Question
I live in KY and need a flowering perennial no more than 12" tall to plant in brick planters that get full sun.  I planted platycodon "Miss Tilly Blue" that looked great last year but this year they are way too tall and falling over even though it said they would grow 10-12" tall.  They are at least 24" tall.  I love the long lasting blooms and are a great accent to my patio but too tall.  Do you have any suggestions on something to replace them?

Answer
Hi Cindy,
Thanx for your question.  I recommend dianthus which come in many different colors and designs and form nice, short mounds.  They are easily started from seed and are also available as already grown plants.  Dianthus are also known as pinks and they do include Sweet Williams which are biennial and carnations so make sure they are strictly dianthus or pinks.  Pinks are not all pink either!  I hope this helps.
Tom