University of Florida

Do Your Plant Homework

Before you buy new plants, save time, money, and frustration by doing your homework.

Always check the plant’s hardiness zones. This will tell you what type of climate it can tolerate.

Find out how big the plant will get, and think about whether you have room for it. You don’t want to plant a large-canopy tree like a live oak right next to your house.

Do some research on the plant’s care requirements. If it needs regular pruning and is a pest magnet, you may have to give it more attention than you have time for.

And finally, consider how the plant fits into your design scheme. By spending a little extra time now, you’ll be sure to choose a plant that will thrive in your garden.

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