Perennials are typically more expensive, however less work in the long run. Keep in mind what zone the Perennials are recommended for. Morris County is in Zone 7 which means plants rated for Zone 7 or higher will survive and come back the following year. Plants that are labeled as a Perennial may be for Zone 6, which, in effect, makes them an Annual in Morris County, unless we have an unusually warm winter. If in doubt, your local nursery will be able to guide you to which plants are best.
Annuals can give you large splashes of color for a relatively small investment. When planning out what to plant where, a good rule of thumb is to group several of the same plants together and then flow into another grouping of plants in a different color. To further give your front yard an inviting effect, trim back over grown bushes so they are not covering windows and give your lawn a fertilizer treatment.
There are several nurseries in the Chatham/Madison/Harding area- Coviello Brothers and J&M Home and Garden in Madison, The Farm in Green Village and the Great Swamp Nursery on the border of Meyersville and Gillette. I frequent The Farm and find their helpful staff to be extremely knowledgeable. They also offer an extensive array of plants, trees, bushes and ornamental items.
If this task seems too daunting, all of the nurseries listed above can tackle the jobs for you. Otherwise, happy planting!
Posted by:
Nadine Gelinas-Coffey
