Tom Strowlger

Dahlias are at their peak in August but need regular care to remain healthy and productive. Gardeners should support the plants with canes and twine, water and feed them weekly, and deadhead spent flowers to direct energy toward new buds and blooms. The flowers can continue until the first autumn frost.

Crocosmia is promoted as an ideal plant for sunny garden borders, with strong stems, vivid summer blooms and foliage that dies back in winter before regrowing. The corms should be planted in early spring in well-drained soil and full sun, ideally in tight clumps for better support and appearance, and may need staking if top-heavy. The plant thrives when left to establish over multiple years, producing increasingly large displays of yellow, orange and red flowers.