Heavenly Delphiniums. Dreamy blues range from sky blue to deep ocean blue. Their color is like a siren's song -- and as it tempts us, there can also be trouble.

Delphiniums are well known as "maintenance magnets." But who listens when you see those tall, luscious spires of blue in a catalog or growing in a neighbor's yard?

Delphiniums are a genus of perennials and annuals that are loved for their magic wands of blooms that float like butterflies above clumps of bright green foliage.

Delphinium elatum is a hybrid usually seen in Midwest gardens.

This plant is loved for its deep indigo flowers but also comes in a large range of colors, including violet, pale blue, pink, yellow and creamy white. 'Blue Fountains Strain' is a dwarf Delphinium that performs well in heat and is recommended for our Midwest climate.

Hybrids such as D. x beladonna 'Bellamosum' boast wiry stems that branch out with looser and more delicate flower spikes. Generally, this hybrid is not as prone to disease as the D. elatum.

Delphiniums provide excellent vertical interest in the cottage or the more formal garden. Dwarf varieties will be sturdier; thereby, avoiding staking the blooms. They love full sun but love a cooler season to reach their full potential.

And who doesn't?

Read Green, Live Green, Chicago's Summer Reading Program for 2008

The Chicago Public Library presents a summer program about the environment called "Read Green, Live Green," for adults and children.
Along with reading books and lively discussion, the children's program offers other fun events with an environmental theme:
• Author Carol Lerner teaches kids to attract butterflies to their gardens.
• Artist Lea Atiq shows children the importance of plants when they learn how to make a Secret Garden book.
For more information, visit www.chicagopubliclibrary.org or call (312) 747-4907.

'Best Pick' perennials for Midwest gardens

Richard Hawke, plant evaluation manager at the Chicago Botanic Garden, offers his expertise on a variety of perennials that are proven to be hardy and beautiful for our Midwest gardens. Come and learn from the expert.

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 14

Where: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe

More information: (847) 835-5440; www.chicagobotanic.org.