Lobelia fan scarlet - not growing well

I planted two lobelia fan scarlet last Summer. They have both started to grow but not well. The leaves are pale rather than deep. I thought it might be a slug problem but slug pellets don't seem to show sign of slugs.

I have put bark down. Could that be a problem? One plant is in sunshine and the other is mostly in shade. They both look identical. We also have two cats that have to use our small garden!! Could the acid be a problem? Can anyone advise?

Heidi

Re: Lobelia fan scarlet - not growing well

Reply from Kathy C

Hi, Heidi,
It could be a number of things. First, Lobelia x speciosa 'Fan Scharlach' is borderline hardy so if they were hit by cold/freezing/frosty conditions, they are showing the effects. Also, it is best to cut this plant back in autumn - it will then send up fresh, new growth in spring. Finally, they like consistently moist conditions and benefit from regualr feeding starting now. If you haven't already, add this to your 'Plants I Have' list (you have to log in) and you will get detailed monthly care instructions on what to do for it and when.
Kathy C