Sedum

Plant in spring or autumn in any well-drained soil in full sun. Sedum thrives in poor, dry conditions and actually flowers better when not overfed — rich soil or excess nitrogen causes floppy, weak growth. Space plants 30-40 cm apart. Water sparingly once established, as overwatering causes root rot. In exposed gardens, use the Chelsea Chop in late May — cut half the stems back by a third to produce shorter, sturdier plants that resist flopping. Sedum is one of the lowest-maintenance perennials available, rarely needing attention beyond an annual spring tidy. Grow in gravel gardens alongside other drought-tolerant plants for a striking, water-wise border.

Leave the dried flower heads standing through winter for structural interest and wildlife value. Cut all old stems back to ground level in early March when new shoots appear at the base. Remove any stems that have flopped or split from the centre.