THE FIRST CATALOGS ARRIVED THIS WEEK and made me think how out of date my source list was, so finally: an update–the first of several to come. To my former list of links I’ve added many catalog vendors; more reference sites–and the start of a whole section of plant societies. The whole growing-by-the-minute list now has its own page for easy reference. How you can help, and my thoughts on what makes the cut:

My original list, which I’ve edited a bit here and there since I posted it in 2008, included only sources I had personally done business with, either here at home, or in my former job and other professional affiliations. Now I have expanded it to include some that relied-upon friends rely upon, too.

I’m open to new sources and hope you’ll share yours, with the disclaimer that I will first get in touch with them, order a catalog (where applicable), have a look for myself, and either order or ask around. No one who list links can be sure that every reader who tries a recommended source will have an ideal experience, but I want to exercise caution. I have a pile of catalogs on order at the moment for just that reason, that may soon make the list.

As for the plant societies, I’m just getting started compiling them, and here’s what their sites are good for: Typically they have an FAQ that’s genus-specific, and other often hard-to-find-elsewhere information like how to start the plant from seed. In addition, many offer subscription publications geared to enthusiasts, lists of local chapters you can join–and entire source lists of their own, geared to the particular plant. Enjoy!