Contents
Acknowledgments
Foreword
Preface
Introduction
Section I: Evaluating Plants for Their Garden Impact
Foliage—Shape, Size, Texture, and Color
Flowers — Shape, Size, Texture, and Color
Bark and Stems
Seedpods, Berries, and Other Fruit
Architectural Shape and Form
Motion
Fragrance
Section II: Evaluating Plants for Their Utility and Dependability
Early-Season Value and Fall Beauty
Winter Display
Bloom Time and Length of Bloom
Attractiveness to Pollinators
Size and Scale
Behavior in the Garden
Vigor and Suitability
Ease of Maintenance
Do You Love It?
Section III: Determining Whether a Plant Will Thrive in Your Garden
Understanding Your Growing Environment
Cultural Requirements
Section IV: At the Nursery
Choosing a Nursery—If You Have a Choice
Local versus Online
Selecting the “Best of the Best” Plants for Your Garden
Other Shopping Tips
Giving Late Bloomers a Second Look
Section V: Cool Plants for Cold Climates
Annuals
Bulbs
Grasses
Herbaceous Perennials
Shrubs
Trees
Vines
Glossary
Materials and Works Consulted
Index