Perennials: cuttings

Epimediums are slow to establish, but can form a hardy groundcover for moist, partially shaded locations and will grow in sites where low soil fertility limits other perennials. Cut foliage low to the ground in early spring to keep it from hiding the flowers. 

Urena and Abutilon. These are less important vegetable fibers of a jute-like nature. Urena lobata (Cadillo) of the mallow family (Malvaceae) is a perennial that grows in Zaire and Brazil to a height of 4—5 m with stems 10—18 mm in diameter. Because of a lignified base, the stems are cut 20 cm above the ground. The plants are defoflated in the field and retted similarly to jute and kenaf. The retted material is stripped and washed and, in some cases. 

For the first time since the founding of the PRC, the improvement of the quality of life for her citizens has been given such high priority. It even edged out defense spending (a perennial favorite) which suffered a cut of 2 Billion, or 13 percent. 

Holes can be cut to allow planting through the membrane as appropriate. Membranes may be covered with a loose mulch, to hold them in place, extend their life span, and improve their appearance. A mulch membrane must be permeable, to allow air and water into the soil, unless it is only to be kept in place for a few months. However, to suppress the more vigorous perennial weeds (see also pp.80-81), the membrane may need to be in place for several years while there are several biodegradable choices of membrane material, a nonbiodegradable material is the more practical option in such situations. 

The most effective time to cut, to weaken the roots of perennials and avoid seeding. Is when flower buds are just beginning to show. Scything Is a quiet, pollution-free option, though it does require practice and the scythe blade must be kept sharp. The alternative Is an electric- or gas-powered line trimmer or, on level ground, a lawnmower. 

Perennials that do not normally survive a cold winter are usually classified, with annuals, as bedding plants, as they too need to be replanted annually. Plants such as pelargoniums or felicia can be overwintered in a frost-free greenhouse or a cool basement, cutting them back and then repotting at the start of spring. 

Herbaceous perennials can be planted in beds or borders by themselves, or mixed with bedding plants, shrubs, or roses. They can be placed in bold groups, lingering drifts, or small clumps, depending on the plant, its character, and the desired effect. Many flowers can be cut for flower-arranging, avoiding the high pesticide input and air miles associated with most commercial cut flowers. 

A hardy perennial, with purple drumstick flowers attractive to bees. Both leaves and flowers can be used. Prefers sun and moist, fertile soil, but tolerates shade and most soils. Cut back to 2 In (5 cm) after flowering to promote fresh growth. Divide established clumps In spring or fall. 

Always remove flowers if you want to harvest the maximum quantity and quality of leaves. Pinch out growing tips to encourage bushy growth, and cut out any plain shoots on variegated herbs. Established clumps of perennials are best divided (see p.l93) every two to three years, in spring or fall. 

Roots should be collected only after the herb itself has fallen back for the season, no matter whether the plant is annual, biennial or perennial. Barks should never be taken from the living tree, but only in the spring time, from a tree that has been cut down the previous autumn. If naturally and carefully dried, the therapeutic virtues will remain for long periods. 

Figure 3.13 Dandelion is a simple perennial that can reproduce by seed or by root cutting.

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