Thousandplants by Edizioni Il Millepiante

THOUSANDPLANTS

GUIDEBOOK TO KNOW THE PLANTS OF GARDEN CENTRES

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INDEX READING INSTRUCTIONS

THOUSANDPLANTS

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

3 4

PLANT BEDDING AND CARE

BROAD-LEAVED TREES

GUIDEBOOK TO KNOW THE PLANTS OF GARDEN CENTRES CONIFEROUS TREES

PALM TREES

ORNAMENTAL SHRUBS

ROSE GARDENS

CLIMBERS

ROWS, HEDGES AND TOPIARY

SUCCULENT PLANTS

FRUIT PLANTS

HARDY PERENNIALS

THIS BOOK IS A PART OF THE COMPLETE BOOK “IL MILLEPIANTE” OF 304 PAGES www.millepiante.it

CONSULTAZIONE

READING INSTRUCTIONS Classification of the plants

How useful it is to have a common language and a correct and precise nomenclature in the identification of plants is clear to everyone. It may seem difficult to learn or remember them, but it is a fundamental task for the correct knowledge and identification of the plants, especially for those who deal with them at a scientific or professional level. Even the simple plant hobbyists and lovers consider the management of the correct botanic nomenclature a distinctive element, which respects the subject and the same plants. Just as knowing the distinctive and personal name of someone makes him more familiar and immediate, likewise knowing the correct name of the plants to identify their botanic and environmental characteristics, as well as their appearance is useful. In ancient times, the plants were indicated only with the common name, but the progress of knowledge and enrichment of the species leads to the need of a precise and uniform nomenclature, which would allow having a universal language, common to all the specialists, botanists, nurserymen, landscape designers, and lovers. In 1700, thanks to the work of the Swedish botanist Linnaeus, taxonomy, a sector of biological sciences that takes care of the classification and nomenclature of living beings and fossils, was established. In 1753, Linnaeus introduced the binomial nomenclature, with which every living vegetable or animal organism was classified with two names, naturally in Latin, since it was the official language adopted within the scientific sector, afterwards used by all naturalists. The first name identifies the genus, which has a capitalised initial letter (Acer), while the second indicates the species, with small initial letter (platanoides). A variety or cultivar (“Crimson King”) may also be specified after the first two names. It is important for those who professionally take care of plants to learn how to distinguish also the varieties and cultivars that present even more detailed and specific botanical qualities. The use and meaning of botanical names is a study that generates passion and is very gratifying. The main groups used in the taxonomy of the botanical classification, in taxonomic order, are listed following. GENUS: internal subdivision of a family of a group of plants with similar characteristics and sufficiently distinguishable from others. For example, Crataegus. COMMON NAME: after the Latin name and, the synonym if it exists, also the common name is indicated. FAMILY: name of a great number of plants having general and important botanic characteristics in common. It includes various genera. Capitalised initial letter. Rosaceae. SPECIES: more detailed specific properties that are clearly distinguished from other species within the same genus. Capitalised initial letter. Monogyna. VARIETY: Variation of a species that spontaneously grows in nature due to some morphological details or other factors, colour, scent, adaptability to the climate, soil, etc. SYNONYMS: the botanists periodically revise the genera and species, therefore, it could happen that a species is attributed to a genus different from the one

it was previously attributed to. CULTIVAR: Synonym of Variety, but with the difference that the variation of the botanical characteristics was obtained with artificial agronomic and biological methods in cultivation, through an anthropic selection and that were maintained in the both the asexual and sexual propagation. Equivalent of Variety, but as constitutor. CLONE: The name clone is applied to the identical plants obtained through vegetative propagation (not sexual), cutting, marcotting, meristem cultures etc. HYBRID: The hybrids of two species receive a specific name preceded by an “x”. Example for POPLAR Genus: POPULUS Common Name: (Poplar) Family: Salicaceae Species: Populus Nigra Variety: Italic Synonym: “Pyramidalis”

READING INSTRUCTIONS - GRAPHICAL DESCRIPTION

The new version of Millepiante has been enriched with new technical data and information about the single plants, in descriptive and graphic form. It may be helpful to read and visualise the symbols and meanings reported below for an immediate and complete understanding. The following indications are supplied in the description and the symbols used are the following: - development in height (H) and width (Ø) expressed in metres (m) or in centimetres (cm). The data are referred to the maximum reachable dimensions in the adult phase and only in ideal pedoclimatic and cultivation conditions.

SHAPES AND CROWN GROWTH: round ovoidal willowy broad oval conical/pyramidal fastigiated/columnar Definition of the plants according to their presence fan-shaped naturalness level: weeping branches 1. AUTOCHTHONOUS OR INDIGENOUS palm They have their origin in the region where they umbelliform are species exclusive of a specific territory are trailing/horizontal crown defined endemic CLIMATE 2. EXOTIC Region of belonging of the plants by climate and altitude They have their origin out of the region where continental mountain -15°(min. temp.) they are and where they have been introduced by continental cold - 5° (min. temp.) man. They can be divided into: exotic naturalised are those species that, once temperate +2° (min. temp.) introduced, found the environment suitable for mild Mediterranean/warm +8° (min. temp.) their spontaneous reproduction, FLOWERING exotic adventitious, their spontaneous reproducyes, with seasonal flowering tion occurs just for a limited period of time, after FOLIAGE which, man must provide for it, evergreen persistent exotic acclimatised, they survive only in the places deciduous where they were introduced, but they cannot semi-persistent/progressive leaves renewal complete their biological cycle. exotic cultivated, they survive in the region only if COLOURED AUTUMN FOLIAGE Yes, scenographic colouring man takes care of them. 3. COSMOPOLITAN ORNAMENTAL BARK These species are common in the flora of all Yes, with colours and distinctive signs on the trunk regions, they are distributed all over the world, SUN/SHADE EXPOSURE and their origin is often unknown. full sun plant half shade plant It is more practical to divide ornamental and landscaplant that prefers shade (it does not mean that it pe plants into the following groups: lives in dark places, but in diffuse, Plant typologies indirect, and filtered light). - Broadleaf and conifer trees SOIL - Shrubs, broadleaf, and conifer Suitable for a wide typology of soils - Palms Ideal growth in dry soils -Herbaceous perennial (including the Graminaceous, temperate soil with ordinary alternation of Ferns, Water-plants, Aromatic plants) - Rosebushes soil at the right temperature and well drained - Fruit trees basically humid soil Use typologies: plant typical of acidic soils (pH 4.5 – 6) - hedges, ground cover, climbing, and borders.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN

CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

Green-blue seaweed: the first form of vegetable life on our planet.

Fern Forest

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE Through plants we can find the history of our planet and mankind. In fact, plants and vegetables are the most ancient and prestigious representatives of the living world. The silent presence of these small beings or monuments of the nature - slowly acquiring new shapes, colors and expressions but always in accordance with their essence and the surrounding environment - is symbol of historical memory and time continuity. Past, present and future are unified in plants better than any other natural or living element. Botanists, geologists and agronomists agree to date the birth of green-blu seaweeds, the first kind of vegetable life containing chlorophyl, between two and three billions of years before our age. Other two billions of years would elapse to see the appearance of the first forms of vegetable life with vascular system, i.e. adopting arboreal shape. During the carboniferous age, the planet was occupied by enormous fern forests,

Lake area Ecosystem

which would after create the current deposits of fossil carbon. These giants, that are represented today by some example of fern in the tropical area, were the sole and extraordinary purifiers of air and atmosphere; absorbing the carbon dioxide filling that environment and giving out oxigen, they allowed an evolution towards more advanced vegetable and animal beings. Trees and vegetable world adapted to the phenomena of transformation of the planet and to climatic change; during millions of years new environmental situations have been created throughout the earth, as a group of particular environments we call “ecosystems”. Within each ecosystem, we find also the development of groups of plants able to tolerate the physical conditions of the environment, what we call “vegetable biological associations” or phytocoenosis. Time completed the work of selection and adaptation of arboreal species, through other selective factors like animal life and human activity.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

Categorization of earth’s ecosystems

BOTANIC GEOGRAPHY

Desert

Although plants originate from particular geographic and environmental condiSnowy tions, they have a high power of adaptability. Even the botanic categorization Urban must prescind from any evolutionary systematic point of reference, and it mostly considers the climatic and environmental Cultivations whole, where each complex and articulated ecosystem shows some uniformity Humid and continuity of characteristics. Today, phytogeography distinguishes the large areas of vegetable origin and development in large homogenous geographic areas, which are called “floristic kingdoms”, where trees are the preminent element. The environment of floristic kingdoms is determined by several atmospheric, edaphic and biotic factors. We speak about atmospheric factors to mean duration of light, temperature change, air humidity, rainfalls, winds and quantity of carbon dioxide. Edaphic factors are physical and chemical properties of the soil, i.e. mineralogical composition, structure, weave, pH, size of mineral parcels and saltiness, content and degree of water retention. Biotic factors concern the presence of vegetable and animal organisms inside the soil and the surrounding environment. Categorization of earth’s ecosystems

