Understanding the Language of Gardening: Abbreviations and Acronyms
Gardening is like any other field – it has its own unique language. Don’t worry if you’re not fluent in “plant speak” yet. This guide will help you decipher the common abbreviations and acronyms you’ll find in nursery catalogs and gardening books.
Plant Abbreviations
Some plant abbreviations are pretty straightforward and consistent across the board. Here are a few key ones:
- cv (cultivar): A plant that has been developed by humans and doesn’t grow naturally.
- var (variety): A specific type of plant that does grow naturally.
- sp (species): A subgroup of plants within a genus that can all interbreed.
Nursery Abbreviations
Beyond these basic abbreviations, things can get a bit more confusing. Some nurseries use different abbreviations for the same thing. For example, “DT” could mean “drought-tolerant” at one nursery and “dry tropical” at another.
Here are a few common nursery abbreviations to watch out for:
| Abbreviation | Possible Meanings |
|---|---|
| DT | Drought-tolerant, dry tropical |
| W | Wet conditions, west |
| Hum | Hummingbird |
| Dec | Deciduous |
Acronyms in Gardening
Acronyms are also commonly used in gardening. Here are a few examples:
- USDA (United States Department of Agriculture): The USDA assigns hardiness zones to plants, which indicate the coldest temperatures they can withstand.
- AAS (All-America Selections): AAS is a non-profit organization that tests and evaluates new plant varieties. Plants that earn the AAS seal are known for their superior performance in gardens.
- RHS (Royal Horticultural Society): The RHS is a British organization that promotes horticulture and gardening. The RHS publishes a variety of gardening resources, including books, magazines, and online articles.
Pictures and Symbols
In addition to abbreviations and acronyms, you may also come across pictures or symbols in plant catalogs. These symbols usually represent specific plant characteristics, such as:
- Sun requirements (e.g., full sun, partial shade, full shade)
- Soil type (e.g., well-drained, moist, clay)
- Hardiness zone (e.g., USDA hardiness zones 3-7)
Tips for Deciphering Plant Abbreviations and Acronyms
Here are a few tips for deciphering plant abbreviations and acronyms:
- Context is key. Pay attention to the context in which the abbreviation or acronym is used. This can help you narrow down the possible meanings.
- Look for patterns. Some abbreviations and acronyms are more common than others. For example, “cv” is almost always used to indicate a cultivar.
- Use a reference guide. Many gardening books and websites include lists of common plant abbreviations and acronyms.
Conclusion
Understanding plant abbreviations and acronyms can help you make more informed decisions about the plants you choose for your garden. With a little practice, you’ll be able to decipher even the most confusing plant labels.
