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A Closer Look at Winter Damage

But first, take a look at this gorgeous rainbow that we had on Friday! The five-day stretch of warm temperatures last week really jump-started the garden. Now that plants are putting out new growth, it is easier to see what kind of damage the winter left. Back in mid-January, we experienced five straight days of below-freezing temperatures. This caused much damage in Portland and areas where frigid winds were a factor. Here, we were fortunate to not get the wind and the cold temperatures were dampened by a blanket of snow. That said, it was a tough time for the garden and there are noticeable casualties but no outright deaths that I have seen. The bottlebrush ( Callistemon 'Woodlander's Red') did not like the cold at all. It was planted six years ago, in the north-facing garden no less, and I've not experienced die-back on it until now. A local expert said to cut it all the way back so that is what I did. If it doesn't make it, I won't be too distraught. It is

Pruning the St. John's Wort


The St. John's Wort (Hypericum 'Pumpkin') was one of my favorite shrubs last summer, a real stunner in early July. I'm hoping for a repeat this year and pruned it a few days ago. I had planned to take it back about halfway but after watching some videos, I found that most people cut it completely back to the ground. Which is what I did.

Before -


 

 And after -

Another good reason for pruning it is to be able to see Rhododendron 'PJM'. It looks puny here but since this was taken, the blooms have opened more and it is looking better. Maybe it felt crowded.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Comments

  1. You are a brave soul. A second "after" photo in early July is a must.

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  2. Wow. St John's Wort never grew like that in my garden. I hope you get another fabulous summer display.

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  3. Gosh I wonder if my St John's Wort will get this big?? I doubt it but glad to know you can cut it down if need be.

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  4. It's a beauty. Great it can take a total refresh. Yes, a July photo will be a must.

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  5. That St. John's wort was a beauty in bloom. I've tried growing it before but never that successfully. Obviously, it is happy in your garden.

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  6. I have never prunned my St. John's wort. Maybe I need to try it on one of mine and see how it performs. Mine SJW have gotten rust in the past and then they slowly decline.

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