Poor performance of perennials the second year is most often due to your winter weather, drainage issues or lack of fertilizer. In your area of Western Washington, a lot of rainfall in soil that drains poorly or that is in a low spot that collects water will cause overwintering perennials to rot. Poor fertility is often due to the tree roots of cedar or fit spreading into the area you planted your perennials. If you want to grow perennials near large trees try planting them in large containers so they won't have to compete with tree roots. Raising the soil level and adding compost mixed with sand is one way to encourage better drainage in wet areas. Don't give up, with a little work you can have happy perennials year after year. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti