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Re: [GWL]: Annuals vs. Perennials

Having worked in and designed gardens where money is rarely the limiting factor (yes, I've been very lucky) we take the time to design a garden so it lasts for years.  And there's no reason why even the smallest of gardens on the tightest of budgets can't be done this way.  The backbone of these gardens are the perennials..and that's where the planning comes in.  If you really want a magnificent garden and don't want to have to do it over and over every single year...the perennials are the heart and soul.  Over time you add, subtract and yes...even multiply...another joy of perennials.  You learn that there are thousands of perennials to be used...and only a very smaller percentage of annuals.  You learn that the perennials (at least in zones 7 and lower) can brighten a garden from March all the way through October...but it's a learning process and not a good prospect for those needing instant gratification.
   Yes, we do use annuals...but only as fillers and many as winter hardy annuals or self seeders.  Many are grown in situ and rarely do we use commercially grown cell packs...though we don't count them out.
   And now, in addition to the annuals and perennials I'm finding dozens of tropicals showing up in our gardens.  Once limited to greenhouses they are now grown in the gardens as tender perennials and much to my delight we're even seeing some being sold in garden centers as cell packs...but not at the mass marketers...only at the good local garden centers who keep up on trends, culture their contacts and seek out growers who carve out niche markets.

Andrew Messinger
The Hampton Gardener
    
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