Jen Loo, I always cut down the stalks of 'Hummelo' when the flowers are spent. The initial planting of a potted perennial can be a factor. Am guessing, however, that inadequate watering could be the reason. I have almost no experience with planting herbaceous perennials in mulch-covered beds. Still what's there looks fine for next year. Perhaps more watering may help the plant out at this stage.

Have found Stachys monieri 'Hummelo' a great perennial for mixed perennial beds. So far it seems surprisingly long-lived here. Several other garden Stachys are actually very long lived here ; big betony (Stachys macrantha) is a great survivor and the flower is quite attractive.

Thanks for the response. Fingers crossed it comes back next year. A portion of it is looking more alive than the rest. I don't think I'm underwatering. I've been adding clearance finds in that area the last few weeks and have been watering regularily but not too much (I hope).

if you are digging holes to plant bargains.. i dont understand how you cant know.. how much moisture is in your soil.. at the depth the roots will be ... or whether the soil you disturb is dry or wet ...

all plants need a watering in ... and then.. with the info you have.. you should have some sort of idea how much watering they need ...

in the mean time.. insert finger.. and make sure its damp.. but not sodden ... it will be easy around plants you just planted ...

keep in mind ... as nights start falling into the 50s .. and 40s .... and the heat of the day wanes... your soil simply isnt going to be drying at depth .. like it did in july and august ...

just start having faith in the info you have in your hand.. literally ....

just before you put the hose away in october.. give everything a good deep drink ...

as to the plant above.. all it looks like.. is that the rest of the flower stems browned out ... most likely normal ... had you cut them lower .. lol .. you wouldnt now be seeing it.. and worrying ...the rest of it looks perfect for fall ...

ken

Maybe something happened while you were trimming, I wouldn't worry too much though since these are pretty hardy plants and the other side does look very healthy. I bet next year it will come back so strongly you won't even remember this happening!

Thanks for the reply katbo. I'm less concerned now.

I agree that it will probably be fine! Mine looked a little ratty the first year, but have been very hardy since.