Grassland

Mixed Forest

Savanna

Deciduous Forest

Forest-Savanna

Evergreen Forest

Shrub open area

Coniferous Forest

Shrub closed area

Ocean

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

PLANT NURSERY: MODERN FACTORY OF LANDSCAPE The main factory of trees is without doubt their own natural environment, wood or forest. Nevertheless, wood trees cannot be easely transplanted in any time and used to reconstruct landscapes and vegetable ecosystems. We can gather seeds during an excursion and let them germinate, but we will wait long time before to see and enjoy our tree. Therefore, we have an agricultural branch called “plant nursery”, being the very factory of trees and plants to be used: a factory of plants and trees of every age, size and kind of use. It is an authentic botanic art of selection, care, survival and movement of plants. It is not easy to move trees along many kilometers of distance and to keep them healthy and fully vital. Trees we today use to create gardens, parks, public green areas and landscapes, do not directly come from their woods or original places. Ornamental and forest trees and plants come from specialized garden centers, caring about their quantity, shape, health and selection. These “factories” of green and landscape play an important role for farming and improvement of trees, threatened by new diseases and several kinds of pollution. Moreover, garden centers are concentra-

To the Left: a row of Aesculus Hippocastanum

ted in specialized areas which cultivate a wide range of plants, where is possible to follow their development and attitude. If we desire a good tree, it would not be enough to plant a seed or a young scion and take care of its growth. Trees need, during their young stage, to be cultivated, cared, pruned and transplanted, in order to fortify all its parts and let it be able to be transplanted, when adult, in the desired time and place. Nurseries of trees, shrub and herbaceous plants are very factories to set the environment and urban landscape, offering and high quantity of vegetable material which is suitable to improve environments, restore degradated areas, and insert roads and buildings inside the landscape, mitigating their hard impact. The importance of plants nurseries is confirmed by the history of parks and classic gardens. Each ancient great public garden, or park of historical villas, devoted a corner of its territory to the nursery, in order to replace elements in case of death or replanting. The art of gardening grew up together with the specialization of nursery and improvement of cultivation techniques, from pruning to transplanting, until the selection of new and better varieties of plants.

Above: cultivation of coniferous trees in bare earth.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

STAGES OF CULTIVATION AND GROWTH OF LANDSCAPES PLANTS

of heavy precipitations. In fact, the most important function of roots, besides the grounding of plant, is breathing, i.e. using the oxigen inside the soil, to grow and develop. Presence of water within the micropores of the land prevents breathing; if this phenomenon continues to happen over few days, plants life is doomed. Nursery’s land must be equipped with drainage tools and should have an excellent granulometry, an irrigation system - a localized or wide-aspertion irrigation. The quality of nursery reflects quality of land of gardens and parks; instead, naturalistic areas and natural environments must preserve their original qualities.

The description of the various stages of treatment and cultivation of trees inside the nursery is aimed to expose the complexity and botanical skill, that are needed to produce in short time a good quality of trees, shrubs and any kind of plants for any sort of use. Step by step description of cultivation stages is useful to know the factors of quality and duration of plants, in order to choose the best before buying and planting within gardens and parks. These quality factors give the opportunity to understand the work, and therefore the value, of forest PLANTS TREATMENT IN THE and ornamental plants, that we find FACTORIES OF LANDSCAPE on the market in different forms, from PLANTS MULTIPLICATION excellent specimens to young plants to be Multiplication systems of trees could be: home-grown. seed, scion, graft, and budding. NURSERY Nursery is a portion of land devoted to host several young plants to be cultivated. Each area has its own kind of soil, thus influencing the typology of cultivated plants. The soil is worked very deep, so that roots can penetrate well, and organic natural substance and fertilizers enrich it. Nursery’s land must provide a good deposit of water for plants, while it should grant an efficient drainage of surface and underground waters in times

The seed: arboricultural applications.

Seed is mostly used when the main aim is reforestation, and then is not important to have identical plants, or to produce graft’s bearers, where varieties will be grafted. If we have a wood, in fact, differences of growth, development and deportment are not important. A light difference could be used to fill different areas, to differently exploit light, water and soil. For plants to be used out the wood, we generally cultivate them iden-

Platform with milling cutter and implantation trench.

tical in shape, deportment and colors, in order to create landscape continuity. As regards the plants development, seedborn individuals show to be stronger than those scion-born, and an apical dominance, i.e. the tendency to develop in height, because of a strong dominance of the apical bud over the remaining ones. The scion

Scion is the simplest method of agamic cultivation: it is performed when we take a portion of branch, stem or root, and stimulate the production of the remaining organs of the plant. The most widespread kind of scion is the branch scion. Cutting a portion of branch, according to the character and needs of particular species and varieties, and putting it inside the soil, we obtain the development of roots from the cutted surface, and subsequently the development of a small plant. The plant whence scion is taken is also called “mother plant”, giving a number of scions in accordance with its own growth, therefore generating more identical plants. The scion, or generally the methods which produce a whole plant using a portion of the same, e.g. layering and marcotting, allow obtaining identical individuals. The application of this multiplication method is particularly useful and rapid in case of parks, gardens, rows, hedges, and groups of ornamental plants, which should show an equal and homogeneous aesthetic and functional effect. This kind

Stage of plants tying.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE of multiplication systems needs only one SOME PARAMETERS OF individual to produce more plants, and it is classified as “agamic” multiplication, CULTIVATION AND MEASURE unlike the seed one, that is called “gamic” A tree is completely decribed by size and multiplication. number of times it has been planted. In correspondence to size and number of Marcotting transplantations, we find height of stem, Similarly to scion, it is performed trying volume and development of crown acto stimulate the production of roots from cording to species and way of farming. branches still united to the plant. Cut- The size of a tree is determined by the tings are performed upon a branch, and measure of circumference of trunk at one a smal bag of dark plastic is tied near to meter of height. This measure is adopted them, with some soil inside. Within the by all plants that are produced and com“dark” area, and near to the performed mercialized by European nurserymen cuttings, roots will come out. After the and subscribed by ENA - European production of roots, it is possible to pro- Nurserystock Association - through an cede to cut the concerned branch, in or- international agreement. These rules are der to have a brand new plant. valid for supplies, costs and lawsuits at european level. Layering

It is generally applied on trees with long and flexible branches, which already present a particular predisposition for multiplication and production of roots. We procede putting one of the longest branches near to the soil and grounding the apex; plant’s predisposition and darkness will stimulate the production of roots out the grounded point, then we would procede to cut the branch to obtain a brand new autonomous plant. Grafting

- with an interval of 10 centimeters from 50 cm to a peak of 90-100 cm Beyond the measure of 60-70 cm the most part of trees of first and second size are called “specimens”. Trees of third size or slow development are called “lower measure specimens”. For example, Lagerstroemia Indica is specimen from the measure of 18-20 cm.

The clod size is related to the tree size and number of transplantations. The sole clod size related to height, without any information about the number of transplantations, is without significance. For broad-leaved trees, ratio is reported below in the table. Finally, a modern nursery, in order to grant a good quality of products, performs a careful fighting against diseases of plants, using agronomic (material selection, rotation and Measures of sizes are calculated: soil treatment), chemical and biological tools, that are generally defined “Integrated - with an interval of 2 centimeters from the Pest Control”. measure of 4-6 cm to 18-20 cm The health of product is essential for a - with an interval of 5 centimeters from the good development and aesthetic effect of measure of 20 cm to 50 cm the future vegetation. Trunk Circumference

Clod Diameter

Number of Transplantations

14-16 16-18 18-20 25-30 30-35 45-50

50 60 70 80 90 100-120

2 3 3-4 4 5 6

This is the only method of agamic multiplication that works with two individuals, the union of a “subject” or rootstock, and Broad-leaved trees: ratio table. an “object” or scion, belonging to two different but compatible varieties. According to the way of this union, also called “welding”, we could have bud grafts or scion grafts, when we have a branch grafted on a shrub. The important factor to effectively perform a graft is the possibility to unify the cambial rings of two plants we desire to weld, in order to obtain a single individual having the root of the first one and the crown of the second one. The purpose of grafting is to produce trees with specific desired crowns and roots that are suitable for the used soil and the planting request. Green pruning in nursery.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

Stage of plants tying.

