G A R D E N E R ’ S C O R N E RPutting a Perennial Garden toBed By Your NameA certain sense of peace descends when a perennial garden is put to bed for the season. The plants are safely tucked in against the elements, and the garden is ready to welcome the first signs of life. When the work is done, you can sit back and anticipate the bright blooms of spring. Many gardeners are uncertain of how to close a perennial garden. This week’s column demystifies the process.Clean upDebris that is left on top of soil invites garden pests to lay their eggs and spend the winter. Garden clean up can be a gradual process—plants will deteriorate at different rates, allowing you to do a little bit each week. 1. Edge beds and borders and remove stakes and other plant supports.2. Dig and divide irises, daylilies, and other early bloomers.3. Cut back plants when foliage starts to deteriorate. 4. Rake all debris out of the garden and pull any weeds that remain.Plant perennialsFall is the perfect time to plant perennials! The warm, sunny days and cool nights provideoptimal conditions for new root growth. 1. Dig deeply and enhance soil with organic matter.2. Use a good starter fertilizer to speed up new root growth.3. Untangle the roots of new plants before planting them.4. Water deeply after planting as the weather dictates.Add compost Organic matter is the key ingredient to healthy soil. If you take care of the soil, your plants will become strong and disease resistant. 1. Use an iron rake to loosen the top few inches of soil.2. Spread a one to two inch layer of compost over the entire garden.3. Refrain from stepping on the area and compacting the soil.To mulch or not to mulch?Winter protection for perennial beds can only help plants survive the winter. Here’s what works and what doesn’t:1. Always apply mulch after the ground is frozen.2. Never apply generic hay because is contains billions of weed seeds. Also, whole leaves and bark mulch hold too much moisture.3. Straw and salt marsh hay are excellent choices for