ANNUALS
Introduction
Plant Selection
Hardy, Semi-hardy, Tender
Heat and Drought Tolerant
Shade Tolerant Annuals
Fragrant Annuals
Ornamental Foliage
Climbing Annuals
Hanging Baskets
Cut Flowers
Planting
Starting Plants
Maintenance
Insects Problems
Disease Problems

PERENNIALS
Introduction
Plant Selection
Plant Dimension Characteristics
Specific Site Conditions
Classification by Bloom Periods
Perennials That Attract Wildlife
Planting
Starting Plants
Care and Maintenance

BULB FLOWERS
Introduction
Plant Selection
Planting Bulbs
Purchasing Bulbs
Care & Maintenance

ORNAMENTAL GRASSES
Introduction
Plant Selection
Mature Size
Grasses for Specific Uses
Planting Ornamental Grasses
Obtaining Plants
Care & Maintenance

CONTAINER GARDENING
Introduction
Container Selection
Soil Mixes
Container Placement
Plant Selection
Plant Care

Plant Selection

Selection of the proper plant species and varieties will determine ultimate success with perennials. One critical characteristic is the ability to survive Idaho’s winters. Also, care must also be taken to choose plants that complement their surroundings and are suitable for the intended purpose. Perennials planted within a single bed should have similar growth and care requirements.

Globe Thistle is an attractive tall perennial

Perennials can be categorized into groups, based on growth characteristics or intended use, making selection easier. Useful groupings include plant dimensions, site conditions (e.g. tolerant of drought, moist, or shade conditions), bloom period, and attractiveness to birds and butterflies.

For additional information, including pictures, designed to provide assistance with selection of perennials, pursue the following links:

Leonard Perry, University of Vermont maintains an outstanding site that provides not only pictures of numerous perennial flowers, but also extensive information on adaptation, landscape uses, pest problems, and maintenance tips. See this site at: http://pss.uvm.edu/ppp/perpix.htm.

Heritage Perennials maintains an extensive searchable database of perennials, complete with pictures of many varieties, at: http://www.perennials.com/index.html.

Perennial Resource, another commercial site also maintains a database of pictures and varieties, at: http://www.perennialresource.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=plants.main.

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