This guide investigates the selection, cultivation, and maintenance of hardy herbaceous perennials suitable for border planting in temperate climates. Frances Perry, a recognized authority in horticulture, synthesizes decades of practical gardening experience to provide a structured manual for both amateur and professional gardeners. The text serves as a comprehensive reference, organizing plant species by their physical characteristics and environmental requirements to assist in the design of sustainable garden borders.

This work is regarded as a foundational reference for mid-twentieth-century horticultural practices, valued for its clarity and technical precision. The text provides a structured, accessible approach that remains relevant for gardeners seeking to establish long-term, low-maintenance perennial borders.