Proven Winners® ColorChoice®

Breeders submit thousands of seedlings, yet fewer than three percent survive multi‑year, multi‑region trials that measure bloom length, color innovation, compact habit, disease resistance, non‑invasiveness, and overall garden performance. Only those that excel across every metric earn the ColorChoice label, which is further organized into consumer‑friendly programs such as Deer Proof™ and Hot Climate™. Because each cultivar is “proven” before release, gardeners enjoy longer bloom windows, healthier foliage, and lower maintenance compared with generic shrubs—translating to fewer replacements and greater landscape success.

The collection spans Zones 2 through 9, so first confirm your zone with the USDA map. Then filter the lineup by zone to view compatible options. Next, match sun exposure, moisture, and soil type: for example, choose drought‑tough ‘Kodiak®’ diervilla for dry shade, heat‑loving Center Stage® crape myrtle for hot southern sites, or acid‑tolerant Gatsby® oakleaf hydrangea for woodland edges. Finally, weigh desired features—fragrance, fall color, pollinator value—to narrow hundreds of cultivars to the few that will thrive in your exact micro‑climate.

1) Amend the top 12 in. of native soil with 2–3 in. compost to boost drainage and fertility; 2) Dig a hole twice as wide as the pot and set the root ball so the crown sits slightly above grade to prevent waterlogging; 3) Back‑fill, firm gently, and water until the soil is saturated; 4) Apply a 2‑in. mulch ring—keep mulch 2 in. away from stems—to moderate temperature and conserve moisture; 5) Provide about 1 in. of water weekly the first growing season, then irrigate only during drought. This sequence minimizes transplant shock, accelerates root growth, and sets the stage for maximum bloom.

Most ColorChoice shrubs bloom on new wood, so perform structural pruning in late winter or very early spring: remove dead, damaged, or crossing stems, then shorten remaining branches by up to one‑third just above an outward bud. For spring‑flowering selections (lilacs, forsythia, many viburnums), wait until immediately after bloom to avoid cutting off next year’s flower buds. Rather than shearing the outer shell—which can create a hollow interior—thin out a few of the oldest canes at the base to preserve a natural form, improve air circulation, and sustain vigorous flowering.

Many cultivars carry the Deer Proof™ insignia—examples include ‘Sprinter®’ boxwood, ‘Beyond Midnight®’ bluebeard, and ‘Kodiak®’ diervilla—signifying that browsing damage is rare even in high‑pressure areas. While no plant is completely deer‑proof, combining these selections with smart placement (full sun encourages aromatic foliage deer dislike) and early‑season repellents protects new growth until deer lose interest. Maintaining plant health through proper watering and cleanup prevents stress scents that can attract hungry wildlife, further lowering the risk of nibbling.