GREEN PRUNING In the nursery, operations of pruning and moulding are performed, differently from those carried out in cities and gardens. In fact, the nursery pruning is performed to give shape, deportment and proportionality. The choice of the young form guides and influences the future deportment of the plant. The winter pruning allows: - to mould the shape and crown-structure of the plant - to regulate the branches frame (high or low, sparse or thick) - to mould the shape of the crown (ovalhigh or oval-columnar, starting from the basis, conical etc.) On the other hand, summer pruning allows: - to balance the development and grant the preservation of the desired features - to stimulate the growth of side branches, pruning the apical bud and orientating towards high a side bud. In this way, we keep the shape in a lower vertical growth and an higher tillering of side branches. When plants reach the desired size, they are ready to be eradicated, packed and shipped. TRANSPLANTATION Young plants coming from seed, graft or scion, once they are rooted and reached an autonomous size, they are transplanted for the first time during winter, with naked roots, in deep ground or within small pots, also called phytocells, where they will be re-cultivated for one or two years, then transplanted again. Transplantation aims to eradicate plants from the soil of growth, relocating them

Stage of plants tying.

in wider areas, where roots, branches and crowns can develop more. When plants, especially trees, have very large sizes, transplantation is performed by keeping the clod around the roots; therefore, transplantation is a kind of pruning for the large roots system, preserving the most important part in order to stimulate the production of several new roots. It is a fundamental operation to obtain excellent and effective individuals. Periodical transplantation determines a well developed roots system, with very effective new roots, together with a good morphological vegetative balance. Large trees, of 6, 8, 10, 12 meters of height and more, can be easely transplanted if their roots have been cared and continuously kept within large clods over their life-time, thus granting a good engraftment. This is not possible with plants of woods or parks neva transplanted or cultivated. Their roots system is not placed within a delimited area, which could be removed without biological damages. Large plants from nursery have developed a roots system within a delimited clod, in proportion to their general development.

ERADICATION FOR MARKETING To uproot the trees from their cultivation soil, it is necessary to respect specific rules, in order to avoid a waste of energy and work. The plant, even out the soil, must continue to be effective and vital. Eradication is carried out by rotating or pressure blade machines, very sharped. Roots cutting must be clean, with a well compact clod around them. The clod will be packed with jute or another biodegradable material, closed with a net of simple iron without zync. Branches are tied and bound, in order to avoid damages during transportation. While operation is performed, it is necessary to be carefull to not damage the external side of the stem, that is an ornament for the plant and contains the vascular and cambial systems. In this stage, wounds can limit vegetative revival and create weakness towards cryptogamic and non-cryptogamic diseases. As clearly results from the brief description given above, cultivation of large trees for ornamental or forest purposes requires ability and passion.

SIGNIFICANCE OF TREES FOR LANDSCAPE AND URBAN GREEN

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

PLANTS WITHIN TERRITORY AND SOCIAL LIFE

Stage of plants tying.

All plants always play a role of environmental improvement, no matter the place where they are. “Situations” especially need them, speaking in terms of urbanized or artificial realities. Places where the most part of people lives, and few trees are present. Gardens and parks fulfill the need of environmental improvement and represent a micro-ecosystem of great value for the environment, landscape and city. Living beings, together with the surrounding environment, compose one big integrated system, THE ECOSYSTEM, where each individual plays a specific role. Within the ecosystem, trees and plants have the preminent role to captivate solar energy through photosynthesis, thus building the ecosystem itself. Plants are the energetic power station, linked to the Sun without wires or plugs: the Sun is

the source of this raw material, starting point of any further biologic process. Energy, together with water and mineral salts, is absorbed by the soil, so building all the vegetable organs which are necessary for the animal consumers. The consciousness of this important function of plants should suggest to mankind an high responsibility, when he changes the surrounding reality, often reducing vegetation and altering vital balances liked to it, inside the whole biological cycle of the eco-system. In ecosystem of small size also - like parks, private gardens or urban naturalistic areas – plants play important roles which cannot be ignored, if we desire an high quality of social life.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

FUNCTIONS OF PLANTS WITHIN THE URBAN AND TERRITORIAL CONTEXT

Stage of plants tying.

We describe below some important functions of plants, often ignored and underestimate by people who prefer the aesthetic aspect, being anyway a substancial factor for a worthy appearance and setting of common and private living areas.

I. PURIFICATION OF THE AIR Leaf surfaces captivate pounders, tarry and oily products that are present in the air; the effectiveness of this process is related to the width and wrinkledness of leaves. The presence of ozone upon the leaf surface sterilizes the bacterial charge of deposited powder, consequently purifying the air. Absorption of carbon Stage of plants tying. dioxide and consequent production of oxygen contribute to chemically clean III. PRESERVATION OF THE SOIL the air. Precipitations, rain, snow and hail are stopped and slowed down by leaves; the II. CLIMATE CONTROL combined action of roots systems and Urban climate is characterized by a num- biological components of soil make the ber of adverse conditions, which are de- land more porous. Vegetation defends termined by overheating and conseguent the soil from erosion, fixes it through the dryness of air. Green areas influence tem- roots, and enriches it with organic subperature and humidity, remarkably miti- stance. gating the climate. This action is manifested through an increase of humidity and IV. WATER PURUFICATION a lowering of temperature after the leaf Parks and lawns contribute to the physitranspiration. Moreover, the differen- cal filtering of liquids, while the humid ce of temperature between city (hotter) underlying layers collaborate to perform and countryside determines a fresh flux the biological one, and the mineral layer of air, which could be canalized towards to perform the chemical one, thus balanthe city center through a radial system of cing the content of mineral salts of filtetree-lined roads. red solutions.

Stage of plants tying.

V. PRESERVATION OF BIOLOGIC LIFE AND BIODIVERSITY Green areas constitute biotypes of high interest, especially for the presence of animal species of small size, invertebrates and vertebrates that adapted their life to the presence of man. These areas are the only places of refuge for them, inside the large urban compounds.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

Stage of plants tying.

VI. EMOTIONAL FUNCTION Experience of nature is fundamental for physical health of man, particularly during the first years of his life. Daily contact with land, plants and animals, stimulates the sensorial experiences of children, thus fostering a balanced psycophysical growth. VII. RECREATIONAL FUNCTION Green tree-lined areas play an important recreational role concerning free time; in parks and gardens we find the only protected place to walk, play, speak and read.

IX. CULTURAL AND EDUCATIONAL FUNCTIONS The cultural element, which is generally present within every green area, because of the specific botanic and faunal knowledge that is possible to acquire, is exalted by the historical parks and artistic gardens. Parks of proper size, having different environments ( wood, lawn, pond, stream etc.) can represent a â&#x20AC;&#x153;gymâ&#x20AC;? for the identification of species and the understanding of some important natural phenomena, thus remarkably contributing to the environmental education.

VIII. PROTECTIVE FUNCTION Vegetable elements influence the propagation of sound, constituting a protective screen against noise, which is particularly effective if the natural barrier is high, continuous and thick. If properly placed, plants can protect pedestrian areas and bicycle paths from the movement of heavy vehicles and their gas emission. Finally, plants could be used as screen to cover ugly structures or productive buildings, which are situated near to the houses.

X. ECONOMIC FUNCTION If the aesthetic function is easely understood, also the economic and productive one would worthy to be mentioned. Green areas represent a good that is not possible to estimate in financial terms, but without doubt they determine an increase of value for contiguous lands and houses. The price for an apartment that is situated near to the public park, or The Central Park of New York, is very different from another one without green areas. Stage of plants tying.

Stage of plants tying.

FROM NURSERY TO GARDENS

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

The beauty of cultivated plants express itself through the styles and shapes of the garden. Gardening and landscaping manifest the unification between the beauty of plants and the designer’s creativity, seeking a formal and botanic cohesion with the environment and local typical landscape. The creation of gardens tends to personalize a portion of nature and landscape, producing areas of botanic value and places which satisfy our needs of familiar use. A fine garden is the result of a balance between several botanic and aesthetical elements, determined by its original goal. Whatever size the available area would have, it is possible to extend our home life style towards the external side. The art of gardening and landscaping is to mould together the vegetation and other natural and ornamental elements, and determine the natural characteristics surrounding our place, in order to make it more pleasant and useful in accordance with specific functions and attitudes. A garden should include, beside the natural features of the place, insertions of trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, elements of rock and wood and other natural components, like water, paths or handworks. Gardening is made of styles and shapes, influenced by history and culture. Below, we report some examples of ways of gardening, which can ispire to create modern gardens. FORMAL GARDEN > Formal and architectural gardens still express a deep charm and influence on the designs of parks and gardens. Since their birth, they live a perpetual youthfulness through the modern interpretation of new styles of design, introducing geometric spaces and shapes that determine their fundamental structure. It is clearly distinguished from the landscape, rural or urban context where it is placed. This distinction is one of the reasons of his existence, i.e. to re-build and mould vegetation in shapes and spaces that are coherent with the aesthetical style of the epoch. MEDITERRANEAN GARDEN > Mediterranean garden is well represented by its symbolical elements: sun, wind and sea. It is therefore also known as “Sun Garden”. There three natural preminent elements had fundamentally influence the climate and cultural stylistic components of Mediterranean area. The garden that mostly expresses the character of mediterannean regions is composed by a mosaic of small and medium size plants, shrubs resistant to drought, leafy trees of medium size and wild herbaceous flowers. Mediterannean plants are represented by the mediterranean scrub with low and slow growth.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE COUNTRYSIDE GARDEN > Countryside garden is the one that merge in the landscape of the local context. Dipped within the landscape built by rural or agricultural tradition, the garden must consider all natural components, like the nature of the soil (acid, calcareous, sandy, organic etc.), of vegetation, structures and paths. Countryside garden is very informal, and its points of reference are the agricultural and rural areas, the exterior staying areas, the vegetable productive areas and the visual directives of the surrounding landscape. ROCK AND RUPESTRAL GARDEN > To build a rock garden, it means to produce a complete and varied natural habitat in miniature, with the opportunity to insert perennial herbaceous plants, yearly flowerings and coniferous or evergreen shrubs with abundant flowering. The most frequently used plants, to create a rock garden, are the perennial herbaceous ones, of small size but spectacular, which could be integrated by many other typologies of trees and shrubs. Modern rock garden is not merely composed by alpine plants; instead, it is defined by stones, rocks, rupestral walls and plants from various climatic areas. NATURAL GARDEN > The starting point of the natural garden is vegetation and the will to follow it, respecting shapes and resources of local landscape. It should be an outdoor portion of real nature, in full accordance with the natural environment, where even fences should be removed, avoiding to create artificial barriers. Vegetation expresses the naturalness of garden, together with wall or pavement rocks, the presence of water, sand or gravel. In this garden, we find all the typical and native species of plants: trees, shrubs and herbs.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE WATER GARDEN > Water is a fundamental component of gardensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; magic, because it can be adapted to all kinds of garden and can completely change the aspect of a place or building. Water does not carried out one function only; in fact, according to the designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability, it is able to create very different environments. It could be used as element of movement, e.g. streams, falls, or sluice gates, creating different levels and cliffs. On the contrary, water can be a static element of peace and quietness, for example a small lake.

