Left: B L A C K G U M
Center: P I N K Y W I N K Y H Y D R A N G E A
Right: P A W P A W T R E E
Fall is a Great Time to Plant Trees and Shrubs
L A N D S C A P E S
&
E X T E R I O R S
BY S TE VE C ALLOWAY
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hen planted in the fall, trees and shrubs push their energy into their root systems, which will continue to grow over the winter. This produces brighter, healthier growth above ground in the spring. Here are some terrific options for adding to the health and appearance of your yard.
TREES When planning where to put trees, consider available moisture in the soil, as well as sun and shade conditions. Evergreens and conifers like dry conditions, while river birch, black gum and paw paw trees need more moisture. Evergreens, including pines and
blue spruces, and also cherry trees, like full sun. Paw paw, a native tree species, prefers shade. The arbor vitae can take some shade, and hemlocks like even more.
Below Right: R I V E R B I R C H
tall and makes a nice border for a patio. It sports pink clusters in mid-summer, and its dried flowers can be used in floral arrangements for the Holidays. Bayberry is an evergreen that bears white berries in the fall. Winterberry holly is a deciduous shrub that loses its leaves in the fall, then produces bright red berries retained until Christmas. The leaves on autumn brilliance serviceberry turn a bright sunset orange in the fall.
If you want to attract butterflies, some trees are a big draw. The paw paw is the host plant for the zebra swallowtail butterfly caterpillar. Tiger swallowtail butterfly hosts are cherry trees and wafer ash. FLOWERING AND BERRY-BEARING SHRUBS Shrubs provide nice color for your yard. The pinky winky hydrangea gets 4 to 5 feet
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26 STEVE CALLOWAY is owner of Garden Green Horticulture Service. They help homeowners select the plants, trees and shrubs that best meet their aesthetic desires and will thrive in their sunlight, soil and moisture conditions. They also revitalize and restore gardens, to help homeowners with changes that will make their yards better year after year. You can call or email Steve for a complimentary consultation in your yard, to identify your plants and advise on how to keep them healthy and looking their best. You can reach him at 314-288-5036 or garden_green@live.com.
