Penstemons are happy in full sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soils, but will not tolerate particularly wet clay soils. To improve your soil you can add grit and extra organic matter to help with drainage. Water at least once a week during summer months, but much less during cooler periods – you can reduce watering once established. Mulch annually with well-rotted manure or leaf mould, and feed weekly in summer with a liquid fertiliser. Penstemons are short-lived perennials that can suffer in winter. To avoid losses, don’t cut back plants until spring. Take summer cuttings to prevent winter losses.