Wildflowers

Goldenrods are easy to grow when planted in good garden soil in full sun. They are extremely hardy, drought tolerant, long-lived perennials. They also have few insect or disease problems and require minimal maintenance.

Even a summer with normal rainfall has plenty of hot, dry weather. For flowers that thrive under these conditions, pick some from the following list:

Yarrow (Achillea filipendulina). The domesticated version of the perennial wildflower is drought tolerant and produces quantities of 3- to 5-inch golden-yellow flowers that are excellent for fresh or dried arrangements. Recently introduced cultivars offer flowers in a range of colors from dark pink, coral and red to yellow and cream. Plants bloom from June through August.

Looking for a book to give the gardener in your family this holiday season? Here are some of my favorites.

Conservation plantings of wildflowers and grasses may range in size from a few plants in a home garden, to extensive plantings on a farm or acreage. Usually these plantings are intended to create habitat for butterflies, pollinators, birds or other wildlife. But if the planting isn’t well-maintained, it’s benefits and beauty many decrease over time.