Benoit and Sabrina's garden project by Mika Mika

GARDE N PROJ E CT byLaur aMi r on

Tabel of contents 1. Shrubs ..................................................................................................... 3 2. Trees ........................................................................................................ 11 3. Flowers.....................................................................................................17 4. Plants for poolside...............................................................................23 5. Grass ....................................................................................................... 31 6. Tips about gardening........................................................................ 35

2011

SHRUBS

Physocarpus opulifolium

ENGLISH NAMES: Diablo Ninebark Eastern Ninebark DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Diablo ninebark is a broadleaf, deciduous flowering shrubs.

The plant has a low canopy, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.

Prune to shape after blooming, since it blooms on the prior year's wood. Or if you don't mind sacrificing flowers for one year in order to make your plants more compact, prune back to ground level in winter (rejuvenation pruning). You can let these bushes "go wild," rather than pruning meticulously.

A large spreading shrub with intensely purple leaves all season long which emerge burgundy in spring, small white flowers from late spring to early summer followed by pretty reddish fruit which show well against the foliage, and interesting peeling papery bark. It features abundant showy red capsules from early to mid fall. Extremely tough and durable, makes a superb color accent.

Likewise, while Diablo ninebark will perform better in a well-drained soil, it's relatively good at tolerating wet soil (the species is sometimes listed as a wetland plant in the wild) and even tolerates some drought.

This shrub will require occasional maintenance. In spring cut off the damaged or dead leaves back to the base of the plantČ&#x2122; like this the plant would benefit from a mulch for

Forsythia suspensa

PLANT REQUIREMENTS ENGLISH NAMES: Forsythia Golden Bells DESCRIPTION Border forsythias are deciduous shrubs. This early bloomer sport the vibrant yellow flowers that have become a fixture of our spring dreams. Border forsythias are fastgrowing shrubs with an upright form. Their flowers precede their leaves. f left to their own devices, forsythia plants take on a rather wild-looking shape, as branches shoot out this way and that. Most people prefer this wild look, pruning forsythia bushes only sparingly. Through regular pruning, you can shape forsythia bushes to conform to a more regular shape, if you so choose.

Forsythia plants grow best in full sun and a well-drained soil. It can rich the heigh of 3 m but by pruning you can control the shape and the dimensions. CARE AND PRUNING Pruning of forsythia bushes is best done just after they've finished putting on their flower display in spring, because they bloom on the prior year's growth (pruning either too late or too early interrupts the growth/blooming cycle). Begin by pruning 1/4 to 1/3 of oldest branches, pruning them right down to the ground. This will encourage new growth and a more compact form. Beyond this "renewal pruning," you can also selectively cut newer branches in order to improve upon the overall shape of your forsythia plants.

Note that annual pruning is by no means mandatory. If you're happy with your forsythia shrubs as they are, you may wish to go several years between prunings. Note also that there's an additional incentive for pruning forsythia shrubs just after their spring blooms start to fade, beyond wishing not to interrupt the growth/blooming cycle. This is the time when it's easiest to tell the newest branches apart from the older. Only the older branches will have blooms; the first-year branches won't have any yet, so you have a graphic reminder to avoid pruning them. HOW TO PLANT The plant you need to soak it in a bucket of water for 30 minutes to make sure the roots are saturated, you should never plant dry roots. Plant to same depth as soil level in pot and water regularly until established.

Syringa vulgaris â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Wedgewood Blueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

ENGLISH NAME: Lilac DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Most lilacs are deciduous flowering shrubs. Flower color is lavender-blue, and the flowers are contained in thick clusters.

Blooming time is late spring to early summer. The leaves are dark green, but this shrub is grown first and foremost for the fragrance of its flowers and their beauty, not its foliage. One of the most unforgettable aromas of the plant world!

Prune right after blooming is over. In addition to branch pruning, cut the dead flowers off when they're done blooming. This will prevent the seed from forming and thereby promote more profuse flowering the next spring.

Grow lilac bushes in full sun. They prefer a rich, well-drained soil with a neutral pH, with a preference for a chalky clay soil but they will tolerate most soils except those which are acidic. Easy to grow. Once established, the Lilac Tree requires little care and rarely suffers from pests and disease.

Look for a fertilizer that has phosphorus, P. Apply recommended amount for plant per label directions in the soil at time of planting or at least during the first growing season.

The 'Wedgewood Blue' variety has a compact growth habit. But because of the height some varieties of lilac bushes attain at maturity, people sometimes refer to them as "lilac trees." They should not, however, be confused with the true "tree lilacs": Japanese tree lilacs (Syringa reticulata) and Chinese tree lilacs (Syringa pekinensis).

Laurus nobilis

ENGLISH NAME: Sweet Bay Laurel DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

An evergreen shrub growing at a slow rate The flowers of the Bay laurel and a pale yellow color although they tend to fade and brown fairly quickly.

The plant prefers light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and requires well-drained soil.

Be aware that without pruning the tree will grow to 12m high by 10m wide. If left to grow this big, it will also take the soil nutrients for several metres around.

A spicy, aromatic flavouring, bay leaves are commonly used as a flavouring for soups, stews etc. The leaves can be used fresh or are harvested in the summer and dried. The flavour of freshly dried, crushed or shredded leaves is stronger than fresh leaves, but the leaves should not be stored for longer than a year since they will then lose their flavour.

The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils.. It can grow in semi-shade or sun. The plant can tolerates strong winds and snow.

The Bay tree is however very suited to pruning, and can be kept to any height and width if suitable pruning is carried out. Prune to shape each spring. During the first two years, the leaves should be harvested in moderate.

