To figure out how to select the perfect plants for your own outdoor space, whether it’s a big backyard or a petite patio, we asked the plant experts at Costa Farms for the rules to follow when picking plants. As it turns out, considering these five factors before you head to the nursery can help you choose plants that are sure to thrive. When you’re planting in ground, enriching your soil before planting can help your plants thrive in their new home. Look for Miracle-Gro Performance Organics In-Ground Soil, a high-performance organic option, which is specially blended with aged compost, and has been shown to grow double the amount of flowers, vegetables, and herbs, compared to unfed plants. If you accidentally place plants in the wrong spot, keeping them healthy will be an uphill battle. Putting shade-dwelling plants in a hot, sunny spot results in yellowing leaves that have brown, crispy edges. Placing sun-lovers beneath a tree prevents them from blooming. It also makes them grow tall and leggy and makes them more vulnerable to disease and pests.