Mid-Atlantic Gardening: What did I do wrong?, 1 by rcn48

rcn48 wrote:
michael, would have to agree with hart - looks like more of a problem with too much sun. Epimediums are a little tough to get started but once they get themselves established are one of the easiest plants to grow and they spread quickly! I have to say that even in shade, ours look a little "rough" by the end of summer - similar to your photo. If you check the crown of the plant right at the soil surface, you should find plenty of "eyes" that will flush with the new foliage in spring. You might even find that the "dead" plant still has dormant "eyes" that will send out new foliage in the spring. Some people cut the old foliage off in the spring just as the fresh foliage is coming on, but if you decide to leave it, the new foliage will quickly 'disguise' the old ratty foliage. Can't find any pictures of the Epimediums growing in our gardens right now (note to self: need to organize folders of photos over the winter!). Here's one I took at AHS River Farm in Alexandria a couple of years ago - think it was Epimedium 'Frohnleiten'? These are growing in a full shade garden and show the fresh spring foliage.

Debbie