Why and when?
Plants in borders are often planted well apart which provides
little mutual support. Consequently they require additional
propping. Nutrient-rich soils exacerbate the problem, encouraging
soft growth, and modern hybrids are developed with larger
flowers, greater vigour and increased height in mind, making
them top-heavy and more likely to fall over.
Stakes should ideally be in place in spring, before plants have made too much growth. Later staking is difficult as plant growth is more advanced and can easily be damaged.
Materials
Bamboo canes and metal rods and frames (plastic-coated if
preferred) are widely available. Grid or grow-through supports
are also available, along with plastic and galvanised meshes.
Birch or hazel pea sticks and rods make a more natural framework.
3-ply
soft twine is suitable for small plants, but 5-ply soft twine
is required for larger specimens. Don't tie-in plants too
rigidly; they should be able to move in the wind. Rubber clips
are available for holding supports together. Cane tops should
be covered with rubber eye protectors.
Method
Upright clump-forming perennials (e.g. Delphinium)
can have galvanised wire-mesh cylinders placed over them.
Bushy perennials such as Campanula and
Helenium grow well in simple circular
frames, and top-heavy plants such as herbaceous Paeonia
and Dahlia are well-suited to grid supports.
Pea-sticks are useful for both front- (e.g. Penstemon)
and back-border plants (e.g. Inula racemosa),
whereas tall obelisks are useful for roses, Clematis
and Lathyrus. Support heavier stems
of large perennials, such as Crambe cordifolia
with canes or rods.
Further information
Search the RHS
Plant Finder online for suppliers of perennials.
Search the RHS Event Finder for practical demonstrations and lectures on this topic in your area.
The Delphinium Society: For details telephone the Secretary of the Delphinium Society on 023 8025 3624 or visit the Delphinium Society website.