Violas tend to get tall and then fall over if they want more sun, or sometimes just because they do that. You can cut them way back. They probably won't bloom again until the weather cools off somewhat.

I don't know that particular dianthus - is it perennial, biennial or annual? The perennial varieties can be sheared back, then most will rebloom. Annual and biennial can be sheared back and may or may not rebloom; biennnials are more likely to rebloom than annuals but that isn't exactly reliable either. Your dianthus may be reaching for the sun also, if it's in less than full sun.

I don't know about the trollius.

In general, plants that are in less sun than they like will reach out for the sun. They may get taller than they normally do, and grow sideways toward the sun. The best long-term option is to move them into full sun, if you can't cut down the tree or whatever is making the shade.

Jeanne

Phyl, Violas prefer shade of filtered light. They'll take morning sun; but, don't like the hot afternoon sun here in our hot humid summers. They should bloom for you all summer. They do best in moist locations.

The dianthus, Helen, is a sweet little thing. Because the stems are a little wiry, they require support netting. Suggest Hortonova netting for these pretty little gems.

I saw Trollius on a garden show last winter, and had them marked in the Walters Garden catalog. I didn't get any ordered this season. They certainly are pretty. Walters say, "Good subject for waterside or bog gardens or other sites as long as it remains constantly moist." They prefer full to partial sun. And, they should get 30-36" tall, and are great as cuts. So, yes, 5' is unusual. We have a boggy wetland area. Once again I have added it to my list of wants.

Jeanne and Patricia,
Thanks so much for writing me back....
All the plants I mentioned are in full sun, all day long!
The dianthus is perennial....guess I'll cut them down soon....the trollius is almost all bloomed out, just couldn't believe its height! Think I'll cut the other dianthus and violas back...thanks again! :0) Phyl