Plumbing Columbine

The query appears to be either a metaphor or a playful jab, seeing as you can't ask a location if it likes or dislikes something. In matters of plumbing, though, the reliable delivery of water—and the efficient, free drainage of wastewater—is a top concern for the residents and business owners of that community just south of Denver.

To snake drains in a house in Columbine, first get a plumbing snake or auger from a hardware store. Plumbing snakes look like a long cable with an auger on the end. A plumbing snake is actually the second in a series of tools used to clear a drain; it follows the use of a plunger, which should be used first. Once the plumber's snake has been thoroughly cleared, the drain can be retested. A successful clearing of a drain using a plumber's snake is usually followed by the sound of running water.

Columbines thrive in partial shade but can endure full sun in cooler climates. In hotter regions, though, shading them in the afternoon is a good idea to prevent the intense sunlight from scorching them.

Columbines prosper in well-drained soil; they like it loose and somewhat rocky. They are not picky about soil type, but you can improve growth by adding compost or a little mulch. Columbines are perfect for the morning sun and afternoon shade; they also thrive in dappled light. Because they like cool temperatures, they are perfect candidates for the eastern side of a path where they can be appreciated up close. You can also plant them along a similar path in morning sun and afternoon shade.

Deadheading—removing the spent blooms—is important to keep Ohio's state flower, the columbine, blooming for us all summer. Well-drained soil is essential. While the plants are native to the mountains, they do not like their feet wet. So, if you live in an area with heavy clay soil, consider better draining the planting site. Place the plants in some shade—again, this shade is very important, as the foliage needs a cool period to remain healthy. Columbine grows well in damp, wooded areas that aren't too hot, so strive to create those conditions.

Indeed, it is recommended to deadhead columbines. This process involves taking off the spent flowers in order to keep the plant blooming and pretty. "Deadhead" refers to the act of keeping the plant from setting seed. Some plants do so much self-seeding that they inhibit the flowering of their own species. Columbines, in particular, have a tendency to do this. If you don't mind a little more columbine in your life (and I don't), let it be.

Typically, columbines bloom just once per season, usually from late spring to early summer. After they bloom, they usually do not produce any more flowers that same season. Although they might extend their display just a bit by deadheading the spent flowers, these plants pretty much live by the adage "bloom once, and be done with it." Still, you can achieve a near-continuous display by interplanting them with other varieties that bloom at slightly different times.

Companion plants for columbine include ferns, hostas, and astilbe—plants that thrive in the same growing conditions and provide a shady, lush backdrop. Columbia is also a good pair with foxglove, lungwort, and hellebores in your woodland or shaded garden.

Pests could be the reason your columbine's leaves are disappearing. Several possible insects might be responsible. The most likely suspects are the larvae of the columbine sawfly, which feed on columbine and, if left unchecked, can quickly defoliate it. Other potential insect pests include leafcutter bees, which are unlikely to cause major damage; some beetles that may mistake columbines for members of the mustard family, which they usually feed on; and several other munching insects that may be drawn to the plant for one reason or another. Whether it's these sawfly larvae or some other insect that has the columbine bug, the situation is bad for the plant.

Columbine is primarily a cool-season plant. It does best in moderate climates, where temperatures are pleasant and there is guaranteed shade. Despite its love for cooler conditions, it can tolerate a bit of heat—just not excessive amounts of it. Columbine really starts to struggle with blooming and growth when the weather is too warm.