Best Performing Plants From Our Gardens This Year
When the flurry of fall cleanup is done, it’s fun to reflect on the triumphs of the growing season before winter sets in. In this episode, Danielle, Carol, and their guest dish the dirt on plants with cool new colors, outstanding vigor, and other noteworthy traits that earned them a spot on the list of best-performing plants. Which of their favorites might find their way into your garden next year?
Expert: Kristin Beane Sullivan is the executive editor of Garden Gate, Fine Gardening, and Horticulture.
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Danielle’s Best Performing Plant Picks
- ‘Sugar Kisses’ goldenrod (Solidago ‘Sugar Kisses’, Zones 5-8)
- ‘Vivid Violet’ cuphea (Cuphea procumbens ‘Vivid Violet’, Zones 9-11)
- Berry White™ panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata ‘Renba’, Zones 3-9)
- ‘Prairie Princess’ ironweed (Vernonia ‘Prairie Princess’, Zones 4-9)
Carol’s Best Performing Plant Picks
- ‘Burgundy’ African geranium (Pelargonium x sidoides ‘Burgundy’, Zones 9–11)
- ‘Flying Dragon’ hardy orange (Citrus trifoliata ‘Flying Dragon’, Zones 5–9)
- ‘Alexandria’ alpine strawberry (Fragaria vesca ‘Alexandria’, Zones 5–8)
- ‘Tangerine Sorbet’ dahlia (Dahlia ‘Tangerine Sorbet’, Zones 8–10)
Kristin’s Best Performing Plant Picks for 2025
- ‘Totally Tangerine’ geum (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’, Zones 5-7)
- Korean feather reed grass (Calamagrostis brachytricha, Zones 4-7)
- Ray™ Shadow petunia (Petunia x hybrida ‘Ray Shadow’, Zones 10-11)
All photos from the contributors unless noted otherwise.
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Ho-Mi Digger – Korean Triangle Blade
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Versatile Tool: The Easy Digger Korean Triangle Blade Ho Mi Ho-mi is a versatile gardening tool designed for leveling and digging in home and garden settings. Efficient Design: Its unique triangular blade shape allows for easy soil penetration and efficient leveling of garden beds or landscaping areas. Durable Construction: Crafted with sturdy materials, this tool ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
Ergonomic Handle: The comfortable handle provides a secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. Compact Size: Its compact design makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and store when not in use.
ARS Telescoping Long Reach Pruner
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Telescopes from 4 to 7′. Cut and Hold (160) Blades. Drop forged blades for unsurpassed long lasting sharpness. Lightweight, 2.3 lbs., for continued use. Perfectly balanced for easy pruning.
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
– Slim, lightweight design, is made with toxin-free polyurethane and utilizes industrial grade, lead-free fittings
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