Oh and Becky, item 7.
I am no expert but from my experience it is a trial and error thing ... finding the best semp for your micro climate.
I have found that what grows well for the PNW or Wisconsin my not do well in my area. As painful as it is you just have to try some until you find some tough ones. Look around in the gardens of others and at Botanical/Nursery centers and ask questions of growers in your area.
Good luck - it is a good idea to keep a smile on your face even if all your semps give it up at the end of a season, you have enjoyed them for the time they were with you and you learn something each time. Or so I have found.