Wisteria sinensis

ENGLISH NAME: Chinese Wisteria â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Wistariaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; vines DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

It is classified as a deciduous perennial. Chinese wisterias are twining climbers that can wind their way at least 7.5 m up a support. Supports must be sturdy, because the mature vines are considerably heavy. A distinction needs to be made between Chinese wisteria vines (Wisteria sinensis) and Japanese wisteria vines (Wisteria floribunda), on the one hand, and American wisteria vines (Wisteria frutescens), on the other.

Likes full sun and a slightly acidic, rich, welldrained soil.

If you encounter the problem of inducing Chinese wisteria to flower (a common problem), try applying a fertilizer high in phosphorus (the middle number in the NPK sequence on fertilizer bags) in early spring. Also try pruning a couple of times each year (in early summer after blooming, and when dormant in winter) to stimulate budding for next year. Root pruning in late fall is sometimes suggested, too, as a stimulant for stubborn vines that just seem to refuse to blossom! There shouldn't be any temptation to let the vines grow beyond reasonable bounds because it is an invasive plant.

Chinese wisteria plants are such vigorous growers that it is not recommended that you let them climb up a porch or the side of your house. Instead, let them grow on a garden arbor away from the house. Such arbors, roofed by Chinese wisteria plants, are a perfect focal point.

Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Goldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

ENGLISH NAME: Euonymus DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Emerald 'n' Gold euonymus shrubs have broadleaf foliage and are considered evergreen shrubs.

Grow Emerald 'n' Gold euonymus shrubs in well-drained soils. While they're not fussy about sun vs. shade, they will produce their best color display if planted in full sun.

Although they can achieve somewhat larger dimensions by maturity (if left unpruned), Emerald 'n' Gold euonymus shrubs are most often pruned to be kept compact.

Emerald 'n' Gold euonymus shrubs are showy enough to warrant their use as specimen plants, if used in odd-numbered groupings. Emerald 'n' Gold euonymus shrubs shouldn't be confused with Euonymus fortunei var. radicans, although both are sometimes referred to as "wintercreeper". Radicans is a climbing vine and considered a highly invasive plant.

The beautiful variegated foliage may revert to plain old green on new shoots. When this occurs, simply prune off the green shoots. Fortunately, Emerald 'n' Gold euonymus shrubs are very amenable to pruning

Some of the plants' numerous, rigid branches shoot more or less straight up into the air, while others hug the ground before curling upwards at their tips. The trademark of Emerald 'n' Gold euonymus shrubs is their variegated foliage -- green on the inside, golden on the outside (the gold tends to fade on older leaves). A touch of pink may come into the leaves in fall or winter.

Buxus sempervirens

ENGLISH NAME: English boxwoods DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

English boxwoods are evergreen dwarf shrubs. and also broad-leaf evergreens.

This shrubs require well-drained soils, or they'll suffer from root rot.

English boxwood shrubs are prized for their densely packed light-green leaves and rounded, compact growth habit.

Their amenability to pruning makes them popular in knot gardens and as topiary and bonsai plants. Other uses for English boxwood shrubs extend beyond the life of the plant. As a cut evergreen for the holiday season, English boxwood is used in wreaths, garlands, kissing balls and topiary "tree" arrangements.

Pruning is done for aesthetic purposes, but as a practical issue, remember to mulch English boxwood shrubs. Their roots are shallow, so they must be protected from the heat. A common problem for English boxwood shrubs is "winter bronzing," manifested by a change in foliage color to a reddish-brown or yellowish. It is the result of exposure in winter to wind and sun. First of all, spray an anti-desiccant on English boxwood shrubs in late November and again in late January, and make sure your plants are watered sufficiently throughout the growing season. Winter bronzing doesn't kill English boxwood shrubs, but is unsightly. Normal green foliage should, however, return in spring on new growth. Just prune out the damaged foliage.

A true dwarf, English boxwood shrubs are slow-growing plants that are easily shaped by pruning -a desirable characteristic for hedges and topiaries.

TREES

Acer japonicum 'Aconitifolium'

ENGLISH NAMES: Full Moon Maple Fernleaf Full-Moon Maple DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Fernleaf full moon maple is a bold and beautiful deciduous tree. Its most outstanding quality is undoubtedly its foliage, for its deeply dissected leaves create a rich texture in the landscape and earn it the names “fernleaf”and “leaves like an aconites.” New twigs are reddish but mature to grey. Like those of many maples, its red flowers are subtle and appear in early spring. But in autumn, the bright green leaves of this handsome tree explode into color – showing off shades of red and orange tinged with purple and yellow.

It is a slow-growing tree

Pinch out the tips of new shoots when one or two pairs of leaves have formed completely to retain shape or encourage ramification.

The soil has to be well drained, slight acidic. Some organic matter (conifer bark, chopped sphagnum moss- not peat moss), but not enough to become waterlogged. Pure akadama can be used if careful attention is paid to watering and fertilizing. It has to be protected from cold winds and very cold days of winter. Particulary for your garden I would recomand to grow them in containers and in winter to keep them inside untill spring. This requiers a transplantation in bigger containers every year.

Water fernleaf full moon maple regularly for its first two growing seasons and during subsequent summer dry spells. Stake for more upright growth, or leave alone to create a cascade of foliage. Prune only from late autumn to mid-winter.

