Why Perennials?! Unlike annuals that die off in the fall and require gardeners to re-plant them every year, perennials 'hibernate' and come back every year! In fact, you may have heard of the adage, "The first year, they sleep, the second year they creep, and the third year, they leap!" This means they establish their roots the first year, grow a bit the second year, and grow even more the following year, helping to fill in your garden!