We learned a lot by taking a peek at what others did. (during our journeys out and about) We went into established areas to see how the landscape plants held up over time and how big they could eventually get. We watched the plants we found attractive for a few seasons, to see how they looked at different times of the year.
We also paid attention to homes that were the same color as ours. (for color/plant combo inspiration)
Looking at the staples that The Villages uses for permanent plantings helped too.
I did a lot of research online, to find out how to maintain the ones that really caught my eye. I was most interested in minimum fuss and disease-resistant selections.
Some plants bloom seasonally... not continually, so I checked that out too.
Often people use plants and shrubs that are marginally hardy here and don't mind replacing them after winter, for fresh beautiful color. Plants become available for sale seasonally when the time is right for planting.
I was a pretty avid perennial gardener up North, but soon found I have a lot to learn about Central Florida gardening. The UFL extension has online charts that are quite helpful, and if you google "Florida Friendly Landscaping" you will find excellent guidelines.
We also have master gardening clinics here, if you want to get that involved.
Check the Daily Sun for info on those.
I kept getting mixed opinions/instructions on plants at various landscape/garden centers around here.... so I let my own observations and my follow-up research guide me.
Did find a master gardener at the Market of Marion that I like. Everything that I have purchased from him is thriving. He has also brought in additional things for me when I wanted them at very good prices.
His name is Richard Toth. His stall is in D South. (next to the flag guy)
If you have ideas and want experienced input, there are lots of interested Gardeners on our forum. Just ask!
Most of all, have fun.
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