Herbaceous Perennial Production

The State of Michigan Agriculture: 2025

Published on April 9, 2025
This analysis outlines the state of Michigan agriculture in 2025.
Purpling of leaves

Published on January 8, 2021
There are many specialty crops that naturally have red, purple or almost black foliage, while others turn those colors when conditions are unfavorable. This article briefly reviews the factors that influence the purpling of leaves.
How to produce poor-quality floriculture crops

Published on September 11, 2020
Sometimes growers unknowingly follow practices that can contribute to, or directly cause, a reduction in crop quality. While there can be some tradeoffs between crop quality and crop timing and/or input costs, these practices should be avoided.
Using Data Loggers in the Greenhouse

Published on April 6, 2018
Most growers do not have extensive environmental control systems that keep historical records of the greenhouse conditions. In these cases, you will find that using a data logger will allow you to easily see past and present environmental data.
Keeping in Front of the Curve: pH and EC Monitoring

Published on January 12, 2018
In-house monitoring of the growing substrate pH and EC will help to avoid nutrient disorders and shrinkage. Setting up a monitoring system is easy and the steps are highlighted in this article.
Asclepias tuberosa - Butterfly weed

Published on April 12, 2017
Several species of milkweed, or asclepias, are native to North America, and this year the Perennial Plant Association has chosen one of them as Perennial Plant of the Year: Asclepias tuberosa.
Juvenility in perennials

Published on June 29, 2016
Plants started by seed have a juvenile phase and they must develop to a certain maturity before they attain the capacity to flower.
Controlling flowering of Echinacea

Published on February 8, 2013
Research-based information is presented about how to control the flowering of purple coneflower (Echinacea) for commercial production.
Long-day perennials

Published on March 12, 2012
One of the major flowering triggers of herbaceous perennials is exposure to long days (short nights). Learn which crops have this response, and tips on how to deliver long-day lighting..
Grow perennials with your annuals

Published on December 29, 2010
Research at Michigan State University has determined the flowering requirements of more than 600 cultivars and species of herbaceous perennials.