Collection

Favorite Plants Improved for Your Region

Fine Gardening – Issue 204
Photos (clockwise from top left): ‘Red Pygmy’ flowering dogwood, courtesy of Missouri Botanical Garden; ‘Blue Heron’ corydalis, courtesy of Terra Nova Nurseries Inc.; ‘Shimmer’ evening primrose, millettephotomedia.com; Phenomenal® Lavender, millettephotomedia.com

In Paul Westervelt’s article on perennial upgrades, he explains the benefit of stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new versions of tried-and-true plants:

“After whiffing a few times, consumers and pros alike may be tempted simply to stick to time-tested varieties. But some of those varieties aren’t what they once were. In other cases, they’ve been upgraded in meaningful ways that improve the gardening experience—better habit, longer bloom time, enhanced disease resistance. Before you swear off new plants forever, consider these classic upgrades.”

To help you find plants that won’t make you say, “Ugh, I should have just stuck with the original,” we asked regional experts to pick four improved versions of fan-favorite plants. All of these plants have at least one of the characteristics that Paul lists above—better habit, longer bloom time, enhanced disease resistance—and sometimes all three. Find your region below and discover some new plants to fall in love with. And for even more improved classics, check out Paul’s article 8 Better Perennial Plants to Grow Over the Classic Varieties.

 

 

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

RAINPOINT Sprinkler Timer with Brass Swivel

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

- Pure brass water inlet and metal thread can withstand up to 116psi.
- Built-in metal filter gaskets can prevent sediment and other larger particles
- Through the Sprinkler Timer program, you can set the start time, watering duration, and watering frequency
Buy at Amazon

Dramm Revolution Adjustable 9-Pattern Metal Hose Nozzle

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

- 15 x 10 x 7 inches
- Ergonomic insulated grip
- Maximum pressure of 90 PSI
- Fully adjustable spray pattern
- No trigger lock
Buy at Amazon

Morvat Heavy Duty Brass Y-Valve

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

- Instantly create two tap outlets with this ultra-durable Y hose splitter. The dual-valve design features built-in shut-off valves.
- Fitted with US Standard NH 3/4" threads for use with most water source fittings
- Screw the 2 way splitter adapter by hand or wrench with the updated hexagonal top connection. The 360° rotatable swivel connection attaches to any water source.
Buy at Amazon
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