Acer platanoides Emerald Queen

ENGLISH NAMES: Nordwat Maple DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

'Emerald Queen' is a fast growing, deciduous, tree with an oval-rounded outline with ascending branches. The leaf petiole secretes a milky juice when broken. The autumn colour is usually yellow, occasionally orange-red. The fruit is a double samara with two winged seeds. It typically produces a large quantity of viable seeds Its maximum age of around 250 years.

Tolerant of poor soils and harsh environmental conditions. The tree is easily transplanted, grows quickly, is adapted to a wide variety of soils (including alkaline) and has brilliant yellow fall color unmatched by most trees. It has very good resistant to pests/diseases. The shallow roots can heave sidewalks so be certain to locate the tree at least 1.5-1.8 meters away.

Lateral branches grow upright while the tree is young which minimizes the pruning requirement. The Acer platanoides and is pruned in summer or a few months before the leaves come forth in view of 'bleeding' as a result of the strong internal pressure of the sap flow, a characteristic of this species.

Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan'â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

ENGLISH NAMES: Japanese cherry tree Oriental cherry tree Japanese Flowering Weeping Cherry DESCRIPTION A vigorous deciduous small to medium-sized tree with an upright habit when young and wider canopy when older. In spring the tree is laden with large double, purplish-pink showy flowers shortly before the bronze foliage appears. the leaves turn red in autumn. This cultivar, Kanzan, has flowers sterile and do not bear fruits.

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

A great specimen tree planted in grass. It grows best in chalky soils and can widstand a partial shade.

Any pruning or remedial work should be done in summer to reduce the risk of bacterial canker. Also by prunning it can be controled the wanted shape of the tree and the size of growing.

Cornus kousa â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wolf Eyesâ&#x20AC;?

ENGLISH NAMES: Kousa dogwood Chinese dogwood DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Chinese dogwoods are broadleaf, flowering, deciduous trees. Cornus kousa flowers in late spring to early summer, for a period as long as 6 weeks. The credit for the white "floral" show, though, goes not to the actual flowers, but rather to "bracts" (which, to the observer not thinking in botanical terms, look like petals). The berry that succeeds flowering is raspberry-like in appearance. Foliage is variegated. In autumn, the leaves develop streaks ranging in color from pink to red. Combined with the variegated foliage (white margin, light green interior) of Wolf Eyes Cornus kousa, the white bracts produce a dazzling display.

Plant Cornus kousa in partial shade and in a well-drained, acidic soil. A slow growing tree that stays compact.

Provide Wolf Eyes Cornus kousa with sufficient water during hot spells. While its leaf margins are supposed to be wavy, sometimes the leaves can curled excessively during their second summer due to insufficient water. In cases of extreme drought, kousa dogwood leaves will turn brown along their margins.

Salix matsudana Tortuosa

ENGLISH NAMES: Corkscrew Willow DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

A fast growing deciduous tree. The branches and twigs grow in a spiral, twisting manner. As a result of the ornamental shape of the branches and twigs, this cultivar is commonly used as a bonsai plant and for floral arrangements. The young shoots are famous for use in flower arrangements. They both look great and last almost forever: they put out roots in the vase and carry on growing! It has a beautiful silhouette when tree has no leaves in winter.

Likes full sun. Once established, needs only occasional watering. The cultivar `Pendula' has a fine-texture weeping form reminiscent of a water garden. Plant it near water to create a quieting effect.

The tree is propagated by cuttings. Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Feed regularly during the growing season with a general purpose fertilizer. Prune annually in late winter to promote vigorous new growth

FLOWERS

Rhododendron catawbiense

ENGLISH NAMES: Azaleas Rhododendrons DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Azalea is a broadleaf evergreen bush that has dark green, leathery foliage, and spring flowers that are great for attracting hummingbirds.

ThisPLANT rhododendron shrub is easy to transplant, REQUIREMENTS but it does require an acidic soil and prefers a shady location.

Begin by pruning off dead or injured branches, CARE which could cause disease and insect problems in the future. Then prune back tall, gangly limbs shooting out of the top of the bush. This will promote a more attractive, compact shape.

Flowers can be white, lavender, rose or the red. These are poisonous plants - do not allow children to ingest any of the azaleas. The green of its summer foliage yields to a mahogany color in winter -- a plus for a year-round interest on your landscape.

A good time to fertilize azaleas and rhododendrons is right after they have finished blooming. Mulching with acidic mulches, such as pine strawan is essential part of proper care for azalea. The roots of these plants need the protection that mulch affords against extremes of heat and cold -- and against drying out.

Hydrangea macrophylla

ENGLISH NAMES: Hydrangeas DESCRIPTION Broadleaf, deciduous flowering shrubs. The showy parts are actually not flowers, but rather sepals that persist for months. The "flower" clusters usually first appear in July. Despite bearing a cultivar name indicating that they're blue hydrangeas, flower color really depends on soil pH. Because they consist mainly of sepals, the flower heads persist through fall (although the color will fade), adding interest to the autumn landscape; they can be harvested for dried arrangements.

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Requires average amount of watering. PLANTanREQUIREMENTS Grow in partial shade and in a loamy, welldrained soil enriched with humus.

Successfully CARE grow it without providing mulch for it specifically and without applying a tree wrap for winter protection. However, there have been reported problems with bud loss due to cold winter weather, so wrapping with burlap is advised.

If you want bright pink flowers make sure your soil is alkaline. That means you have to use dolomitic lime several times year to reach pH 6.0-6.4. If it goes above that your plant may suffer from chlorosis. If you want clear sky-blue blossoms grow it in pure peat because blue colour needs acid soil. You could get a soil acidifier in your local garden centre and use it until you reach pH value 5.2-5.5.