DRY DESERT GARDEN > The desert garden brings to the highest level the environmental and stylistic conditions of the Mediterranean garden. A recent style and taste to create beautiful environments and landscapes within a difficult dry climate. This garden style is really essential, and can adopt two different stylistic ways: natural or moderncontemporary. Exterior places are its points of reference, dedicated to dry landscapes and a punctiform arrangement of plants, with small groups of shrubs and perennials.

TROPICAL GARDEN > Exotic and tropical gardens have a high sense of naturalness, where vegetation is the main character, in full vigour and freedom of floral composition. Tropical landscape offers a plurality of inspiring forms and environments, like thick woods or glads and lawns surrounded by palm and banana trees, euphorbias and leafy plants. Glades with irregularly shaped lawns can help to ourdistance an aggressive vegetation, striving to occupy all spaces. The water is a central element in these gardens, as small lakes, falls and pools, tree-lined by several leafy plants.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE JAPANESE AND ZEN GARDEN > Oriental zen garden results from the unification of Japanese landscape and oriental culture, expressed by its spirituality and religion. Each part of the garden is imbued with oriental symbolism and culture. The great peculiarity of the oriental zen garden is its detachment from emphasis and artificiality. It is without formal or architectural rules, but it is guided by nature, oriental landscape and cultural symbols. The Japanese garden deals with several styles and ways of work: sometime landscape and plants are the preminent factor, but we also find the minimal and simple zen garden, with few plants and an extreme power of form and symbol. MODERN-CONTEMPORARY GARDEN > Modern garden does not represent only one way of thinking, culture o philosophy. Instead, it results out the evolution of the culture surrounding expressive arts and architecture. The design of modern garden is based on the designer’s personal character, expressing itself in simpler and regular lines, representing a sort of sculptural quality of the space, in plane as well three-dimensional perspective. Shapes describe an organic tension, where house and natural green are merged together, through the full expressive freedom of both. Materials of buildings and ornamental elements are modern, essential and non-invasive. MINIMAL GARDEN > In continuity with the modern and contemporary style, Minimalism developed the slogan “less is more” as inspiring principle of a way of life, planning and design. Minimalism takes out in order to build, like a sculptor with his marble and stone, extracting the essence of forms and lines, free from decorative and multiplying attitudes. It aims to speak more by silence, to represent more by the very essential. These gardens are present in individual and solitary form or like coverings of free areas. They are quite a symbol, contained in a minimal number; as much it is necessary to deserve the name of “garden”.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE

THE GARDEN FOR THE MODERN FUNCTIONS OF LIFE

Modern gardening results from the botanic and stylistic culture of its time. Deriving from the utilitarian and functional culture of ‘900, which considers home as “a living machine”, garden inherits the land to satisfy the necessary living functions. The current gardening culture, very sensitive towards indivual and collective needs, has determined the development of different kinds of gardening, giving answers for questions of specialistic and limited usefulness. We could define such compositive style as “functional”, i.e. “gardens that are oriented towards the development of a task or fuction of use. However, as gardens they are important for the territorial value and to spread a green culture within an urban context of this century.

URBAN GARDEN > Urban garden is an invention of our time, of small or medium size, carved from modern urban area. It takes form in many different ways and styles, e.g. gardens of urban court or houses, roof gardens or inside urban buildings. It is characterized by a wide stylistic expression and use of modern and experimental material. Shapes and combined through irregular geometry and weavings of lines.

FAMILY GARDEN > Without renouncing to style, aesthetic quality and vegetation, family garden represents on the most widespread realities of contemporary gardening. Areas are carved in accordance with the users needs, from children to adult ones. Spaces of playing, work, rest, production and social life, are carefully calculated and created with the highest practicalness and thematic setting.

PLANET EARTH: A LARGE GARDEN CENTRE OF CHANGE AND LIFE A GARDEN FOR EVERY AGE > An basic quality of current gardens is versatility and power to satisfy the needs of green and maximum use by people of all ages. These multi-generational gardens are quite informal, but a proper organization of the area cannot ignore a formal plan of good quality. They includes resting places, playing areas for children, spaces to play light sport activities, and floral areas. Plants are important elements, to be chosen and placed according to activities and age.

PRODUCTIVE GARDEN > Productive garden is not a mere vegetable, fruit and aromatic garden. It includes also plants to decorate the house in continuity with the landscape. Structure and setting point to reach the main productive goal, but elements like paths, small walls, pots and equipment, give shape and stylistic quality. Always kept by gardening tradition, the production of vegetables within the garden is today revisited, because of food benefit and aesthetic quality.

GARDENS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES > For many people, garden is just a dream or fleeting desire, because of its impracticability. This should not happen, because the garden must be planned and designed for all. Architectural barriers, as stairs, walls and terraces, must be removed in order to create paths for everyone. Games, fountains, sport activities and resting places must face the general request of use. Ill people can find healing and care in therapeutic gardens or doing gardening.

PLANTS BEDDING AND CARE

Soil is the place of development for its fundamental component: the roots.

UNIVERSAL COMMON ELEMENTS FOR PLANTS BEDDING: TREES, SHRUBS, PERENNIAL HERBS, FLOWERS. Plants bedding is a very important technical and practical operation, determining the quality of vegetation, success or failure, the future development of garden and landscape. The significant components to be carefully watched during bedding operations, are: 1. Time of vegetable implantation. 2. Quality of soil 3. Available area for bedding 4. Exposition, climate and distances. 5. Farming and engraftment operations 6. Care and maintenance after implantation. After that, farming care is equally essential, because vegetation is composed by living elements and in continuous growth, and it is necessary to grant the vitality, formal and aesthetic quality, flowering and fruiting of plants.

1. Time of bedding The best time of bedding for plants (trees, shrubs and perennial herbs) is between November and the beginning of April. Fall-winter plantation, between October and Novemeber, permits to plants to advance one year of vegetation over other trees and shrubs, planted between winter and spring. Fall-winter season, if it is not characterized by intense cold, allows the plants to advance one year of vegetable development over the plantation of winter-spring season, because vegetations starts before. In particular, when spring is precocious and trees anticipate vegetation with emission of buds and leaves, it is possible to

The quality of the soil is fundamental for the correct growth of the plant. lose the possibility of a normal implantation, and it is necessary to delay until the following year the work of plantation of plants within clods or with naked roots. Roots system is never completely immobile concerning vegetation, and young roots start to germinate and grew with the mild temperature of spring and late-winter seasons. During vernalization, an high number of biologic processes remain active, estimated to be around the 10% of vegetable activity. Time of bedding for trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants and flowers, using the modern techniques of cultivation and maintenance, has been so much widened respect to the reference of the ordinary seed or scion plantation. Therefore, plants that are within clod or pot, cared in the nursery, can be planted over the whole year, because their roots system, being pruned and worked during the previous months, is always

The planting hole must be bigger than the clod. ready for the ultimate bedding. However, it is wise to avoid the hottest months, i.e. July and August, considering the high water needs and the risk of desiccation, in case of slow vegetative retrieval. Plants with naked roots should be bedded from November to March, remembering the absolute prohibition on frost and snow times, or with a very wet soil because of rain and thraw.

PLANTS BEDDING AND CARE

After the placement of the plant in the planting hole, the hole must be filled with fertile soil.

