These five perennials bloom all summer with almost no work

Yes, you can have flowers from June to September without becoming a full-time gardener. These five perennials are the real deal.

Coreopsis (tickseed) is my go-to. It starts blooming in late spring and keeps going until frost. Cut it back once in midsummer, and it rewards you with a second wave. Full sun, any soil, no fertilizer needed.

Salvia (perennial sage) is tough as nails. Those purple spikes attract bees and butterflies. Deadhead it—or don’t. It still blooms. Just give it sun and well-drained soil.

Echinacea (coneflower) is a classic for a reason. Blooms for months, handles drought, and the seed heads feed birds in winter. One plant, many seasons.

Black-eyed Susan is the reliable friend. It spreads a little, but that’s fine. Yellow petals with dark centers, blooms nonstop from July to October. Cut off spent flowers if you’re feeling fancy.

Russian sage is