H. macrophylla blooms on old wood. Buds are set in late summer to early fall, so prune prior to this (if you feel you have to prune at all). If you prune after the buds have been set, you risk losing flowers for next year (but, as always, dead branches can be pruned out at any time).

Lavandula angustifolia

ENGLISH NAMES: Lavender DESCRIPTION Lavandula angustifolia is classified as an evergreen shrub, since this perennial produces woody stems above-ground. In general, Lavandula angustifolia bears flowers that are lilac-blue in color and grow on spikes, with leaves that are narrow and greyish-green. But various cultivars exist, differing in characteristics. Butterflies are attracted to this aromatic herb. Fortunately, ants dislike the smell of lavender, making it a possible weapon for organic ant control.

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Grow in fullREQUIREMENTS sun and an alkaline, sandy, wellPLANT drained soil. They are also drought-tolerant, which is why they're such a good choice in rock gardens.

For the dried use of this perennial, harvest the CARE flowers just as they open, and hang them to dry in a dark room with plenty of ventilation. Dampness can come in the form of wet roots during the winter months or high humidity in the summer. If humidity is a problem, make sure you have plenty of space between your plants for air flow. Protect th roots from freezeing appling a layer of mulch after the ground initially freezes. In your area lavender suffers some winter dieback,so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prune it until you see some new green growth at the base of the plant. If you disturb the plants too soon in the season, they give up trying.

It thrives in warm, well-drained soil and full sun. Like many plants grown for their essential oils, a lean soil will encourage a higher concentration of oils. An alkaline and especially chalky soil will enhance lavenders fragrance.

Hybrid tea, Floribunda, Gradifloras Rosa

ENGLISH NAMES: Rose DESCRIPTION Hybrid tea rose bushes are the most popular, because they put out a big rose on a straight stem. Floribunda rose bushes are a cross between the hybrid teas and the polyanthas. Grandifloras produce large rose clusters on long stems.

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

sunPLANT + waterREQUIREMENTS + drainage + rich soil = rose success

In cold climates roses can be mulched CARE

It would be better to water twice per week deeply than to apply four shallower, less thorough waterings over the same time period.

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

ENGLISH NAMES: Feather Reed Grass DESCRIPTION This reed grass is a vertical masterpiece and provides wonderful contrast amongst low shrubs and perennials. Even though Calamagrostis can grow in fresh-water bogs, it also does well in drier areas. It is an early bloomer, which is an asset in areas with a short growing season. The blossoms change color through the season and remain on the plant until winter snow brings them down. Pick the flowers at different stages of development and create a colorful arrangement. Combine in a vase with rose stems laden with rosehips and place outside your front door. This grass won the prize: Perennial Plant of the Year.

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

It likes full sun. PLANT REQUIREMENTS The soil should be moist to wet and fertile. It tolerates a wide range of soil types including dry sandy soil; thrives in clay soil.

It has to be planted or divided in early to late CARE spring and early fall. It should be cut down in early spring, just before the new growth starts. Water to root depth once every 2 weeks in drought conditions. Recommended spacing between plants: 45-100cm because is a large plant

Hydrangea macrophylla

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Requires average amount of watering. PLANTanREQUIREMENTS Grow in partial shade and in a loamy, welldrained soil enriched with humus.

Rhododendron catawbiense

ENGLISH NAMES: Azaleas Rhododendrons DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Azalea is a broadleaf evergreen bush that has dark green, leathery foliage, and spring flowers that are great for attracting hummingbirds.

ThisPLANT rhododendron shrub is easy to transplant, REQUIREMENTS but it does require an acidic soil and prefers a shady location.

Lavandula angustifolia

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Grow in fullREQUIREMENTS sun and an alkaline, sandy, wellPLANT drained soil. They are also drought-tolerant, which is why they're such a good choice in rock gardens.

PLANTS FOR POOLSIDE

Miscanthus sinensis Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl'Strictus' Foerster'

ENGLISH NAMES: Porcupine Grass DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE

Ornamental grasses are excellent choices for poolside landscaping: they are easy to care for, not too messy, grow quickly, blend nicely with other plants, and create a striking form, day or night.

Likes full sun; moist and fertile soil. PLANT REQUIREMENTS

Divide it when shows signs of life in the spring, CARE Plant bare root plants only in late spring to early summer, when the soil is warm.

Porcupine Grass has horizontal stripes that gives exotic look which goes well with tropical landscaping. Season of interest: july till spring - will likely remain standing all winter

Tolerates a wide range of soil types; moderately drought tolerant. A very importat aspect is that holds up to wind and snow. Recommended spacing between plants: 90-150 cm.

The roots will grow only in warm soil. Planting too early in the spring may cause the roots to rot. Similar story in the fall when the roots may not grow enough to establish before the cold and wet of winter, resulting in the demise of the plant.

Miscanthus Sinensis'Karl Gracillimus Calamagrostis x acutiflora Foerster'

ENGLISH NAMES: Maiden Grass DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE

Maiden grass would be worth growing for its graceful arching form, alone. But it boasts other desirable features, too, including coppery flower heads in early fall that later become silvery white plumes.

Grow in fullREQUIREMENTS sun and in a moist but well-drained PLANT soil.

Maiden grass needs some room, as the clumps CARE get quite large, eventually. Divide every few years to "spread the wealth" and keep the clumps more manageable.

It spreads via rhizomes. The leaves yellow up by mid-fall and may fade to a beige in winter -- still colorful enough that the plant truly comes into its own in winter, when there is little else left in the landscape for visual interest.

