

Tips & Techniques
Using Shrubs in the Perennial Border

Kalm St. Johnswort (Hypericum kalmianum)
St. Johnswort has yellow flowers that bloom in midsummer. Its narrow leaves are blue-green. Plant it in full sun for best flowering.
Creating a pleasing border in our midwestern climate requires more than flowering herbaceous plants. Small shrubs offer a structure and size that most perennials cannot match in this region's short growing season. When the perennials vanish for the winter, shrubs provide a welcome presence.
Some of the best border choices are smaller shrubs with twiggy, thinner branches that fit nicely with the soft, loose feel of a perennial garden; summer bloomers that contribute to the sequence of blooming plants; and shrubs with variegated or colorful leaves.