2. Quality of soil

3. Available area for bedding

It is useful to understand that soil is the place of development of the plant in its most fundamental part, the completely invisibile roots system. It is the place where roots find nutritional elements to develop stem, leaves, flowers and fruits; therefore, it should be well structured and provided with the ingredients which are useful for plants feeding. It is also important to remember that a basic element for roots is the air. Air contained by soil should occupy the 25% of its volume, through the land porosity. Thus, a soil of good quality is cohesive, buy not compact or pressed, in order to keep empty spaces for air, water and mineral substances. The components that determine a soil of high quality for plants bedding are: Air (20-25) as porosity Mineral substances (40-45%) clay, sand or slime, according to place function and original soil Water (20-25%), as humidity and circulation Organic substance (3-5 %) A soil of good quality must keep water under form of humidity, and also to drain water in excess, therefore never being saturate of water, alternating times of humidity and non-arid dryness.

A vegetable implantation must be performed in proper places. The useful area to start is the implantation pit, being of slightly larger size than the clod size or the volume of roots. A side part of new soil is usefull for growth of new roots. Therefore, an implantation pit for trees, shrubs and all plants must be wide and comfortable for the roots clod. Pit is larger than the clod, having at least 25-30 cm of areas around it or the naked root. Pit has the shape of a reversed cone, with convex bottom, in order to keep the plant slightly higher than the bottom. Irrigation water should not stop and stagnate, having its own surface of deposit and drainage. After putting the plant inside the implantation pit, it is necessary to fill the pit with fertile soil, like the original one, but richer of sand and organic substance, like peat or compost. A light pressure must be performed at the basis of the plant, in order to stabilize the roots clod and the plant itself. During bedding, it is imperative to watch and evaluate the direction of the crown, in order to optimize the visibility of plants towards the main viewpoint. After bedding, it will be impossible to set a new position of the plant or crown, towards the main visual points

Once finished the planting water abundantly. whence it is intended to improve the plant shape. The collar of the plant is the maximum limit of soil filling, therefore the collar shall always be out of ground and never grounded, while the roots must be completely grounded and never exposed, including the most superficial ones. As regards the available space, it is necessary to know the development of plants and foresee the useful space of growth of all trees, shrubs, green and flowered rows.

PLANTS BEDDING AND CARE

It is important to calculate the distances well when planting. PLANTS CLASSIFICATION

DESCRIPTION

MINIMUM DISTANCE

Trees with high stem

Plants with simple stem, or divided in branches. It develops a remarkable height. E.g. walnut, chestnut, oak, poplar, plane, cypress, etc.

3,0 metres from the boundary.

Trees without high stem

Plants of large shrubs, whose stem grows less than 3 metres of height and develops through branches.

1,5 metres from the boundary.

Living rows

Plants as vine, shubs and fruit trees, being not higher than 2,5 metres (except in case of modifications which has been determined by local laws).

0,5 metres from the boundary.

Table of the classification and distances from the boundary for the planting of the plants

4. Exposition, Climate and Distance Before bedding inside the implantation pit, it is necessary to evaluate the needs of exposition and climate of the plants. Mostly, plants require a full exposition to the sun, but we have also many plants of partial shading, and even of full shading under the crown of other plants. Exposition or protection towards sun influence the relation with climate and place of implantation. Knowledge of plants and place is useful to choose the best place and the degree of solar exposition or protection. Trees and shrubs should not be placed too much near houses, sidewalks or buildings. Similarly, it is necessary to respect property limits and distances. When planting carefully assess the distances from the boundary.

PLANTS BEDDING AND CARE

1) Preparation of the tools

2) Preparation of the planting hole

3) Preparation of compost and ground soil

4) Preparation of the clod removed from the container

5) Test of the holeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s depth

6) Insertion of the support pole

7) Application of the safety band

8) Cover the newly planted tree with membrane

9) Cover the membrane with mulch

5. Agricultural operations for engraftment In short, the agricultural operations that are useful for bedding and engraftment of plants, are the following: a. To choose a proper place for solar or shade exposition, with excellent fertile soil; in case of hard and dry soil, let perform operations of tillage, fertilizing and distribution of a portion of sand and organic substance. Wet the soil if it is dry and compact. b. Perform the implantantion pit, having a larger size than the volume of clods and roots. The bottom of the pit should be convex, with a central bump towards high, in order to form a ring around the standing point of the clod, thus favouring the drainage of excessive water, without saturating the roots.

c. Prepare the soil to fill the implantation pit, compo- clod. Open or cut the container/net and fill until the sed by a mixture of local soil (clay â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sand and slime) eventually coupled with an addition of sand, if it is clayey and calcareous, in order to improve soil structure and porosity. Integrate a complete ternary fertilizer with a slow emission of minerals, with nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus and micro-elements, easely available on the market. d. Take the plant and check if the clod is still compact, without pulling it out the container. In case of crumbling, try to compact roots and soil, tightening the container. Place it within the implantation pit and fill 2/3 of it, lightly consolidating the land around the

collar. In case of potted plants, pull the plant out the pot, diagonally cut the roots that developed a spiral around the pot; cut half circumference of the clodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bottom, and open it lightly. Place the plants within the implantation pit and and fill it until the collar with fertile soil, mixed with peat and sand. e. During the plant bedding it is good to keep the collar of plants a bit higher than the plane of land (3-5 cm), because plants slowly move towards the bottom, and their collar risks to be covered by soil. f. keep the soil around the plants lightly loose, and fill it with mulch of coniferous bark or milled wood, or

PLANTS BEDDING AND CARE woodchips of pruning, in order to avoid the presence of lawn or infesting weeds, which could damage the first development of roots. g. Abundantly wet to favour the settlement of soil, new or loose, giving water to the roots clods; it is good to perform wetting operations many times, rather than only one operation with an excessive quantity of water. h. In case of trees or shrubs higher than 2 metres, it is important to place supporting poles to protect plants. According to the size, it is possible to place one, two or three supporting poles. For trees that are higher than 3 metres, we advice to place at least two supporting poles. i. If the place of implantation is in the countryside or requires continuous maintenance and care, it is good to place at the basis of trees and shrubs a plastic collar, in order to protect from rodent animals and cutting machines, which could damage plants. Health of the plant through parasiticidal treatments

6. Care and maintenance after implantantion Man is the main reason that prevents plants from having good characteristics of quality. Many examples of insufficient and superficial care are clearly visible in parks and gardens. If we like to benefit from their presence, and modify their shape and function in accordance with our needs, we should also respect their needs. In short, the main necessities of plants, concerning care and maintenance, are the following: a. Water. It is necessary to grant it weekly, with natural or emergency supply. Weekly water needs are between 50 and 200 litres. b. Fertility of the soil: it could be natural or resulting from the addition of humus, peat and mineral elements. It is good to consider annual fertilizations, using complete fertilizers with slow emission, in order to prolong the effect and decrease the loss. c. Improvement of soil structure, in order to grant a minimum porosity for roots respiration. A simple operation, in this respect, is to distribute sand and peat once per year, within the ground where the crown projection points. d. Health of the plant: it is kept through pesticidal treatments, using during winter specific products against cochineal and defoliator insects. The diseases that are caused by insects, fungus or bacteria during the year must be fought step by step with specific products, after consulting a professional. e. Correct pruning, in order to control the shape and renovate the crown; this is the most delicate and dangerous operation for trees. The way to perform it distinguishes skill and seriousness of the operators. The trees could hardly pay their scarce professional training.

Water, to be guaranteed weekly.

Topiary pruning

Shrubs pruning

Tree pruning

Some guidelines to follow, in order to perform a correct pruning: 1. Never perform large cuttings over the main trunk and the branches that are larger than 10-12 cm of section. 2. keep the shape of the tree, with branches of different length (also small), in the desired direction. 3. Do not remove a quantity of branches higher than 30-40% of the crown. 4. choose cutting tools having mechanisms of automatic disinfection of blades.

5. Perform pruning with appropriate cuttings, never shaving the trunk or main branches. Respect the ability of self-defence of trees, through the creation of callus and self-isolation of the plant. A continuous check should be performed on each plant of garden or park, even during daily walks, using a sixth sense to perceive signals of alarm or danger from the trees: in this way, we can often prevent difficult problems.

PLANTS BEDDING AND CARE

For the planting of hedges, it is necessary to dig the entire planting hole first

Flowering plants: plant them in rows, walking backwards.

SOME DETAILS double iron wire, in the midst of the stem and above, Small plants like flowerings or ground-cove- stretched between two supporting poles. ring plants for flowerbeds. Fertilization and wetting, as described in this book, Generally, they are suitable for all sloping and plane soils. Plant them in rows, walking back to not trample what you just planted. If the soil is very soft, you can place them and watch the density and effect of covering of flowerbeds and hedges; once you have check Bare root: planting compulsory during winter period density and visual effect, you can plant them within the desired places. It is good to plant them few centimetres above the level of soil, in order to anticipate the settlement effect that produces and natural lowering of plants, so that water could wet them at the basis. It is not enough to wet the land: the water must penetrate the soil around plants.

