By Phran Novelli

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - A sure sign of spring even through last week’s snow – plant tags.

I planted lots of perennials last year and I do stick plant tags in the ground or I’d forget where I put them all. Lots of people don’t like the look of the tags, and it’s true that plastic plant tags aren’t so pretty, and you can make or buy tags out of metal, wood, or tile that are more attractive to have in your garden throughout the year. But, without any tags, I’d lose track of what’s where. And until they’re established, I want to remember where I planted everything – so I don’t plant over them while they’re dormant or dig them up by mistake when I go to plant something else.

Plus, keeping the tag reminds you which specific cultivar you planted in case you want to get more. (Or, never buy it again.)

So, while you may not love the look of plastic plant tags sticking up in your garden, I don’t really mind them so much. In winter they’re a reminder of what’s to come in the spring and summer, and once everything’s growing again, the tags are all hidden among the leaves anyway.