One of our biggest challenges with plants in this climate is mildew, particularly on phlox. Did you know that Highlands not only has the most species of salamanders in the world but also the most different varieties of molds and mildews of any other area in the world? The 100" of rain we receive in the areas certainly adds to the abundance and populations of these moisture loving species. Living in a temperate rainforest has its advantages in regards to biodiversity by also has its disadvantages when you are growing certain plants or trying to keep a basement or crawl space dry!