Stone, thanks so much for your suggestions. I'll probably re-attempt rudbekia and research the others. I so enjoyed visiting your pics. You surely are a very busy kind of guy. Loved the bird/butterfly friendly varieties you are growing. Kudos to you. Love watching my cardinals, wrens, bluebirds and mockers. Not so much on blue-jays as they're such bullies. We're in the same growing zone so your suggestions should work here. Be blessed!!