Clare, which does best for you might depend on where you live - have you checked around for what's thriving in your own area? Most of them have their origins in the Mediterranean, sun, sandy quick draining soil that is neutral to alkaline in ph, dry winters. My own garden couldn't be more opposite, acidic soil, clay based, long wet winters - Grosso (Lavandula x intermedia 'Grosso') has worked out better than munstead, hidcote lavenders for me here. Any I plant just about have to be sited on sloping ground.

Sarah, What the others have told you is good advice. Back off the watering some. How deep did you plant the crowns? I would say 10 out of 20 crowns would show something 2-3 weeks if planted 4" deep (but in a trench for adding depth later). Some can take 6 weeks though with 4". If yours is deeper than that they can still get through but it takes longer. You were a little late planting so that may throw it off a little too from my experience. On the bright side when they exit the ground and see light, they will grow very fast, like a foot in a week and start to "Fern-out". They will be laughable in size compared to what you see in the store so do not be surprised or disappointed. They get larger in time. Asparagus can be tedious at times so read up on the OSU fact sheets in regards to them so you can be ready if you see trouble. Good luck! Christopher S. OKC

Asparagus crowns go in as early in the spring as the ground can be worked. You don't want the ground boggy from snow melt though. I live in the very northern Catskills in zone 5 (we must not be as high up as you are) and planted mine 3 years ago in early April.

Hot Lips has wintered over very well for the last three years in my Shoreline garden. As for soil, large pieces in the mix. In the spring and summer don't water unless soil is really dry - about half way down the pot. Fast drainage is the key - even more important than full day sun. Fortunately, the plant is not very expensive so if it does freeze buy a new one in the spring. You can grow lots of different salvias if you consider them annuals. The hummers will thank you and give you hours of joy watching them. You could also try Grevilleas and fuschias.