From time to time we receive the question, "How is the Perennial Plant of the Year selected?" The selection process is quite simple – PPA members vote for the POY. In addition to their vote, each member nominates plants for future consideration. The Perennial Plant of the Year Committee reviews the nominated perennials and selects 3 to 4 plants to be placed on the ballot.

Nominations are based are the following criteria:

• Suitable for a wide range of climatic conditions


• Low maintenance


• Pest and disease resistant


• Readily available in the year of release


• Multiple season of ornamental interest


• Easily propagated by asexual or seed propagation

Customarily, we receive a high percentage of returned ballots, certainly much higher than in the November general election. The voting reflects the interest in the Plant of the Year© and the enjoyment and impact felt by the perennial market and consumers alike. Keep watchiing for the announcement of the next Perennial Plant of the Year© selection!