Veronica comes in many different varieties and all of them are beautiful perennials. They range from groundcovers to tall spiked flowers. Their flowers bloom from early spring to late in the summer.

For Creeping Speedwell: plant indoors 8 - 10 weeks before the last frost. For all other Veronicas, plant indoors 4 - 6 weeks before the last frost. Or, start all directly outdoors after danger of frost has passed.

Plant groundcover Veronica in full sun. For other Veronica types, plant in full sun or partial shade. Plant all varieties in well-drained, gravelly soil.

• You have two options for planting seeds: Sow them directly into the garden by pressing into the soil but not covering, after the risk of frost has passed. Alternatively, start seeds indoors four to six weeks before the average last frost date in spring.
• For groundcover Veronica plants, approximately 1000 seeds covers 20 square feet. For other Veronica plants, sow 4 - 7 seeds per plant.
• Once seedlings sprout, ensure they receive plenty of light by placing them on a sunny windowsill or positioning them 3-4 inches below fluorescent plant lights that are switched on for 16 hours daily and off for 8 hours at night. Adjust the lights as the plants grow taller. Avoid using incandescent bulbs as they generate excessive heat. Remember, most plants need a period of darkness to thrive, so do not keep the lights on for 24 hours.
• Transplant into garden when temperatures are consistently warm.
• Before transplanting seedlings into the garden, it's essential to "harden them off". This involves acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered outdoor area for about a week. Initially, shield them from strong winds and direct sunlight. If there's a risk of frost overnight, either cover the plants or bring them indoors, then return them outside in the morning. This hardening off method helps strengthen the plant's cell structure, minimizing transplant shock and sun damage.
• Space plants 10 - 12 inches apart in garden.

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• Mulches play a vital role in preserving soil moisture and ensuring consistent soil temperatures. When it comes to annuals, using organic mulch made from shredded leaves not only enhances the appearance of the bed but also enriches the soil as it decomposes over time. Remember to keep mulch away from the plant stems to avoid potential rot issues.
• Give Veronicas water once a week, or more during drought or dry spells.
• Deadhead Veronica by trimming flowers back just below their base, as this will encourage further blooms. Be careful not to cut the tall varieties too low, as they are branched and this might cause them to not blossom during the next round of blooming.
• Veronica can also be planted in containers. For groundcover varieties, plant them along with other plants that grow in a upright or mounding habit. For spikey varieties, plant with other flowers that have the same growing needs.