The meaning of perennial. A perennial is any plant that lives for three or more years when it's grown in conditions it can tolerate. Just because a plant does not live three years does not mean it is not a perennial, (Mexican sage probably wouldn't survive in Alaska). All perennials have the potential to live a long, full life. Technically, the term perennial includes trees, shrubs and grasses. Usually when gardeners talk about perennials we are referring to herbaceous flowering perennials which have soft, fleshy stems.

Have you heard of xeriscaping? If you haven't before, you are sure to in the future. This movement is strong in arid regions. Owners coping with water shortages are embracing xeriscape thinking which combines good horticulture with water conservation to create flower gardens every bit as lush and vibrant as those in more temperate climates.

Edible herb bouquets. When cutting fresh herbs for the kitchen, don't worry about snipping off more than you need. Put the extra cuttings in a vase of water and use them to decorate the table. They will remain kitchen fresh as long as they stay perky (usually a week or more). Basil, marjoram, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage and thyme can be displayed this way.

Daffodils in containers. For maximum show, set bulbs close together, the tips level with the soil surface. Cover the pots with 6" to 8" of moist peat moss or wood shavings. Look for roots at 8 to 10 weeks. Move the pots to a cool room or sheltered garden spot to bloom. Keep well watered until the foliage yellows, then plant in the garden.

Sea Lavender (or Statice) lasts long fresh or dried. Cut these flowers for fresh bouquets after most of the flowers have finished blooming. For dried arrangements, cut after opening, but before sun has faded them. With a rubber band join several bunches together by the stem bases. Hang bunches upside down in a dry spot out of the sun until the flowers dry.

Adobe soil. There are many problems associated with growing in adobe. The primary one is that of drainage. Whenever possible a tile drain system should be installed. The soil can best be amended with Bandini 'Soil Builder' and decomposed granite mixed in deeply. Alkalinity must also be considered if plants look yellow. Stunted soil sulfur added at a rate of 2 pounds per 100 square feet will help balance the soil.

Light sandy soil. Adding as much humus as possible with peat moss and cultivating well will improve this type of soil. When watering perennials, vegetables and shrubs do not water too deep. Watering trees should be done deeply and seldom to encourage deep rooted development.

What types of flowers or shrubs would do well on the west side of the house where the temperature can reach 120 degrees? Leptosermum, oleander, lantana, bougainvillea, cistus, plumbago, felicia and pittosporum should all do well. For annuals, marigolds, petunias, portulacas and tithonias will give summer color.

Planting under eucalyptus. The heavy demand for food and water by the tree and the toxic effect of the leaves and bark make trouble for most plants. Grass, heavily fed and watered is the best bet since debris can easily be raked off. Ivy can be used but cleanup of debris is difficult.

Attracting hummingbirds. Hummingbirds add an exciting dash of color to your garden. They are easy to attract after you understand their basic needs. Because they have a high metabolism they need a frequent nectar supply. They are attracted to bright colored tube shaped flowers, especially red and orange. To attract hummingbirds try planting salvia, cardinal flowers, trumpet vine, columbine, phlox, delphinium, and morning glories. In order to assure constant visitors you need to plant with overlapping bloom periods.

Freezing soft fruit. Spread the fruits out on a tray so they are not in contact with each other, then freeze them. Once they are frozen they can be transferred to a container and kept frozen until they are needed. Some soft fruits that freeze well are: apples, apricots, berries, cherries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, plums, and raspberries. It's best to remove the pit or core before freezing.

You can trap snails and slugs by moistening a piece of newspaper and loosely rolling it into a tube. The snails and slugs will seek shelter in it during daylight hours. You can pick up the newspaper and dispose of it, sleeping guests and all.