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Hardenbergia comptoniana dying

A three-year old H. componiana is dying. It covers a fence about 12 ft by 5
feet and always before has been very vigorous.

The past winter we had a freeze on Jan 1 and the area of the vine near the
top of the fence suffered frost damage. I waited for it to dry up and then
gently shook off the brown, dead leaves. It bloomed profusely as usual,
finishing about one month ago. I thought we were just fine.  Yet, during
that bloom period, more and more leaves began browning and falling off. Now
I'd say about 40 % of the vine is affected.  I see no signs of any pest
infestation.

The only thing I can think of is perhaps a difference in watering. We've
had little rain here this spring and I've had to irrigate regularly since
February. My normal pattern is to water infrequently but deeply. While the
top portion of the bed it's in is fairly well amended, the basic soil
pattern here is clay.  Perhaps it got more water than it's used to, that's
the only thing I can think of.

This vine is one of my favorites. Unlike H. violacea, the leaves are a
vivid shiny green all year long -- pruning it usually a matter of
"whacking" it back -- it's been so vigorous.  The dark violet flowers are a
visual feast for about 8 weeks each spring.

Does anyone have any suggestions. I'm just sick to lose this favorite plant.

Regards, Carol


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