Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

Which characteristic best describes perennials in landscaping?

1. They die back every winter

2. They only bloom in spring

3. They regain their foliage each year

4. They require replanting annually

The correct answer is: They regain their foliage each year

Perennials in landscaping are defined by their ability to regain their foliage each year after going dormant. This characteristic sets them apart from annuals, which need to be replanted each year, and biennials, which typically complete their life cycle over two growing seasons. During winter or adverse conditions, perennials may die back to ground level, but their root systems remain alive, allowing them to re-emerge in the spring with fresh growth. This cycle of dormancy and regrowth makes them a popular choice for gardens since they provide a lasting presence without the need for annual replanting. Other choices highlight characteristics or behaviors that do not accurately represent perennials. For instance, while some perennials may die back in winter, not all do, and this behavior is not consistent across the entire group. Additionally, perennials are not limited to blooming only in spring; many can bloom at various times throughout the growing season. Finally, the need for replanting annually is a defining trait of annuals, not perennials, further underscoring the distinct nature of perennials in landscaping.