Perennials -

When can I divide perennials?
Most things can be divided either in the early spring or in the fall (until about mid October). Ornamental grassses and Daisies are best done in the spring. If in doubt, divide when the plant is 3-4" high in April or May.

Should I mulch my perennials?
A light mulch, pulled away from the crowns of the plants, can be used once the ground has warmed thoroughly in the spring. Buckwheat or Cocoa hulls are a better mulch for perennials than the heavier bark mulches.

How often do I fertilize my perennials?
Perennials need only a light feeding (5-10-5 or a balanced organic fertilizer) in the spring. If you
use compost or manure on your beds in the fall, yur plants may not need any extra fertilizer. A few things, like Delphiniums, can benefit from an additional feeding after the first bloom to promote regrowth/rebloom.

General -

How can I tell if a plant is hardy in this area?
The Blackstone Valley is generally cosidered to be in USDA Hardiness Zone 5. This means that
the average winter temperature does not go below -20 degrees. The higher to Zone number, the warmer the average winter temperature is. If a plant is rated as hardy in Zone 7 or 8, our winters are too cold to insure its survivial.