THERE are so many colours and flower forms of Echinacea available these days – much more than there were a generation ago.
The more fancy forms tend to be the fussiest and the secret to success is sharp drainage. Grow them in full sun for the best flowering and keep them well watered in the first couple of years.
Mine grow in a shallow (7in) trough and come back year after year. I do keep my eye on them as they soon droop their heads when they need watering.
In the ground their tolerance of drought is low until they’re well established. Leave flowerheads intact for winter structure. The common pink form is the hardiest.
Author: Jonny
Author of Gardening Life!