Coreopsis

Terrific beginner's perennial, thread-leaf coreopsis is a sturdy, upright plant that loves the sun, needs little water and does fine even in poor soil. It blooms in mid summer, about the same time that Shasta Daisies are at their best too. They reach a height of about 2 feet and do nicely in front of taller plants. In the spring, delightful fine foliage emerges. Nice by itself, it looks like a mounded green bush.

Excellent as cut flowers. When the blooms fade, cut the plant down by about half, it will have a smaller showing of flowers in the fall.

Fast growers, these plants will spread quickly. Divide as often as you wish. Remember, when the center of the clump stops blooming the plant needs to be divided. They form shallow root systems and become matted with roots. Clumps about 3 inches across do well. The young plants seem to flower a little earlier than the older clumps. I tried growing them in part sun. While they survive, they are less vigorous and have fewer flowers. If given too much shade and fertilizer, they will become spindly and unattractive.

A great plant for the Northwest. Pair it with Shasta daisies, Rose Campion, and Bee Balm for a stunning display. I'll tell you more about those plants later on.

Is there more than one coreopsis?

Yes, there are several kinds of coreopsis. This is the standard one but with the finely divided leaves. There is another coreopsis that older gardeners have grown for years---Coreopsis lanceolata. It has broader, hairy leaves and the flower is not as delicate. I prefer this one because of its upright habit. The other can get sprawled out but other than that, is a a great plant.

Horticulturists have also developed different varieties of coreopsis. Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' is a nice pale yellow variety. You'll see the complete scientific name on the tag of the plant at your local nursery.

Your best bet as a beginner is to stick with the old standards until you gain some confidence, then start trying new things from the nursery.

And by all means, make friends with other gardeners. Most are willing to share a clump of this or that and help you get started. My favorite plants, and some of my best performers, have come from the shovel of dear friends!