Tip of the Week: Choose Perennials by Shape

When adding new perennials to an existing bed, narrow your choices by considering shape.

Most herbaceous perennials arrive in the garden as additions to existing plantings, rather than as part of a new scheme. When choosing a plant for a particular position, think about the shapes the scheme lacks.

For example, if the bed already includes mostly rounded plants, consider adding a tall, narrow plant or a flat groundcover.

Remember, a good combination of plant forms is just as important as a clever color combination.

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