Having a passion for gardening as well as owning a mini garden center, one of the most asked questions is “What is the perfect perennial?”  After 25 years, I finally have an answer!

Russian Sage, I feel, is the “Perfect Perennial” and here’s why:

1.  Easy to grow – plant it, forget it
2.  Tolerates all soil conditions
3.  Blooms throughout the summer and into fall
4.  Flowers are lavender-blue
5.  Great for cutting to use in bouquets
6.  Excellent for dried arrangements
7.  Insects don’t bother it
8.  Deer proof and in our area that has to be #1
9.  Given the room to grow – can look like a shrub

When you plant this gorgeous plant in your gardens, you will not be sorry.

AND the “Perfect Annual”, I feel, is Cleome and here’s why:

1.  Easy to grow from seed – in fact plant it once and comes back every year from seed
2.  Tolerates all soil conditions
3.  Flowers all summer and into the fall
4.  Colors are pink, violet and white
5.  No pest problems
6.  Deer don’t like this one either
7.  Awesome in a cottage type garden

Add Cleome to your garden, either from seed or buy plants the first year and this will be the last time you have to plant it!  The seed pods “explode” and supply your garden with plants each year.

I have a variety of annuals and perennials I enjoy, but if you are just starting out – these two are “Sure Winners” – you’ll love the results!

Do you have a gardening question?  Not sure what to plant where?  Which flowers attract hummingbirds?  Which flowers attract butterflies?  Should I use mulch?  What are the benefits of compost?

Your comments and questions are welcome and I will be happy to respond.