Welcome to the wonderful world of perennials! We’re excited about the prospect of introducing you to the ABCs of our enduring favorites, many of which get better with age. While the idea of starting a garden can be daunting— hard work and heartbreak come with the territory— there’s nothing more satisfying. My hope is that as you come into your own as a gardener, you find a community of like-minded folks—because, as a rule, floral fans are generous with their time, knowledge and cuttings. I’m also keeping my fingers crossed that this primer is a bit of a matchmaker—that we introduce you to special plants that will be with you for years to come.