Submitted 07/25/08 08:37:12 by Heidi from Charlotte, NC.

Q Just planted coreopsis, purple coneflower and sedum. The coreopsis seems fine, but the sedum and coneflower both seem to be deteriorating though I have watered well. I am seeing small oval greyish brown bugs in the soil around their bases. Thought they were slugs (even though they move around) and put saucers of beer out. This has not really attracted them, only ants and hope the chippies, squirrels and birds aren't drinking it! Any ideas? Thank you, love your column, so helpful and interesting.

Answered 07/25/08 23:17:22 by Nancy Brachey

A: Planting in July is stressful for perennials, even rugged ones like purple coneflower and sedum. Give them time. You may be overwatering the sedum, which is a succulent whose leaves hold water. Ease off a bit there. Don't expect much new growth this summer but the roots should develop nicely through the autumn and next spring. I planted purple coneflowers (bought in the August sale) last summer. It suffered a lot in the dry summer and autumn weeks but bounced back nicely and has bloomed this summer. Don't give up. Ay in