Cut the foliage down to ground level in late winter or early spring to make room for the new shoots. Leaving the dead grass stalks to wave in the breeze during winter accomplishes two things: 1. They will serve as a sort of "mulch" to protect the living parts of the plant underground 2. They can make for some nice winter scenes, especially after a snowfall.

Fargesia robusta'Karl Campbell Calamagrostis acutiflora Foerster' Calamagrostis xx acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

ENGLISH NAMES: Shweeash Bamboo DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

F. robusta has a robust, yet non-invasive growth habit comparable to other bamboo species.

It isPLANT able toREQUIREMENTS withstand cold winters and windy conditions showing minimal leaf stress.

In climates that have typical winter lows of -17째 C or less, about 3m is probably the maximum size attainable.

Its versatility, growing well in sun or shade, makes it ever useful in the landscape.

It can easily be pruned to nearly any shape. CARE If a narrow, upright screen is desired, cut the top 60-120 cm off of the culms that weep out around the perimeter. With out the weight of the top foliage, they will spring back upright.

The leaves are a rich green color which is constant through all the seasons. Even in direct sun, the foliage remains open and unburdened. They drape from the culms with an elegant form.

The bamboo will thrive in just about any type of soil. The imported material should be mixed with the local soil.

Culms can be cut at ground level to reduce the overall width or density. During their active growth period, summer through fall, remove any rhizomes attempting to spread beyond the borders.

Asplenium scolopendrium Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'KarlFoerster' Foerster' Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl

ENGLISH NAMES: Hart's tongue fern Horse tongue DESCRIPTION A. scolopendrium is an evergreen fern forming a rosette of arching, rich green, fronds, with undulating margins. Spores are borne underneath the fronds in stripes across the leaf. Asplenium scolopendrium is grown as an ornamental plant, with several cultivars selected with varying frond form, including with frilled frond margins, forked fronds and cristate forms.

PLANT REQUIREMENTS PLANT REQUIREMENTS The plants grow on neutral and acidic-rich substrates, including moist soil , most commonly in shaded situations but occasionally in full sun. Plants in full sun are usually stunted and yellowish in colour, while those in full shade are dark green and luxuriant.

CARE CARE Dead or damaged fronds should be removed. Sometimes is affected by rust in damp winters. It respond well to fertilizing: the more nutrients â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the bigger leaves. Suitable for container growing - place the containers with the plant in the chosed location (see the plan of the pool area).

Trapaeolum majus

Calamagrostis xLupinus acutiflorapolyphyllus 'Karl Foerster'

ENGLISH NAMES: Lupinus DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

Lupinus polyphyllus is perennial plant.

It isPLANT best toREQUIREMENTS grow them in moist situations, but if this is not possible they should be watered well during dry weather.

The CARE roots are large and long and readily exhaust the soil of its food materials, so each year the ground should be enriched with plenty of stable manure.

It grows from until 1.5m in height and has beautiful, long spikes of pea-shaped or butterfly-like flowers. The flowers are a clear, azure-blue, white or pink, with soft green leaves. The plants tend to spread out while growing. The blooming takes place from May and June.

The soil should be non-acidic. Lupines dislike to be moved so they should be planted and left alone.

Lupines are easily raised from seed and the plants self-sow if the soil is not too dry. The seeds should not be covered deeply when planted and can be sown at any time. The plants can be divided or cuttings can be made by using the rather hardened wood, or side shoots. This should be done in the spring.

Lysimachia nummularia â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aureaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

ENGLISH NAMES: Golden Creeping Jenny DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE

Golden creeping Jenny is a low-growing, rampant, evergreen groundcover with rounded, golden yellow leaves.

ThisPLANT cultivar can withstand damper soils than REQUIREMENTS many other types of ground covers and can tolerate limited foot traffic.

Grow in a moist, but well-drained soil, rich in CARE organic matter. Soil should not dry out in summer.

In summer, it produces many cup-shaped, bright yellow flowers.

Water well until soil is completely moist, weekly, during the first year only. Rust and leaf spot are possible, but generally no serious disease or insect problems. Can be invasive.

Asplenium scolopendrium Asplenium scolopendrium

Tropaeolum majus

Calamagrostisxxacutiflora acutiflora'Karl 'KarlFoerster' Foerster' Calamagrostis

ENGLISH NAMES: Nasturtium DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE

Nasturtium is an annual and perennial herbaceous.Once nasturtiums begin to appear they quickly cover an area that is given to them, and within a very short time begin to produce an abundance of striking blossoms that appear to be made of tissue paper.

Nasturtiums like to be in full sun and well PLANT REQUIREMENTS drained soil.

Since it is considered an annual, plant the seeds CARE in spring when the danger of frost has passed. Once they are established, nasturtiums will continue to spread and bloom until the first frost, with little more than the occasional sprinkling.

Leaves, flowers and even the unripe fruit of nasturtiums are edible. The leaves and flowers make wonderful additions to salads or as garnishes to savoury dishes having sweet, peppery taste. Use the blossoms either whole or chopped to decorate creamy soups, salads, butters, cakes and platters.

The plant is fairly tolerant of drought, but do best with regular watering. Nasturtiums cannot tolerate a hard freeze, but usually will sprout back after a light frost or freeze. It do best with warm days and cool nights. They stop flowering in the heat of summer. .

Just be sure to keep them trimmed back or they will crowd out the other plants. Nasturtiums are very easy to grow and seeding proces is easy as their seeds are large.

