Choosing Garden Plants: Types and Design Roles

Nurseries overwhelm with choices. Understanding plant categories clarifies selection for your design goals.

Plant Categories and Uses

Roses: Diverse varieties for every climate. Most need full sun; white roses prefer afternoon shade.

Annuals/biennials: Seasonal color for focal accents. Change yearly for fresh designs.

Perennials: Return yearly. Stagger bloom times for continuous flowers.

Grasses and vines: Edging, weed suppression, vertical interest on structures.

Edibles: Fruit/vegetable plants—many decorative when flowering.

Shrubs: Structural backbone, screening, seasonal interest.

Mix categories for layered, resilient, beautiful gardens.