Top 5+ fast-growing perennials you can plant in April for a colorful yard in no time
These early spring perennials will spruce up your yard.
Having a pretty yard filled with a bounty of colorful blooms and splendid foliage is one thing. Tending to it? That’s quite another. If there’s one type of plant that takes out much of the guesswork and manual labor, though, it’s perennials. You can do one better by prioritizing low-maintenance perennials, and we’ve got a handful for you to choose from that are ready to plant as early as April.
Meet Our Expert
- Gene Caballero, gardening expert and co-founder of GreenPal
- Ron Finley, gardener and host of Ron Finley Teaches Gardening on Masterclass
- Paula Ramirez, owner of Gardino Nursery and Palmstreet expert
01 of 05
Rainbow Rhythm Daylilies
For a splashy display of colors in a hurry, look no further than the Rainbow Rhythm daylily (Hemerocallis). You can plant these easy-to-grow perennials as early as April, and they’ll produce foliage within the first few weeks of planting. Within six to eight weeks, the fiery pink, red, and yellow blooms arrive.
“Daylilies stay happy easily and require very little maintenance other than watering, and they are tough and adaptable in most weather conditions,” says Paula Ramirez, owner of Gardino Nursery and Palmstreet expert. “They multiply easily each year, live long, and are easy to share with others.” They prefer at least six hours of sun, and are drought-tolerant.
02 of 05
Rosemary
You’ve got to love a perennial that does its own thing, smells incredible, and is a kitchen hero. Rosemary’s also ready for planting (even from seed) as soon as the threat of the last frost passes, making it perfect for impatient gardeners ready to flex their green thumb.
“Rosemary is probably one of the hardier varieties of herbs because the stems are like bushes,” says Ron Finley, gardener and host of Ron Finley Teaches Gardening on Masterclass. “Also, you can't kill these if you try hard enough. I've had rosemary in my garden for the last 10 years—the same plant. Even a sprig of this in water is a beautiful thing.”
Rosemary will grow into a shrub when space allows, but it also thrives in containers for those with smaller spaces.
03 of 05
Hostas
Hostas are lush, fast-growing perennials with a remarkable ability to triple in size within a single year. They’re also famously easy, making them a great option for newbies or those who just don’t want to be bothered (while still reaping the blooming bounty). And like the other perennials on this list, they get a green light for planting as early as April.
Gene Caballero, gardening expert and co-founder of GreenPal, says they do especially well in rich soil, and they’re great for shadier spots in your yard or garden. (Too much sun can scorch their leaves.) Pruning is optional, but Caballero recommends trimming any damaged leaves to keep things pretty. Because they fill out so quickly and lushly, you’ll want to divide them every few years.
04 of 05
Black-Eyed Susan
Known for their sunny yellow petals and brownish-black centers, this low-maintenance perennial really starts taking off in the early spring months. Better yet, their cheerful blooms keep coming all the way through fall.
“Most varieties grow around two feet tall and, like annual flowers, many will bloom the first year from seed,” Ramirez says. “These luscious flowers can be grown in full sun and well-drained soil but will tolerate poor soil, drought, and even some shade.”
After establishment, black-eyed Susans require minimal care. Note that this perennial technically only lasts a few years, but it's known for being a prolific self-seeder that consistently regenerates new plants.
05 of 05
Salvia
Time and again, salvia comes up as one of the easiest perennials to grow. And to add another jewel to its crown, you can plop it in the ground in April and enjoy its purple and blue plumes from spring into early summer. Salvia produces blooms about four to six weeks after it's been planted, depending on the variety and temperatures.
“This big family of gorgeous bloomers includes varieties that are tough enough to withstand cold but can also thrive in heat and humidity,” Ramirez says. “As a bonus, many salvia varieties develop deep blue flowers, adding a unique pop of color to any garden.”
Plus, their drought-resistant and low-maintenance nature makes them a perfect choice for newbie gardeners or those who want something a little more "hands-off."