GRASS

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

ENGLISH NAMES: Feather Reed Grass DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE AND PRUNING

This reed grass is a vertical masterpiece and provides wonderful contrast amongst low shrubs and perennials. Even though Calamagrostis can grow in fresh-water bogs, it also does well in drier areas.

Preferes full sun. The soil should be moist to wet and fertile. It tolerates a wide range of soil types including dry sandy soil; thrives in clay soil.

It has to be planted or divided in early to late spring and early fall.

It is an early bloomer, which is an asset in areas with a short growing season. The blossoms change color through the season and remain on the plant until winter snow brings them down. Pick the flowers at different stages of development and create a colorful arrangement. Combine in a vase with rose stems laden with rosehips and place outside your front door. This grass won the prize: Perennial Plant of the Year.

It should be cut down in early spring, just before the new growth starts. Water to root depth once every 2 weeks in drought conditions. Recommended spacing between plants: 45-100cm because is a large plant.

Festuca ovina glauca

ENGLISH NAME: Fescue Grass Sheep's Fescue DESCRIPTION

PLANT REQUIREMENTS

CARE

Blue fescue grass is an ornamental grass. This grass bear bluish-gray foliage. It starts early in the season and keeps on growing until late in the fall.

It endures practically all the hardships of nature without being seriously damaged and recovers quickly after long periods of suffering. Lack of moisture brings it to a standstill.

When leaves are so dry that they break off at the slightest touch give the plant a little water and, it will immediately make a fresh start. Its a cold resisting grass.

Lawn grass

There are so called “cool-season” and “warm season” grasses depending on the local climate. Cool-season grasses fits your climate and some common grasse include: * Bentgrasses * Bluegrasses * Fescues * Ryegrasses The following are examples of other factors that go into your selection of grass type, in addition to local climate: * Shady areas are notorious obstacles to having green lawns. Among cool-season grasses, fine fescues are the most tolerant of shade. * Lawn areas with heavy foot traffic require a tough grass. A mix of Kentucky bluegrass and perennial rye will fill the bill here. tucky bluegrass are relatively droughttolerant.

* Some regions are more prone to drought than others. The new, improved strains of Kentucky bluegrass are relatively drought-tolerant. You still wonder which is better: laying sod or seeding lawns. While laying sod is fast and produces high-quality new lawns, seeding lawns is cheaper and offers a wider variety of grass types but it takes more time to grow. So it is up to you which one to choose.

CARE Raking will be your first task of spring lawn care. When you rake leaves in the fall, you make the effort to rake deeply. Don't just skim the surface, so as to remove the leaves. A deep raking will remove thatch, too, allowing you to kill two birds with one stone. Also still recommend a spring raking: it will remove grass blades that died over the winter; dead blades that are just waiting to become thatch!

TIPS ABOUT GARDENING

1.PLANTING SHRUBS

2. PLANTING A TREE

Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and deep enough to plant at the same level the shrub was in the container. If soil is poor, dig hole even wider and fill with a mixture half original soil and half compost or soil amendment. Carefully remove shrub from container and gently separate roots. Position in center of hole, best side facing forward. Fill in with original soil or an amended mixture if needed as described above. For larger shrubs, build a water well. Finish by mulching and watering well. If the plant is balled-and-burlapped, remove fasteners and fold back the top of natural burlap, tucking it down into hole, after you've positioned shrub. Make sure that all burlap is buried so that it won't wick water away from rootball during hot, dry periods. If synthetic burlap, remove if possible. If not possible, cut away or make slits to allow for roots to develop into the new soil. For larger shrubs, build a water well. Finish by mulching and watering well. If shrub is bare-root, look for a discoloration somewhere near the base; this mark is likely where the soil line was. If soil is too sandy or too clayey, add organic matter. This will help with both drainage and water holding capacity. Fill soil, firming just enough to support shrub. Finish by mulching and watering well.

Dig out an area for the tree that is about 3 or 4 times the diameter of the container or rootball and the same depth as the container or rootball. Use a pitchfork or shovel to scarify the sides of the hole. If container-grown, lay the tree on its side and remove the container. Loosen the roots around the edges without breaking up the root ball too much. Position tree in center of hole so that the best side faces forward. You are ready to begin filling in with soil. If planting a balled and burlaped tree, position it in hole so that the best side faces forward. Untie or remove nails from burlap at top of ball and pull burlap back, so it does not stick out of hole when soil is replaced. Synthetic burlap should be removed as it will not decompose like natural burlap. Larger trees often come in wire baskets. Plant as you would a b&b plant, but cut as much of the wire away as possible without actually removing the basket. Chances are, you would do more damage to the rootball by removing the basket. Simply cut away wires to leave several large openings for roots. Fill both holes with soil the same way. Never amend with less than half original soil. Recent studies show that if your soil is loose enough, you are better off adding little or no soil amendments. Create a water ring around the outer edge of the hole. Not only will this conseve water, but will direct moisture to perimeter roots, encouraging outer growth. Once tree is established, water ring may be leveled. 35

3. TYPES F PRUNING

4. PRUNING FLOWERING SHRUBS

Types of pruning include: - pinching - thinning - shearing - rejuvenating.

It is necessary to prune your deciduous flowering shrub for two reasons: 1. By removing old, damaged or dead wood, you increase air flow, yielding in less disease. 2. You rejuvenate new growth which increases flower production.

Pinching is removing the stem tips of a young plant to promote branching. Doing this avoids the need for more severe pruning later on. Thinning involves removing whole branches back to the trunk. This may be done to open up the interior of a plant to let more light in and to increase air circulation that can cut down on plant disease. The best way to begin thinning is to begin by removing dead or diseased wood. Shear is cutting plants prone to legginess all the way back to the ground after they bloom using bypass pruners.

