How to Find the Best Outdoor Plants for Your Garden

We encourage you to buy plants locally, but if they're not available, you can order Proven Winners^® plants online and have them shipped right to your door.

Whether you’re planning a new garden, updating your yard, or refreshing your containers, choosing the right plants is key to success. These resources will walk you through how to evaluate your space, define your goals, and make confident plant selections that match your vision and growing conditions.

START SMART: PLAN BEFORE YOU SHOP

It’s easy to get carried away at the garden center. But without a plan, you might end up regretting your plant choices. Take time to assess your needs, understand your light conditions, and consider things like color, size, and the role each plant will play. That way, you can shop with confidence.

3 Things to Know Before Purchasing New Plants
What to look for in a healthy plant, where to shop, and how to avoid common buying mistakes.

Right Plant, Right Place
Match each plant to your garden’s sunlight, soil, and space needs—so you’re not stuck replacing it later.

Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe
A fun method for narrowing down choices when you're feeling overwhelmed.

Discover Easy Plants for Every Garden
Explore low-maintenance outdoor plants that grow well in a range of settings, including drought-tolerant picks and lush green foliage that stays vibrant with little effort.

What Does Full Sun or Part Shade Mean?
Get clarity on how light levels impact plant success and how to assess sunlight in your yard.

WATCH: FIND THE RIGHT PLANT FOR THE RIGHT SPOT

Come along with Kristina Howley of Proven Winners ColorChoice^® Shrubs as she walks you through the real-life process of picking the perfect plant for a specific spot in her garden. Each short video is under a minute and offers quick inspiration to help you plan your own space. 

CHOOSE PLANTS WITH PURPOSE

You want plants that do more than just look good. Whether you're aiming to boost curb appeal, add privacy, or build a cohesive color palette, these guides will help you pick plants that support your garden goals and perform beautifully.

Choosing the Perfect Plant by Form + Function
Need a tall backdrop, filler for containers, or a trailing plant for a wall or hanging basket? Choose based on what each plant does, not just how it looks.

How to Select the Right Size Shrub
Avoid overcrowding and pruning headaches by choosing shrubs that naturally fit your space and growing conditions.

Using a Color Wheel to Select Flowers for Your Garden
Learn how to build color combinations that pop—whether you want purple flowers, soft pastels, or bold contrasts.

Want year-round interest? Visit our Through the Seasons hub for plant picks that shine in spring, summer, fall, and even winter.

POPULAR PICKS: SPOTLIGHT PLANT GUIDES

Some plants are tried-and-true favorites, but with so many varieties available, it’s not always easy to choose. These in-depth guides make it simple to find the perfect fit for your garden.

Grow Stunning Hydrangeas
From bold blues to lacy whites, find the right type for your climate, soil, and style.

Petunias that Wow
Explore petunias that work in hanging baskets, garden beds, and containers—especially our favorite Supertunias^® known for color and performance.

Hostas for Every Garden
Discover shade-tolerant hostas (and some that take sun) with bold foliage, unique textures, and the right size to suit your space.

Choosing the Right Hibiscus
Learn the difference between hardy and tropical hibiscus, and how to select one that works for your climate and garden.

MATCH PLANTS TO YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Let wildlife, weather, and soil guide your decisions. These collections help you choose good outdoor plants that are tough, sustainable, and supportive of your local ecosystem.

Deer-Resistant Plants

Find plants that are less appealing to grazers and more likely to thrive.

Pollinator Gardening

Attract pollinators with plants that provide nectar and habitat all season long.

Native Plants

Choose plants adapted to your local climate for better results and less work.