Question
last year I planted 2 English lavender plants. they both did well last year and doubled in size this year. I planted 2 more this year, they were doing well also. Then, I added some new compost and topsoil to my garden because I was going to do more planting, we also added mulch. Immediately afterwards my lavender started to die, 1 by 1 they began turning grey in color. Now I have nothing left but big grey lumps. what do you think happened. Do you think  hey will come back next year? Should I just did them up and be done with them?

Answer
Dear Stacey,
 Dig a little around the base of the dying plant.  Does it appear that the root system is still in place?  If one is dead-dig it up and study it.  My bet is that some pesky bug was introduced to your soil from the topsoil or compost.  
  I once had a beautiful, huge patch of bright pink chrysanthemums and the next summer not even one root was there-just dirt!!
  If this is the case, go to your local nursery for a insecticide.

Sijka