Frost Tender Perennials - Gardeners Tip

Annuals - Perennials

& Tender Perennials

Bulletin #TP1047

Horticultural Observations for Healthier Landscapes

Nurseries are sometimes asked why they carry plants that might not thrive in the local climate. The answer is not tricky, only a bit complex. To discuss this we need to understand the definition of "Annual", "Perennial" and "Tender Perennial", so here goes:

◊ Annuals

◊ Perennials

◊ Tender Perennials

◊ Why Nurseries Carry Tender Perennials

Annuals

To begin with (technically) an "Annual" refers to: "Plants whose life cycle lasts only one year, from seed to blooms to seed." Annuals are frequently available in little starter 'six packs' or in 4 inch pots. Sometimes even in gallon buckets. They are an excellent way to create a great splash of summer or winter color in the garden. Many gardeners desire to purchase annuals, knowing that they will need to re-plant later. The reward from the plants' beauty is considered worth the moderate effort and expense by the customer.

Perennials

Then to define a "Perennial": These plants return year after year, growing in size and stature until they reach their full maturity. Although they live longer, many perennials lose their vigor after 3-4 years, and may need to be replaced. Most perennial plants may be divided to produce new plants, or they may be grown from seeds or cuttings. Perennials are available as 4 inch starters, or in gallon size or even larger pots.
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Tender Perennials

Now to define a "Tender Perennials": "Frost Tender Perennials" are basically perennials that may or may not survive the winter in the zone that they are being sold. A warm winter will likely find them doing just fine, and a cold winter may very likely kill them. Sometimes protection will enable the plant to survive, though not always (this depends on the winter). Many frost tender perennials are very attractive and desirable, and because of this customers still want to try their luck with them.

A 'Heat Tender Perennial" may not survive the summer in the zone they are being sold. Usually heat tender perennials will survive if given adequate afternoon shade and proper irrigation. If these Tender Perennials only survive one season, the reward from the plants beauty is considered worth the risk by the customer. Because of their similarity with annuals, and to keep our signs simple, we may sometimes classify a frost tender perennial as an annual (though not always). With “Heat Tender Perennials” we will advise providing Afternoon shade or Morning Sun as a warning. Many heat tender perennials are very attractive and desirable, and because of this customers still want to try their luck with them. Many have had excellent success with heat tender perennials when they planted and cared for them as we have recommended.
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Why a Quality Nursery Carries Tender Perennials

Because many customers who are willing to take a chance on a plant that might live for only one year, nurseries sell them. They also provide warnings when asked by a customer. There are technical bullentins that indicate these plants are "annual" or "tender perennials". It is strongly recommended that each nursery customer read books like "Sunset Western Gardens", or ask a qualified nursery specialist about any special planting and maitenance requirements for a new plant they do not already know.
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