We are trying for the third time to find a successful location for Bunchberry. Our first attempt resulted in a plant that barely held on while getting smaller each year. Our second try featured bare root plants since our supplier located in the mid west could not ship plants in pots because of an invasion of jumping worms. Those plants just died during their first year here. This plant is by far the largest that we have ever seen. If more than one plant had been in stock, we would have purchased three. Perhaps when we return new stock will have arrived. If not, we will go with just one plant.
Reading has given us additional information that might improve this plants chances of survival here. We have no control over our elevation above sea level so this plant will have to adjust to where we are. We can control the soil and this spot was filled with a mix of soil taken from under a Hemlock tree and a White Pine. Poor acidic soil is reported to be where Bunchberry thrives in the wild. A White Pine supplied the top mulch as shown by the cone. This plant began to separate into pieces as the potting medium was rinsed clear but it was planted as a single unit. Now we watch and wait hoping that the third time is the charm.
We were concerned about these Jack In The Pulpits. Last year, following a generous set of bright red berries, something walked here and broke all of the plants. The surface was littered with plant parts. As is sometimes the case, worry was not warranted. Eight beautiful plants have held their ground and are off to an impressive start this year. Low temperatures and rain are in the forecast for the next several nights. Perhaps the rain will offset the negative effects of cold air. No seeds will follow if these plants experience frost. This is intended to be a native plant garden growing as if they were in the wild so no protective cover will be in place. Here again we will watch and wait.
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