Pruning deciduous shrubs can be divided into 4 groups: - minimal pruning (take out only dead, diseased, damaged, or crossed branches, can be done in early spring.); - spring pruning (encourages vigorous, new growth which produces summer flowers - in other words, flowers appear on new wood); - summer pruning after flower (after flowering, cut back shoots, and take out some of the old growth, down to the ground); - suckering habit pruning (flowers appear on wood from previous year. Cut back flowered stems by 1/2, to strong growing new shoots and remove 1/2 of the flowered stems a couple of inches from the ground) Always remove dead, damaged or diseased wood first, no matter what type of pruning you are doing. As a general rule, it is best not to remove more than about 25 percent of the top of a plant in a single pruning. 36

Pruning tools

Hedge shears

Both azaleas and rhododendrons should be pruned after flowering. Never cut into areas of bare stems or sparse foliage. These shrubs will sprout poorly or not at all. When a fairly severe pruning is required, no more than one-third of the branches should be cut back in a single season. In three years, the pruning will be complete. Removing rhododendron flower stems as soon as flowering ends will promote better flowering in the next season.

Lopping shears

Pruning saw

Anvil type hand shears and scissors type hand shears.

Shoots develop from buds just below where the flower cluster was pruned off after bloom. These shoots will produce new flower buds by the end of the season.

Shrub roses that flower only in spring should be pruned after they have flowered. They should be allowed to develop in their natural shape. Fall pruning of hybrid roses should consist of removing some of the top, brushy growth. This will reduce the tendency for the bush to be torn loose during the winter by high or persistent winds. Remove all dead wood by cutting at least 3 cm below the dead area. In some cases, entire canes may be winterkilled and should be removed. Remove all weak, thin wood at the base and select three to five strong canes. Vigorous canes should be cut to a large, strong bud preferably facing outward. In the photo is presented the steps you have to fallow in order to obtain a globular shape for shrubs. First pinch the main branch of the young plant to promote branching. In the next year all the braches of the crown have to be pruned half of actual size but only after flowering and all the other branches under the crown has to be removed. The more you pinch the thickness the crown. It is a very easy way, you just have to be patient with the growing of yur shurbs.

5. PRUNING TREES AFTER PLANTING

6.WATERING AIDS

It is critical to prune trees correctly from the beginning to assure proper growth and development. Young trees can be transplanted in a number of forms: bare root, balled & burlap and in containers. The more stress the plant undergoes in the transplant process, the more pruning that is required to compensate. Deciduous trees like Acer can be dug up and sold with their bare roots exposed. Because most of the root system is lost in digging, sufficient top growth should be removed to compensate for this loss. This may be done at the nursery before you buy the plant or you may have to prune at the time of planting. Select and head back the best scaffold branches, those branches which will form the main lateral structure of the future mature tree. Remove all other extraneous side branches. If the tree seedling does not have branches, allow it to grow to the desired height of branching then pinch it back to stimulate the lower buds to form branches. Ball and burlap trees are dug up with their root systems somewhat intact. Since some root mass is lost in the digging stage, a light pruning is generally called for. Head back the plant to compensate for this loss and to promote branching. Once you have your trees planted, be patient. Do not remove shoots from the trunk early on as these allow the tree to grow more rapidly and also shade the tender young trunk from sun-scald. Wait a few years to begin training the tree to its ultimate form.

No gardener depends 100% on natural rainfall. Even the most water conscious garden appreciates the proper hose, watering can or wand. Watering Cans: Whether you choose plastic of galvanized makes no difference, but do look for generous capacity and a design that is balanced when filled with water. Watering Hose: When purchasing a hose, look for one that is double-walled, as it will resist kinking. Quick coupler links are nice to have on ends of hoses to make altering length fast. To extend the life of your hose, keep it wound around a reel and stored in a shady area. Prior to winter freezes, drain hose. Sprayers: Are commonly thought of as devices for applying chemicals, but can really be a step saver rather that dragging out a hose or making numerous trips with a watering can. The backpack sprayer is best suited for this. Take care not to use any kind of chemical in tanks used for watering! Sprinklers: Attached to the ends of garden hoses, these act as an economical irrigation system. Standing Spike Sprinklers are usually intended for lawns and deliver water in a circular pattern. Rotating Sprinklers deliver a circle of water and are perfect for lawns, shrubs and flower beds. Pulse-jet sprinklers cover large areas of ground in a pulsating, circular pattern. The head usually sits up on a tall stem, except for when watering lawns. Oscillating sprinklers are best for watering at ground level in a rectangular pattern. 39

7. WATERING OUTDOOR PLANTS Plants are almost completely made up of water so it is important to supply them with adequate water to maintain good plant health. Not enough water and roots will wither and the plant will wilt and die. Too much water applied too frequently deprives roots of oxygen leading to plant diseases such as root and stem rots. The type of plant, plant age, light level, soil type and container size all will impact when a plant needs to be watered. Follow these tips to ensure successful watering:

