Silver Mound Artemisia Decline: Crown Rot from Excess Moisture

A silver mound (Artemisia schmidtiana 'Silver Mound') in Maine has dwindled to a few tufts after heavy rain.

Cause: Crown Rot

• Artemisia demands excellent drainage and dry conditions between waterings.
• Prolonged wetness rots the crown (where stems meet roots).

Remedy

• Improve drainage: amend soil with coarse sand or grit.
• Plant on a slight mound.
• Reduce watering; let soil dry out.

Silver mound is a “silver sweetheart” in the garden—give it the dry, sunny spot it craves.