University of Illinois Extension
Stepping Stones to Perennial Garden Design
Perennial Selection
Starting the Process
From the vast array of plant references select two or three basic sources. This will help simplify the process. As you research your plant selections compare similarities described by the different authors and determine how you can expect them to perform for you. If possible visit botanical gardens or public gardens to see first-hand how the plants grow and to get ideas for your garden. Here you can touch the plant, smell the flowers and see the foliage, and rate the salmon flower color to your own tastes.