Rows bedding

Pruning of a hedge with motorised hedge cutter

During the rows bedding it is good to firstly create an implantation pit for the whole length of the row, lightly larger than clods or pots. Stretch a string from both the ends of the line, for linear and perfect bedding of plants. The basis of plants should brush, without touching, the main string. Gradually, you will fill the pit, caring for their perfect uprightness of plants. At the end, if plants are still unstable, it is useful to place a pole of wood or cane for each plant; otherwise, it is possible to use a

complete the operations for bedding.

Plants and shrubs with naked roots. We remind that this kind of plants should be planted during wintertime, i.e. during the vegetative rest. At the time of implantation, it is necessary to lightly cut the roots strings that are too much long or deadly colored. Dip for some minute the roots within a container, precedently prepared with tepid water and bordeaux mixture. when roots are well wet and covered by mixture, bed it in full ground, trying to keep the largest main roots opened, and sideways distribute the thinnest small roots. Do not fear to cut and shorten roots strings, rather than create spirals of roots within the implantation pit. Fill the pit with fertile soil, keeping the collar of plants few centimeters higher than the land plane. Moderately compact the soil and wet the loose land, distributing a layer of mulch to protect from infesting weeds. Generally, plants with naked roots are less stable than those within clods, therefore it is good to place supporting poles, according to the plant size. The maximum measure for bedding of plants with naked roots is 14-16 cm of trunk circumference. Larger sizes should be bedded with land clods.

BROAD-LEAVED TREES BROAD-LEAVED TREES Ornamentals and landscaping trees Trees offer a wide diversity of shapes, volumes, colours of leaves and flowers. Trees are present throughout the territory, then it is always possible to find the right tree for our park, line or garden, in accordance with our needs and taste, and at the same time suitable for the available space, climate and nature of soil. With their majestic structures, the constitute the frame of parks and gardens; with their shadow they defend us from hot, with their leaves they protect us from wind and noise. With their size, they can create worthy environments and mitigate difficult situations and non-aesthetic elements. In the struggle against the atmospheric pollution, trees play and essential role, absorbing carbon dioxide, captivating particulate and giving oxygen to the atmosphere.

BROAD-LEAVED TREES

SHAPES AND DEPORTMENT

Spheric

Columnar Large

Conical

Fastigiate

Weeping

Ovoid slender

BROAD-LEAVED TREES

Acer x freemanii

Acer ginnala

Acer griseum

Acer negundo “Odessanum”

A. griseum

Acer davidii

H 12 m Ø 5 m. Tree of small and medium size, characterized by a very ornamental bark of red cinnamon colour, very leaved. Available both with one trunk and multi-trunk, it is suitable for ornamental use in gardens and parks or in isolated form. A round regular half-open crown, with three-shaped leaves of intense green colour, becoming bright orange red at the end of summer and during fall.

after strong pruning, it is necessary to cut branches deportment. Its trunk is green and smooth with white with totally-green leaves, which ofter originate from stripes, thus having a very ornamental character, parthe basis. It can be used in isolated form or scrubs. ticularly during winter season. Three-lobed very large leaves (until 20 cm) of dark green colour, becoming intense yellow during fall. This tree can be used in areA. negundo “aurovariegatum” as that are not excessively exposed, it prefers the halfH 8 m Ø 4 m. It is similar to the previous one, but shadow and well tolerates shady places. It needs a soil with partially gold-stained leaves. Its crown is very with much organic substance. shiny and it is useful for closed and dark places.

A. negundo

A. negundo “Flamingo”

H 10 m Ø 8 m. Tree of small size, present in many different varieties of deportment and colour of leaves. The crown has a rounded shape, tending to go up. It has a rapid growth with a thickly branched crown. Leaves are impari-pinnate, with 3-7 small oval leaves, bright green coloured, becoming yellow during fall. Young wood is smooth, green, covered with a white bloom. A very rustic plant, suitable for all kinds of soil, used for tree-lined roads because of its high resistance to dryness, and within gardens and parks for its high elegance and colour.

A. negundo “Argenteovariegatum” “Variegatum”

A.platanoides (Norway Maple)

H 8 m Ø 4 m. It is a recently introduced variety, a bit less vigorous than the previous ones, but with a very ornamental look. The young leaves that are placed at the apex of branches, come out with a strong pink variegation, and those which are placed under them are white. It keeps the pink colour until the end of summer, creating a very charming polychromism. A shining bright crown gives light to its environment.

H 25 m Ø 15 m. Large tree with a rapid growth, typical of cold climates and hill/mountainous areas. Rounded crown, wide leaves of bright green colour, becoming orange and ochre during fall. It has an interesting yellow flowering with upright clusters, on March. One of the best essences for tree-lines of roads and avenues, because of its resistance to polluted environments. It is a long-lived plant that bears operations of pruning and maintenance.

A.negundo “Odessanum”

A. platanoides “Autumn Blaze”

H 8 m Ø 4 m. It differs from the previous ones for vivid golden leaves during spring, more delicate during summer. Transparent crown that gives light to its environment.

H 8 m Ø 4 m. This plant can be found as tree or bush with many trunks. Leaves are bright green, partially white-stained. It is rustic, without needs concerning A.pensylvanicum soil and exposition. During some seasons, especially H 10 m Ø 5 m. Tree of small size and ovoid slender

H 10 m Ø 5 m. Tree of medium large size, with a columnar conical crown, quite compact. Leaves are bright green, becoming bright orange during fall. It is suitable for dry soils, and it tolerates a partial summer drought. Excellent use in parks and tree-lines, within both rural and urban areas.

Betula pendula “Youngii”

Betula utilis “Jacquemontii”

Betula albosinensis

CARPINUS (Hornbeam) fam. Betulacee C. betulus. H 15-20 m Ø 8-10 m. Tree with deciduous oval green leaves, with clear nervature. During autumn they do not fall, standing upon the tree, even when dry, until springtime. It produces an open rounded crown, when trees have a high crown like sapling; nevertheless, it is often cultivated with ramification from the basis, in order to produce high, free, pruned or shaped rows. It tolerates any kind of pruning and it lives in altitude until 1000 m. It prefers cool soils but grows within dry land also.

Carpinus Betulus

C. betulus “Pyramidalis” (betulus “Fastigiata”) H 18-20 m Ø 4 m. This tree has a fastigiated crown when young, and then it becomes broader at the basis and assumes the shape of a perfect cone. Leaves are Carpinus Betulus darker than the previous variety, falling during au(Chestnut) tumn. It should be used for gardens, parks and aveC. sativa (vesca) (Sweet Chestnut) nues. Its sapling ramification makes it very suitable for H 25 m Ø 10 m. This tree has deciduous leaves narrow and urban areas. and it is widespread, mainly for forest use, rather than landscaping. Its crown is rounded and slender. Probably it has been introduced by Romans, C.betulus “Quercifolia” H 10-12 m Ø 4-6 m. It is a tree with an elegant and spread all around the Alpine and Appennines areslender deportment, having an ovoid and slender as, cultivated for its usefulness (fruits, wood and crown. It grows in slow and regular way, with bright poles) and for its ornamental effect, considering green, deeply lobed leaves, like those belonging to the garish summer flowering, with long lemon the oak tree, remarkably differing from the ordinary yellow spikes and beautiful large toothed leaves. It hornbeam tree. It could be found with basis ramifi- needs deep and permeable soils.

CASTANEA

cation and high sapling ramification. It is suitable for avenues, parks and gardens.

Carpinus Betulus

CONIFERS CONIFERS Of medium and large development. Evergreen foliage (except for Larch, Dawn Redwood and Taxodium, losing leaves during winter) probably constitutes the main interest of this large family. Many of the medium and large development varieties constitute the basic structure of parks and gardens, during all seasons. Other ones are used to create high rows, green barriers and against the wind. Varieties of small size and creeping deportment are often used as alternative for perennials and shrub plants, and for lawn, especially where the latter would entail a difficult care. The wide diversity of sizes, shapes and foliage colour, allow to always find one or more suitable conifers, for any kind of garden, no matter area, place or nature of soil.

Conifers require few cares; they are rarely pruned, except when they are used for rows. It is better to avoid the pruning of tops, or topping, when the conifers see too much high; this operation of trunk shortening, completely eliminate the conical classic shape of conifers, without producing any ameliorative effect for the safety and quality of care. They adapt to all kinds of expositions, but varieties with blue and silver foliage keep vivid these colours, if exposed to full sun, inside fresh and porous soils. As size, we will indicate two measures: the first one, enclosed in parenthesis, it is reached by the plant after 10 years; the second one, it is what it can reach at the end of development.

CONIFERS

SHAPES AND DEPORTMENT

Columnar Large

Conical

Fastigiate

Weeping

Ovoid slender

CONIFERS

Abies concolor

ABIES fam. Pinaceae

Abies genre includes 40 species, widespread throughout the temperate areas of Asia, North America, North Africa and South Europe. In short, abies trees can be defined large trees of very geometrical shape, with persistent acicular leaves. They are often confused with Picea trees, differing for upright cones (Picea trees cones are floppy) and the seam of leaves: Abies leaves are directly attached to the sprigs, Picea leaves are attached through a minuscule stem.

