Perennials are the backbone of our Southern flower gardens. The Montrose Garden Club's book, "In Full Bloom: The Delta, The Bay, The Beach" tells how to make them show off for years. IRIS Irises are low maintenance, relatively pest free, long lived perennials. There are countless species and hybrids in practically every color imaginable. Iris species are comprised of two varieties: Those growing from rhizomes and from bulbs. Both species can be successfully grown on the Gulf Coast. The authoritative source for detailed information about growing Iris in the South is the Clemson University Home and Garden Information Center (hgic.clemson.edu). DAYLILIES Daylilies have been garden favorites for many years because of their beauty and durability. Even so, many gardeners don't realize the wide variety beyond the usual oranges and yellows. Today, daylilies come in sizes from miniatures measuring about an inch to spiders about 10 inches in diameter. They often rebloom one or more times per season. They add beauty, attract butterflies and hummingbirds, and even provide erosion control. To learn more, go to the American Hemerocallis Web site daylilies.org. Main image: Hemerocallis "Dutch Yellow Truffle" (Kirchoff, D 2003). Maintenance of daylilies includes watering at least inches a week, preferably at least every two to three days. You can use a sprayed, balanced fertilizer mixed with water every one to two weeks during bloom to enhance bloom. Plants like mulch to keep soil cool and damp during the hot months. Pictured above, left: Hemerocallis "Christmas Beau" (Petit T 2004). Best planted in the fall or early spring to ensure good bloom for the next season, daylilies prefer sandy loam soil with plenty of humus material. Space your daylilies 18-24 inches apart. GERBERA DAISIES One word can describe this daisy - elegant! The flower is used often in arrangements, and the blooms will actually last weeks. The many, many colors are vivid to pastels and really make a statement in your garden. Gerberas bloom most of the year, dying back in cold winters. Cut off dead leaves and the warming spring sun will bring them right back up. For new plants, give them a little extra water in the hot weather until the roots become established. The plant itself is also showy. GINGERS Gingers are great foliage plants, allowing the garden to incorporate different heights, shapes, colors and textures. There are varieties that thrive in full sun (Globba, Kaempferia) part shade (Hedychium, Curcuma, Alpinia) and full sun (Costus). Some are hardy to zone seven, others only in zone 10. Pictured above, right: Zingiber gingers are also known as Pinecone Gingers or Shampoo Gingers. Canes grow to be four foot to eight foot tall. Flowers are usually white cream or pink. Bloom can last four to six weeks. PERENNIAL POINTERS SLOPE AND DRAINAGE - Most perennials prefer well-drained soil. Some plants will tolerate short periods of heavy moisture, but will die if allowed to have "wet feet" for extended time. Most perennials like regular watering. SOIL - Most perennials prefer a soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Lime can be added to raise the pH. Incorporate 3 to 4 inches of organic matter, such as compost or mulch, into the soil before planting. FOOD - Fertilize perennials with 5-10-10. Work fertilizer into the soil before plants are put into the ground. Fertilize again when plants begin to bloom. MULCH - Mulch plants to help the soil retain moisture and control weeds. From "IN FULL BLOOM: THE DELTA, THE BAY, THE BEACH The Plants and Gardens of Baldwin & Mobile Counties." @2008 American Image Publishing. All rights reserved. Available at Old Tyme Feed and Garden Supply, Preast's Petals and Pottery, Page and Palette, Stagecoach Cafe, Grand Hotel Marriott Resort Gift Shop, Elizabeth's Garden, Bellingrath Gardens and Home Gift Shop, Zimlich's Patio and Garden Center, Springhill Medical Center Gift Shop.