Honey Sharp: Native Plants

To plan a successful flower garden, Honey Sharp‘s rule is to first seek out native plants; they create a link between your garden and local natural habitats. To discover species that might thrive in your garden, Honey suggests visiting nature preserves and botanical gardens that showcase regional plants. “Many woodland perennials are among my favorite spring blooms,” she notes.

Also, take photos of your garden to use as planting references, helping you keep track of what’s growing where. Photos of your spring garden are especially valuable when fall comes around and you’re deciding what to plant or divide. “These photos, plus other notes I take about the garden, are wonderful design tools,” Honey says.