Amazing contrast, Rouge.

From interesting to beautiful.

I've kind of come to the conclusion this past winter was hard for people, but that doesn't necessarily translate to a winter tough on plants. My losses were minimal and really nothing out of the ordinary. In fact, the last few weeks I have been amazed at how huge and lush everything is this year. The survivors really didn't seem to suffer that much. In fact, maybe it gave them an incentive to grow like they've never grown before. (I'm sure all the rain has helped, but I don't think it's the only factor at play.)

Kevin

Kevin, there is no doubt that significant continuing snow cover helped perennials but this wouldn't have been much help to trees and taller shrubs. I am disappointed to have lost the top half of my Acer palmatum 'Filigree Green Lace'. The bottom branches, all insulated with that snow are lush and green and the unprotected upper branches are barren.

I just got your reference to Star Wars, Rouge! One of my favorites. :-) Sorry about your Acer palmatum. I have not grown that type but I thought they were slow growing and the form is of particular interest. So will you be able to salvage it with pruning or do you think it is ruined?