FWBG Perennial Trial Garden

The Trial Garden was established in the 1960's to test the performance of perennials in the climate of north central Texas. It is designed in a classic concentric pattern, the only garden in the Botanic Garden with a classic design. At the center is a gazebo surrounded by 264 individual beds. New trials are introduced by the Botanic Garden staff, and installed and maintained by Master Gardener volunteers.

Most trial gardens retire plants from trial after a certain period, however the number of beds, limitation of funds and constraints on volunteers have led to an even more valuable garden for the demonstration of hardy perennials that have endured the extremes of north Texas weather. Many of the plants are no longer available in the retail trade, but retain value in their durability and beauty. In recent years we have introduced approximately 25 new plant species into trials each season.

 Volunteers in the Trial Garden gain a wealth of knowledge about a variety of plant species, and their growth habits, maintenance and propagation.

Data are recorded on the fourth week of each month during the growing season. Each year the collected data is compiled listing the 'top performers'. This information is shared with the public.

Master Gardeners appreciate and enjoy the unique beauty of this project with its wide botanical display of plants visited by insects, butterflies, and humming birds, demonstrating the connections between them.