Hmmm...well, I have heard Lupines prefer dryer locations and well drained soil, which must be because of susceptibility to crown rot, but I'm not sure a plastic cup covering would be the answer. I'm wondering if that would hold in too much humidity? Perhaps a raised bed or mound of gritty, well drained soil? Then, on the other hand, folks up north have great luck with them, and often have snow cover for much of winter, so perhaps the cup would mimic that. Sounds like an experiment may be in order.
Lucy, I find any type of Iris so nice for combining with other plants. There's just no other floral form quite like them, so they contrast in form so beautifully with everything!
I've just started experimenting with Echinaceas the last couple of years from seed. They're already budding! This seems early for them, I thought they were more of a summer plant?
Another new one for me is Painted Daisy. I've looked at the gorgeous pics of them for years, and tried them a couple of times with no success, till wintersowing some a couple of years ago. I was really disappointed when they didn't bloom last year (their 2nd year), even though the plants looked great. Well, this year they're full of buds! I can't wait to see what they do!
