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Was Indian paintbrush, now Monarda didyma

In a message dated 99-01-11 12:11:31 EST, you write:

<< Monarda didyma, is another. The latter is quite susceptible to mildew 
 as the season progresses, but there are some resistant selections in 
 the nursery trade, if you're not being sticklish about local  genotypes. >>

What Mr. Trager says about Monarda and mildew is true.  Alas, I have found
that in the humid St. Louis summers even the "resistant" cultivars are covered
with powdery mildew by late season.   I tried every known environmentally-safe
control method before giving up and pulling it all.  I have carefully
established a naturally balanced garden with no serious pest problems and with
no  need for any control measures.  The Monarda had to go because it seemed to
be a magnet for mildew that then spread to other plant species.  Without it
the balance has been restored.   It is a truly wonderful plant and  worth a
try if you live in a less humid environment.  But do be warned and if you use
it, keep a watchful eye.

One more word on hummingbirds:  No matter how many attractive plants I grew,
we never had many hummingbirds in our suburban yard until I started hanging  a
hummingbird feeder on the porch.   Now from mid-August when they begin
migrating here our yard is abuzz with them and the family is entertained at
dinner as we watch them through the dining room window.  

--Janis
Webster Groves, Missouri
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