Roses are red.
Violets are blue.
But you wouldn’t know a perennial from a succulent if it were eyeballing you.

So how do you graduate beyond the lifeless fern in your planter?

Paradise Contained, a home and garden boutique in Studio City, can give you a quick education in the wild world of vegetation for a fraction of the cost of a professional landscaper ($25-$30, precisely).

As a three-time participant on HGTV’s Landscapers’ Challenge, store owner Anne Phillips has a healthy appreciation for the DIY spirit. She offers classes like Gardening Basics, Plant Selection, and Plant Maintenance throughout the year; other topics such as Fall Planting and Scented Gardens change according to the season. Lessons taught by gardening vet Keith Cates are held in the store, at private homes, or at a local nursery.

With class size limited to ten people, you can be sure that all of your concerns will be addressed.

Like, why is my thumb turning green?

Don’t worry. It’s a good thing.

Paradise Contained, 12186 Ventura Boulevard, at Vantage Avenue, Studio City (818-508-6266). For class schedule, e-mail Anne Phillips (parcont2@aol.com).