Our favorite spring-blooming perennials

On this episode of Talk of Iowa, host Charity Nebbe welcomes horticulture experts Cindy Haynes and Aaron Stile from Iowa State University to discuss their favorite spring-blooming perennials. The conversation highlights a range of resilient, pollinator-friendly plants such as lungwort, hellebores, blue stars (Amsonia), pasque flower, columbine, trillium, Dutchman's breeches, and other spring ephemerals. The hosts emphasize the importance of planting native species, especially for supporting early-season pollinators like bees and butterflies. Practical gardening advice is shared throughout, including timing for planting, transplanting, and managing invasive species like honeysuckle and garlic chives. The episode also covers broader topics like windbreak planting, lawn care without chemicals, and crop rotation for vegetable gardens. With a focus on patience, ecological balance, and seasonal awareness, the discussion celebrates the quiet joy of spring’s first blooms and the long-term rewards of thoughtful gardening. Key takeaways include: prioritize native spring ephemerals for pollinator support; plant perennials in early spring when they’re available at nurseries; use the cut-and-treat method with herbicides for invasive woody plants to minimize environmental impact; consider integrating prairie plants into small spaces without fully replacing existing ground covers; and use compost and mulch to improve soil health without synthetic fertilizers. The episode underscores the value of patience in gardening—whether waiting for bluebells to spread or for a redbud tree to leaf out—while encouraging listeners to engage with nature through observation and care.