This is the north bed, the one with the Maple root problem. Many of the plants here are stunted when compared to the south bed. Impatiens, the Hakonechloa and Carex in particular lack vigor. The bare areas typically yield a heavy ‘crop’ of Maple seedlings. The majority of the sound surface is troubled by few weeds. Only the Podophyllum requires a little more active management as it slowly, but persistently expands. These are relatively easy to remove and remain high value plants. The Alpinia can be frozen back in colder winters. Keep in mind the downtown is a heat island and tends to be warmer than most other areas of Portland.