Q: I am moving soon from New York and would like to know which of my beloved perennials I can transplant successfully in my new yard – irises, acuba, daylilies, peonies, and astilbe?

A: This is a difficult time to transplant anything here because it is so hot, but with enough water and attention you could transplant the acuba (in shade), daylilies and astilbe (shade). The astilbe is sold in our local nurseries and should be planted in an area where it can receive sufficient moisture – away from drought tolerant plants. We have plenty of other plants which will do well here, use less water and are better suited for our climate such as Jacobinia. Check out our demonstration gardens for tried and true plants. In addition, consider attending our next plant sale for the optimal garden plants for this area.

Sadly, you should leave the irises and peonies in New York. The bearded irises you are accustomed to growing are not the best choice, however, we do have a variety of irises (African irises) available to choose from which are hardy and flower beautifully from spring through fall. Nothing quite matches the beauty of a peony but you might consider replacing it with Rose of Sharon or a Knock-Out rose shrub. Nassau County Florida website: http://nassau.ifas.ufl.edu

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