A. alba (pectinata) (Silver Fir) H 20-25 m Ø 4-6 m. A pyramidal shape, with opposite branches, starting from the basis and arranged upon the same level. Leaves are needle-shaped and dark shiny green above, grayish beneath. It is rustic, it tolerates the shadow and areas of constant humidity. It adapts with some problem to calcareous soils. It is used for parks and gardens.

Abies nordmanniana glaucous. It needs porous soils. It is very elegant, suitable as isolated specimen, for pure or mixed groups, or for colour contrast.

A. concolor “Candidans” (Argentea) H 8-12 m Ø 3-4 m. It is pyramid shaped, not always regular, especially during young age. It is a grafting variety of the previous one, wonderfully ornamental thanks to its long azure glaucous leaves. It is used as isolated tree or for groups.

A. koreana (Korean Fir) H 10-12 m Ø 4-6 m. It has pyramidal regular and compact shape. It grows slowly with dark green needles, silver white coloured beneath. It violet-purple cones are among the most decorative of conifers. It is rustic and without needs. It is used as isolated tree, for rows or groups, in parks and gardens of all sizes.

A. cephalonica (Greek Fir) H 20-25 m Ø 4-6 m. It is pyramid shaped and upright cones. Needle leaves, with a pungent shiny green above, glaucous bluish beneath. It is particularly charming during spring. It resists to dryness and well vegetates inside dry soils, including calcareous and rocky. It should be used as isolated tree or within pure or mixed groups.

A. concolor (White Fir) H 20-25 m Ø 4-6 m. It is pyramid shaped, having upright branches and leaves 6-8 cm long, twisted towards the top of branches, which is coloured of vivid

A. nobilis “Glauca” (procera “Glauca”) (Noble Fir) H 15-20 m Ø 6-8 m. It has an irregular and compact deportment, like a narrow pyramid with thick texture. New leaves are gray azure. The large green purplish cones are very charming, becoming brown bronze during mature age. It needs deep and fresh soils, and full sun. It grows slowly, but it has a strong ornamental effect, as isolated tree or within groups of colour contrast.

Abies cephalonica

A. nordmanniana (Caucasian Fir) H 20-25 m Ø 4-6 m. It is a tree with a very ornamental deportment, compact crown and upright cones, pyramidal regular shape, with a large basis. Branches are arranged in regular platforms, foliage is luxuriant and shiny dark green above: beneath, we find an intermediary nervature, generating two silver stripes. Of

Abies pinsapo “Glauca”

Abies alba “Pectinata“

Araucaria araucana

ARAUCARIA fam. Araucariaceae

A. araucana (imbricata) (Monkey Puzzle Tree) H 20-25 m Ø 4-6 m. A large conical and regular shape, changing over the years, becoming round-shaped at the top. It shows a stylized, curious and unusual look, being very decorative thanks to fleshy, rigid, pointed and pungent leaves. Branches are falling in the part of the basis, assurgent towards the top. It is very demanding as regards climatic conditions; it lives well in areas with high atmospheric humidity, and inside non-calcarous, almost acid, loose, fresh but not humid soils. It should be always used as isolated tree, it can adapt to small gardens, considering its very slow growth.

Abies koreana medium growth, very elegant and majestic, rustic, without particular needs. It is used as isolated tree, in rows or groups, for gardens, parks and urban green.

Araucaria excelsa

A. bidwilli

H 20-25 m Ø 4-6 m. It has pyramidal shape. Branches are quite weak and floppy at the edges. Leaves are A. nordmanniana “Aureospica” (“Aurea”) narrow, 4.5 cm long, shiny green and pungent. It lives It has conical and compact shape. Of medium It has less regular deportment, if compared with the only with mild climate. growth, with branches that are twisted towards the general species: new leaves are yellow in springtime, top and covered with short and rigid needles of green creating a beautiful contrast with the previous green colour, tending to gray. It well resists inside poor and foliage. dry soils, even calcareous. It is rustic and suitable for A. excels (heterophylla) medium parks and gardens. H 20-25 m Ø 4-6 m. It has a pyramidal shape that

A. picea, see PICEA

A. nordmanniana “Pendula”

All the branches, including the apical ones, are willowy and falling. It has a quite limited development, rarely it exceeds 10 m. As regards the rest, it is like the general species.

is perfectly symmetrical with horizontal branches. Foliage is needle shaped, thin, tapered, slightly throny It keeps the same features of the previous one, but exal- and vividly green. It is typical of certain Mediterraneting ornamental qualities of glaucous azure needles. an landscapes with mild climate. It is widespread as house plant. This colour remains unaltered only in bright places.

A. pinsapo “Glauca” (Spanish Fir)

PALM TREES THE ROLE OF PALM TREES Despite their tropical origin - except Chamaerops humilis, which naturally grows in Europe also - some of them have been well naturalized in the temperate climate of our country, thus becoming part of mediterranean landscape. Palm trees play an essential role for central-southern regions: they are used for maritime treelined roads, for avenues of entrance, to create groups in parks and gardens, everywhere it is necessary to establish a point of special attention, using specimens that do not obstruct the views. But they are very useful even for small gardens, thanks to their structure, growing only in height and able to create a good shadow.

Butia Capitata

Chamaerops humilis

Chamaedorea elegans In Europe, in it is never used as exterior plant, but as plant of green furnishing and interior landscaping.

CHAMAEROPS

C. excelsa - See TRACHYCARPUS fortunei C. humilis (Dwarf fan palm) H 3-4 m. It is the only spontaneous palm tree of Europe, and can reach 3-4 metres of height. It is often several trunks of various height, covered by blackish Butia yatay hair, sormounted by fan-shaped leaves 60-100 cm long of dark green colour, carried by toothed petioles. C. elegans During spring-summer, it develops yellow flowers, H 3-4 m. A very elegant palm, living outdoor only gathered in panicles 30-35 cm long, followed by in hot climates, where it reaches the height of 3-4 m. shiny green fruits, large like olives. It is very rustic and It is widespread as plant for interior, or it is cultivated adaptable to many kinds of soil, but always fertile within pots and then brought indoor during winter. and humid; it resists to cold, even in continental It has a thin and green trunk, which ends with a areas. crown of 6-8 pinnate leaves, 1 m long and composed by 7-8 pair of lanceolate, sharp, bright green leaves.

CHAMAEDOREA

Corypha umbraculifera

ORNAMENTAL CHRUBS ORNAMENTAL SHRUBS They represent the garden life.

Using the word “shrub” we denominate a plant with woody trunk, and abundant ramification from the basis. Differently from trees, generally having one trunk only, the shrub have several trunks, emerging from the ground. However, we find a certain superimposition between shrubs and other groups of plants. In particular, some species and varieties will be described both under this chapter and the one dedicated to the Trees. They are plants that nurserymen, through the right pruning, can mould as trees and shrubs. Among shrubs we also count the suffrutescent plants, i.e. vegetables that are woody at the basis (Fuchsia, Perowskia, etc.), whose top wilts during winter. Thanks to their flowering, which is staggered over the whole year, to their decorative, falling and evergreen foliage, and to their coloured berries, shrubs constitute the main “life” element of the garden, determining continuous change of its look and colour. They require a minimum care, offering a very wide range of varieties and species that we have selected here.

ORNAMENTAL CHRUBS

SHAPES AND DEPORTMENT

Round-shaped deportment

Arched deportment

Enlarged deportment

Upright deportment

ORNAMENTAL CHRUBS

Abelia x grandiflora

Abelia “Eward Goucher“

ABELIA fam. Caprifoliaceae

It is a caprifoliaceous plant, an evergreen shrub of medium development, with small oval reddish green leaves. The bark is reddish and slightly falling branches, completely covered by small funnel-shaped flowers. It is used in groups, scrubs, medium free or formed rows. It is excellent for pots and boxes.

A. “Edward Goucher” It has enlarged shaped, with pink lilac, sweet-smelling flowers.

A. x grandiflora It has an arched shape, with pale pink flowers.

A. x grandiflora “Francis Mason” Leaves are variegated of green and yellow, flowers are bright pink.

ABELIOPHYLUM distichum fam. Oleaceae

Abutilon pictum “Thompsonii”

“Ashford Red” red flowers “Boule de Niege” white flowers “Golden Fleece” golden yellow flowers “Louis Marignac” bright pink flowers pictum “Thompsonii” vivid salmon-pink flowers; leaves are variegated of yellow. “Souvenir de Bonn” bright orange flowers, veined of dark orange colour; leaves are large, marginated and variegated of cream white. “Violetta” purple flowers.

