which spread almost as far, are capable of destroying plumbing pipes and concrete slabs. Their spectacular spring blooms tempt many to plant the Asian varieties, and later rue the day. “What is your explanation for the spectacular, lush garden and tree growth on Capitol Hill in 2013?” We had a cool winter and a long cool spring, with enough rain – but not too much. The spring blossoms got to develop slowly and stay for longer – even tulips were extraordinary this spring.
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“I read somewhere that the mainstay of a shade garden, impatiens, in many vibrant colors and also white, is at risk this year, and not being widely sold.” Impatiens, long disease free, is so no longer. Over the past two years a downy mildew has ravaged impatiens beds, by the end of 2012 encompassing 33 streets in DC. The mildew thrives in the coastal climate of the Midatlantic states. Best advice: try begonias. The next public meeting of the Capitol Hill Garden Club is Sept. 10. Membership details are at 202-544-4261. Feeling beset by gardening problems? Send them to the Problem Lady c/o the Capitol Hill Garden Club at andrew@hillrag.com. Your problems might prove instructive to others and help them feel superior to you. Complete anonymity is assured. H
HillRag | June 2013 H 141