fall/winter annuals

Question

Can you plant fall/winter annuals on top of dormant perennial beds? I have some new landscaping and have several prepared areas where I’m going to be planting myself. I’m hoping to plant mainly perennials so that I’m not having to replant as much during the year. In the fall/winter when most of these perennials go underground, can I still plant my fall annuals (violas or pansies, etc.) on top of where the perennials were in the bed? Once I pull my annuals up, will the perennials still return in the fall? Or do I need to be very careful to mark where to put my annuals so that they are not directly on top of perennial roots. Alternatively, could I perhaps put some potted plants on top of the beds instead – this wouldn’t apply too much pressure on the perennials underground would it? Thanks! This is our first house so I’m still learning and trying to avoid duplicating my efforts too much!

Answer 1

The answer is no, you should not plant annuals on top of dormant perennials or bulb plants.

Watering your annuals would likely lead to bulb or root rot in the perennial plants.

The same would go for placing heavy pots on tope of perennials. Plants, even when dormant, need oxygen and air circulation.

Here are some articles that will help you get started with your garden project.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/spaces/connecting-the-garden-with-its-surroundings.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/spaces/designing-four-season-gardens.htm