By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has launched its 2025 Garden Calendar, themed “Perennial Beauty.”
This calendar highlights the beauty and versatility of perennials, offering gardening tips and seasonal reminders throughout the year. With perennials suitable for various garden spots—whether sunny or shaded, and moist or dry—this calendar celebrates their role as vibrant, enduring garden staples.
Aaron Steil, consumer horticulture specialist at ISU Extension and Outreach, shared that the theme was chosen because of the popularity of perennials among home gardeners.
“Perennials are often the first colorful plants that home gardeners add to their landscapes,” Steil explained. “These plants return each spring, bringing blooms from early spring to fall and requiring minimal maintenance. With a mix of perennials, gardeners can enjoy year-round color.”
This calendar is a collaborative effort by ISU horticulturists and the Agriculture and Natural Resources communications team.
Each month features a unique perennial plant image, along with tree care advice, seasonal gardening reminders, and relevant ISU extension resources. Steil remarked that, surprisingly, this is the first time perennials have been the focus in the 40+ years of calendar production by ISU Extension.
To create a high-quality product, planning for each calendar begins a year in advance. Once the theme is set, the team determines monthly gardening tips to align with seasonal activities.
For instance, May includes guidance on planting perennials, as it’s a prime time for new additions in Iowa gardens. The calendar also includes practical tips spread evenly across the year.
This calendar makes a thoughtful gift for gardeners of all skill levels. It even serves as a garden journal, providing space to jot down observations throughout the year. “It’s helpful to keep notes about your garden’s progress,” Steil said. “These notes can guide future gardening decisions.”
Available for $9 from the Extension Store, the ISU Garden Calendar is a valuable tool for anyone looking to cultivate a beautiful, thriving garden.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education