Gardening

Gaura produces its airy flower display most reliably in sun and well-drained soil without excessive feeding. Oenothera lindheimeri tolerates heat and, once established, some…

Threadleaf coreopsis is a good fit for a sunny border with well-drained, relatively lean soil. Coreopsis verticillata can become weak and floppy when conditions…

Balloon flower grows best where its fleshy roots can remain undisturbed. Give Platycodon grandiflorus sun or partial shade, well-drained soil and a clearly labeled…

Spiked speedwell is straightforward when it gets sun, moist but well-drained soil and a sensible trim after flowering. Once the main spikes finish, cut…

Scarlet bee balm grows best in sun with moist, well-drained soil and enough space for its spreading clump. Monarda didyma is not the right…

Garden phlox needs a different watering approach from dry-border perennials: aim for moist, fertile, well-drained soil and enough airflow around its stems. Phlox paniculata…

Lamb’s ear looks best when its woolly foliage dries readily after rain and its roots are not waterlogged. Grow Stachys byzantina in sun or…

Bergenia is grown for broad, leathery foliage as well as spring flower clusters. Give it a drained site, moisture during establishment, and enough room…

Siberian bugloss grows best in partial to full shade with moist, well-drained soil and protection from hot afternoon sun. Brunnera macrophylla is especially useful…

Foxglove beardtongue grows well in sun or light shade, with soil that drains after rain. Penstemon digitalis can handle a useful range of conditions,…