On to my questions - I want to replace my heaths, but I don't know if summer or fall planting is the best for heaths.

Also I am looking for a heath which will bloom (Southern MA) during a mild winter or at least in the late winter. I live in Zone 6 by the USDA maps, but the more experienced local nursery guys say I am in zone 5.

Thanks in advance

Many folks, esp in New England, lost heaths and heathers over this past brutal winter.

Erica Carneas should be hardy for you, and are winter bloomers. Check heathsandheathers.com and/or rockspray... either should have a good selection.

Karla Lortz of H&H.com does not recommend summer planting -- I believe the primary issue is keeping them moist in hot/dry summer weather. They don't like to dry out until established.

But I *think* that if you keep them well watered, planting now would be OK.

Hope that helps, and good luck!