheri Dorn
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