I can’t resist a bargain, and while shopping at Lowe’s last week, I headed to the half off rack at the back of the lot. Perennials were on sale $3.00. I like to find plants that I don’t have and ones that will multiply and fill in the large spaces of my yard. The obedient plant caught my eye, and I chose two. I don’t usually choose white flowers, because I don’t like how they turn brown after a rain. But the tall spiky flowers which resemble snapdragons and the fact that they bloom in late summer and fall, convinced me to put two in my buggy.
I planted one of my plants in the herb garden beside the spiderwort. The white of the obedient plant and the purple of the spiderwort will give some color to an otherwise green area.
The obedient plant gets its name because the stems will stay in place when bent. But, it’s not very obedient. It easily spreads. You can plant it in a pot with holes, and sink it into the ground to keep it from spreading, or easily dividing the rhizomes to other areas of the garden. I want mine to spread, and to be able to use in other areas, so mine went directly into the garden.
You can plant it in either sun or light shade which is a perfect place in my herb garden. The plant reaches 2-4 feet. Next spring I should be able to relocate some of the plants.
Buying plants at the end of the year, and choosing plants that you can divide and transplant elsewhere is a good idea to help you grow your garden. But, choose plants that are not too distressed. I had to go through several plants before I found two that looked healthy and had new growth. Plant soon after you take it home, because most plants at the end of the season have become root bound. Water for the next few days until they become established.
I hope you will consider “rescuing” a few plants from the sale section. I don’t think you will be disappointed. With a little care, you will have plants you can enjoy for years.
Karen
