Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom

Strange experience with blue Anemone nemorosa.
Back in 2009, the gardener we were then using was preparing to plant 20 Anemone nemorosa in a small area of our woodland garden. The pots in which they were sent were showing no signs of life so it was decided to wait until the leaves began to show before planting. Eventually this happened and 15 of the pots were shoowing healthy growth and were planted. It was reported to the supplier that five of the pots were showimg no sign of life and they were replaced. We decided not to plant them at the time, but keep then in the pots as replacements for any of the others that might fail. This year we watched eagerly for the plants to appear and flower but became increasingly apprehensive when the ones in the open ground were lagging badly behind the ones we had kept back. Eventually only about four plants in the garden showed some growth with 1 producing a flower while all the 5 in pots were merrily flowering.
Only one other snag became apparent - they were white and not 'Blue Beauty' as claimed by the labels. Protests to the supplier were made and they have promised to send replacements later in May/June when they became dormant.
When they arrive we will have to replant, but I am very concerned about replanting the same area. The ground would seem to be ideal. Partly shaded and neutral and everything else planted in that area is thriving.
What would you do, folks?

• 20 Apr, 2011