* Consider water conservation methods such as drip irrigation, mulching, and xeriscaping. Drip systems which slowly drip moisture directly on the root system can be purchased at your local home and garden center. * The key to watering is water deeply and less frequently. Mulches can significantly cool the root zone and conserve moisture. When watering, water well, provide enough water to thoroughly saturate the root ball. With in-ground plants, * Consider adding water-saving gels to the root zone this means thoroughly soaking the soil .With container grown plants, apply enough water to allow water to flow which will hold a reserve of water for the plant. These can through the drainage holes. make a world of difference especially under stressful conditions. Be certain to follow label directions for their use. * Try to water plants early in the day or later in the afternoon to conserve water and cut down on plant The first two years after a plant is installed, regular stress. Do water early enough so that water has had a chance to dry from plant leaves prior to night fall. This is watering is important for establishment. The first year is critical. It is better to water once a week and water deeply, paramount if you have had fungus problems. than to water frequently for a few minutes * Don't wait to water until plants wilt. Although some plants will recover from this, all plants will die if they wilt This plant requires less watering during winter months, so reduce watering from late November through early March. too much (when they reach the permanent wilting point). 40

8. FERTILIZATION

9. GETTING THE MOST OUT OF CUT FLOWERS

A. for Young Plants

Cut flowers bring the garden into your home. While some cut flowers have a long vase life, most are highly perishable. How cut flowers are treated when you first bring them home can significantly increase how long they last. The most important thing to consider is getting sufficient water taken up into the cut stem. Insufficient water can result in wilting and short-lived flowers. Bent neck of roses, where the flower head droops, is the result of poor water uptake. To maximize water uptake, first re-cut the stems at an angle so that the vascular system (the "plumbing" of the stem) is clear. Next immerse the cut stems in warm water. Remember when the flower is cut, it is cut off from its food supply. Once water is taken care of, food is the resource that will run out next. The plants stems naturally feed the flowers with sugars. If you add a bit of sugar (1 tea spoon) to the vase water, this will help feed the flower stems and extend their vase life. Bacteria will build up in vase water and eventually clog up the stem so the flower cannot take up water. To prevent this, change the vase water frequently and make a new cut in the stems every few days. Floral preservatives, available from florists, contain sugars, acids and bacteriacides that can extend cut flower life. These come in small packets and are generally available where cut flowers are sold. If used properly, these can extend the vase life of some cut flowers 2 to 3 times when compared with just plain water in the vase.

Young plants need extra phosphorus to encourage good root development. Look for a fertilizer that has phosphorus, P, in it (the second number on the bag.) Apply recommended amount for plant per label directions in the soil at time of planting or at least during the first growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize. ! Stay away from the mentality that says, "If some fertilizing is good, then more must be better"! B. for Established Plants Established plants can benefit from fertilization. Take a visual inventory of your landscape. Trees need to be fertilized every few years. Shrubs and other plants in the landscape can be fertilized yearly. A soil test can determine existing nutrient levels in the soil. If one or more nutrients is low, a specific instead of an all-purpose fertilizer may be required. Fertilizers that are high in N, nitrogen, will promote green leafy growth. Excess nitrogen in the soil can cause excessive vegetative growth on plants at the expense of flower bud development. It is best to avoid fertilizing late in the growing season. Applications made at that time can force lush, vegetative growth that will not have a chance to harden off before the onset of cold weather.

10. DISEASES

11. FUNGI

A. Verticillium or Fusarium Wilt

Leaf Spots

Wilts may be contracted through infected seed, plant debris, or soil. This fungus begins and multiplies during the cool, moist season, becoming obvious when weather turns warm and dry. Plants wilt because the fungus damages their water conducting mechanisms. Overfertilization can worsen this problem. Able to overwinter in soil for many years, it is also carried and harbored in common weeds. Prevention and Control: Keep nitrogen-heavy fertilizers to a minimum as well as over-irrigating as they encourage lush growth. Practice crop rotation and prune out or better yet remove infected plants.

Leaf spots are caused by fungi or bacteria. Brown or black spots and patches may be either ragged or circular, with a water soaked or yellow-edged appearance. Insects, rain, dirty garden tools, or even people can help its spread. Prevention and Control: Remove infected leaves when the plant is dry. Leaves that collect around the base of the plant should be raked up and disposed of. Avoid overhead irrigation if possible; water should be directed at soil level. For fungal leaf spots, use a recommended fungicide according to label directions.

B. Anthracnose

Scale Insects

Anthracnose is the result of a plant infection, caused by a fungus, and may cause severe defoliation, especially in trees, but rarely results in death. Sunken patches on stems, fruit, leaves, or twigs, appear grayish brown, may appear watery, and have pinkish-tan spore masses that appear slime-like. Prevention and Control: Try not to over water. Prune, remove, or destroy infected plants and remove all leaf debris. Select a fungicide that is labeled for anthracnose. Follow the label strictly.

Scales are insects, related to mealybugs, that can be a problem on a wide variety of plants - indoor and outdoor. Young scales crawl until they find a good feeding site. The adult females then lose their legs and remain on a spot protected by its hard shell layer. They appear as bumps, often on the lower sides of leaves. Scales can weaken a plant leading to yellow foliage and leaf drop and an unattractive black surface fungal growth called sooty mold.

12. PESTS

Prevention and Control: Once established they are hard to control. Isolate infested plants away from those that are not infested. Cosnsult your local garden center professional a legal recommendation regarding their control. Encourage natural enemies such as parasitic wasps in the garden. Caterpillars Caterpillars are the immature form of moths and butterflies. They are voracious feeders attacking a wide variety of plants. They can be highly destructive and are characterized as leaf feeders, stem borers, leaf rollers, cutworms and tent-formers. Prevention and Control: keep weeds down, scout individual plants and remove caterpillars, apply labeled insecticides such as soaps and oils, take advantage of natural enemies such as parasitic wasps in the garden and use Bacillus thuringiensis (biological warfare) for some caterpillar species.