With an unwavering eye for quality, Jo Ann meticulously evaluates each plant in her garden, observing their growth patterns, resilience to local conditions, and overall vigor. Only the most exceptional specimens earn her seal of approval, standing out for their ability to thrive in North Carolina’s sometimes challenging environment. Through years of trial and error, Jo Ann has amassed a collection of tried-and-true varieties, each handpicked for its outstanding performance and adaptability.
Once identified as a star performer, Jo Ann’s dedication doesn’t end there. Instead, she takes the extra step to propagate and procure her favorite selections, making them accessible to fellow gardeners eager to experience their beauty firsthand.
Through years of trial and error, Jo Ann has amassed a collection of tried-and-true varieties, each handpicked for its outstanding performance and adaptability.
Here are Jo Ann’s Top 10 (in no particular order):
Persian Shield
With its striking purple and silver foliage, Persian Shield adds an exotic flair to any garden bed. Thriving in partial shade to shade, this plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Regular watering and occasional pruning to maintain its bushy form are all it needs to thrive.
Shrimp Plant
Known for its unique shrimp-like flowers, this tropical beauty boasts vibrant yellow flowers that are a favorite of pollinators. Plant in well-draining soil and provide full to part sunlight. Regular watering and occasional fertilization during the growing season will keep it flourishing.
Blue Plumbago
A true garden gem, Blue Plumbago enchants with its sky-blue flowers and lush green foliage. Plant in full sun and water regularly, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly to shape and encourage blooming.
Hawaiian Snowbush
Its delicate, variegated leaves lend an elegant touch to any garden, offering a beautiful contrast of pink, green and white. Thrives in filtered sunlight and well-draining soil. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and trim lightly to maintain its graceful form.
Bougainvillea
A showstopper in any garden, Bougainvillea dazzles with its vibrant bracts in shades of pink, red, orange, or purple. Plant in full sun and well-draining soil. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and provide support for climbing varieties.
Sunpatiens
These vigorous annuals offer non-stop color throughout the season, with large, vibrant blooms in shades of pink, orange, purple, and white. Plant in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Water regularly, especially during hot weather, and deadhead spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.
Dragon Wing Begonia
With its glossy, wing-shaped leaves and cascading habit, Dragon Wing Begonia adds a touch of elegance to hanging baskets and containers. Thrives in partial shade and well-draining soil. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy, and pinch back stems to encourage bushiness.
Lantana
A favorite for its clusters of colorful flowers and attractive foliage, Lantana is a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds. Plant in full sun and well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and prune lightly to shape and control growth.
Coleus
With its kaleidoscope of colors and patterns, Coleus adds instant drama and interest to any garden or container. We grow varieties that thrive in partial shade to full sun and well-draining soil. Keep soil consistently moist and pinch back flower spikes to encourage bushiness and vibrant foliage.
Cuphea
Also known as cigar plant, Cuphea charms with its tubular, bi-colored flowers and compact growth habit. Plant in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering.
In a world where trends come and go, Jo Ann’s gardening wisdom reminds us of the enduring value of selecting plants not just for their beauty but for their ability to thrive throughout the season.
Jo Ann’s 50 years of expertise serve as a beacon of trust and reliability. Her insight and experience provide invaluable guidance, helping others navigate the vast array of plant choices and select those best suited to their own gardens.
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