Probably all the snow we had this winter protected the Nikkos. Everyone is having a great year! It was mother nature one way or another! After this year maybe you will consider some winter protection. Expecially after you see the show they put on this year! I do well with double burlap and filling with leaves. Also I use some stakes to help hold it all up and tie all the canes up/together.

The ES need a couple years to get established. Usually their 2nd/3rd years are growing years. They will eventually bloom on new growth. But if you winter protect them you will get blooms earlier in the year! Although I do not winter protect my ES/rebloomers.

Drat... I was hoping it was something I did...regardless, I'll enjoy the blooms this year and take your suggestions for some more winter protections this fall. Thanks!