It is an interesting oleaceous tree, thanks to its early, white scented flowering, with green deciduous leaves. It flowers on February, upon the branches of the preA. magapotamicum vious year. It is also called white forsitya, and like this Respect to the hybrids, it has a more moderate size one, it is pruned just after flowering. It can be used in and a completely different deportment. It is comisolated form, for bushes and free rows. posed by long and very feeble branches that fall and must be supported. Leaves are lanceolate, smaller, dark green. Flowers are very curious, like small fam. Malvaceae floppy lanterns with red calyx, yellow pistils, purple A. x hybridum anthers. It produces flowers during the whole year. It is a group of evergreen shrubs of medium size, planted for its beautiful trumpet-shaped floppy A. megapotamicum “Kentish Belle” flowers, coming without interruption from May to November. The palmate or lobed leaves, also, are very Apricot yellow petals come out its red calyx, and out ornamental, especially the variegated or marble ones. of them, purple stams develop. They resist to sea, if protected from winds. It is used A. megapotamicum “Variegatum” for pots and boxes, in isolated form or groups. It is like megapotamicum, but with yellow-variegated leaves. The most widespread hybrids:

Abeliophylum distichum

ABUTILON

Abutilon Megapotamicum

Acer palmatum “Atropurpureum”

Acer palmatum “Dissectum” in autunno

Acer nefundo “Aefgnteovariegatum”

Acer negundo “Aureovariegatum”

Acer palmatum “Dissectum”

ACACIA (Mimosa) SEE “TREES” CHAPTER. ACER (Maple) fam. Aceraceae

the underlying ones are white-variegated. Pink colour remains until the end of summer, creating a very charming polychromism.

Maple trees surely occupy a very important place for gardening. The here-described species can be cultivated as bushes and trees; therefore, they will be described in this chapter, as well in “Trees” chapter. For practical reasons, the Japanese Maples (A. japonicum and A. palmatum) have been classified apart, after this first list.

A. negundo “argenteovariegatum” (“variegatum”) H 3-4m Ø 2-3 m. It has an upright shape and a bright foliage, partially stained or marginated in cream white. It is rustic, without needs as regards soil and exposition. It is necessary to suppress the branches with the enterely green leaves, often starting from the basis. It is used in isolated form or for scrubs.

A. negundo “Aureovariegatum” It is similar to the previous, but leaves are partially stained or marginated in golden yellow.

A. negundo “Flamingo” Acer negundo “Flamingo”

It is a recently introduced variety, less rigorous of the previous ones. The young leaves at the top of branches, springs out with a vivid pink variegation:

A. negundo “Odessanum” It differs from the previous ones for the vivid golden leaves during spring, becoming brighter in summertime.

ACER iaponicum and palmatum (Japanese Maple) fam. Aceraceae

For practical reasons, as we have already stated, we apartly classify these two species, composing the Japanese Maple Trees. They are generally cultivated as bushes, sometime as sapling. They all have deciduous and typically palmate leaves, with clear nervature. They are extremely decorative, thanks to the elegance of foliage and its colours: an incredible vivacity and fantasy, changing with passing of seasons, from green to yellow, to pink to red to crimson red. They assume infinite variations of shape, able to harmoniously enter every kind of small or large garden. They resist to cold, but they are demanding as concerns the soil: it must be fresh, deep, without humid stagnation, noncalcareous. They should be used in isolated form, or in groups on lawns, within pots upon terraces. They are essential for rock gardens.

ORNAMENTAL CHRUBS

BELOPERONE

see JUSTICIA BRANDEGEEANA

BERBERIS fam. Berberidaceae

This genre belongs to Berberidaceae, including about 450 species that are cultivated for their foliage, their flowers, their fruits. They are very thorny and used for rows.

Berberis WITH EVERGREEN LEAVES They are all very rustic and not demanding as regards soil and exposition.

B. buxifolia “Nana” H e Ø 0,50-0,60 m. It has a very compact round shaBerberis julianae pe. Leaves are vivid green, with yellow flowers. Use: hedges, rocks.

Berberis buxifolia

B. candidula H 0,80 m Ø 1 m. It has an enlarged compact shape, with arched branches. Flowers are yellow on April-May, followed by blackish berries. Use: scrubs, hedges, rocks, boxes.

B. darwinii H e Ø 1,50 m. It has an upright shape and it is thorny. Leaves are small, like holly trees. It produce and abundant flowering on April-May. Use: isolated, scrubs.

B. x frikartii It has a very compact deportment, forming a regular cupola. H 0,80m e Ø 1 m. leaves are elongated, not much thorny, they are dark brilliant green above and white pruinose beneath. Flowers are bright yellow during April-May. Use: excellent for groups.

Berberis thunbergii “Atropurpurea Nana”

Berberis x stenophylla

B. x hybrido-gagnepainii H 1,50-2m Ø 2 m. It has an enlarged deportment, with elongated, not much thorny leaves. Flowers are vivid yellow on April-May. Use: for low rows and boxes.

B. julianae H 2 m Ø 1,5 m. It has upright shape with leathery, lanceolate, toothed leaves, becoming scarlet red during fall. Flowers are yellow, on May, followed by blackish berries. It is thorny. Use: isolated, scrubs, rows. Berberis Linearifolia “Orange King”

B. linearifolia It is similar to the previous one, but with orange flowers.

B. x stenophylla

Berberis thunberji “Atropurpurea”

Berberis WITH DECIDUOUS LEAVES They are not demanding as regards the nature of soil, but require a sunny exposition for a better coloration of foliage. Their flowering is not much interesting. They well tolerate pruning.

H e Ø 2m. It has arched shape, and it is thorny. Leaves are small, vivid brilliant green. Flowers are small B. x ottawensis “Auricoma” and golden yellow on April-May. Use: isolated, scrubs. H 1,50 Ø 1m. It has upright shape and medium foliage of bluish purple colour. It is thorny. Use: B. verrucolosa groups, scrubs, medium formed or free rows. H e Ø 1,50 m. It has an arched shape, with small shiny green leaves, with thorny edges. The flowers are B. x ottawensis “Superba” very garish, golden yellow, coming on April-May. It is H 1,50 Ø 1m. It has arched shape, with dark purple vigorous. Use: isolated, groups, scrubs, medium rows. foliage. It is thorny. It produces an abundant cream yellow flowering on May. Use: isolated, groups, scrubs, medium formed or free rows.

Berberis thunberji “Rose Glow”

Berberis thumbergii “Harlequin”

Berberis buxifolia

7-15 cm long. During spring-summer it produces blue flowers, lake small violets, with ondulate petals.

BUDDLEJA

fam. Buddleiaceae - Loganiaceae They are shrubs of medium size, belonging to Buddlejaceae - Longaniaceae family, with deciduous leaves. Flowers are lilac pink, gathered in long spike during July-September.

B. alternifolia It has a rounded shape with arched and falling branches. Use: isolated, scrubs.

B. davidii B. thunbergii

H e Ø 1,20m. It has an arched shape and its foliage It is identical to the more widespread “Atropurpurea”, is strangely variegated of purple violet and cream but with dark green leaves, becoming intense yellow white. Use: isolated, scrubs. and purple during fall.

B. thurbergii “Atropurpurea” H 1,50 Ø 0,70m. It has a rounded shape, very thorny. Leaves are small, purple red, with dense vegetation. Use: groups, hedges, low formed or free rows.

B. thunbergii “Atropurpurea Nana” H 0,50 Ø 1m. It is the dwarf form of the previous one. It has a naturally rounded growth. Foliage is purple red. It tolerates any kind of pruning. Use: for rock gardens and hedges.

B. thunbergii “Green Carpet” H 1 Ø 1,20m. Its small leaves are very thick upon the branches and bright green, becoming vivid red during fall. It is not much thorny. It has a star-shaped enlarged deportment. Use: for groups or boxes of effect, during fall.

B. thunbergii “Harlequin” Young sprouts are orange-red. Regarding the rest, it is like “Rose Glow” but with a more marked violet colour of leaves.

B. thunbergii “Rose Glow”

BETULA fam. Betulaceae B. pendula

It is a gracious dwarf birch tree of recent introduction, creating an high bush of 1,2 m of height and 0,40 of width. Leaves are bright green, laciniate, fluffy, deciduous. Very interesting for boxes.

BRUGMANASIA (DATURA) fam. Solanaceae

It belongs to solanaceae family, having a tropical look with large, sweetsmelling flowers with floppy trumpet shape. It has a wide semipersistent foliage: it is bright or dark green, according to varieties. It is suitable for isolated use or within boxes.

B. aurea, vivid yellow flowers B. double white, double white flowers B. Grand marnier, salmon pink flowers

BRUNFELSIA fam. Solanaceae B. pauciflora “Marchrantha”

It is a small bushy belonging to solanaceae family. It is evergreen with elliptical leaves of vivid green colour,

It has arched shape and rapid growth, producing spikes of flowers from July to September. It resists to sea. Use: isolated, groups, scrubs. main varieties: Black Night: purple flowers Charming: vivid pink flowers Empire Bleu: dark blue flowers Harlequin: cardinal red flowers, yellow-variegated foliage Nanho Blue: dwarf variety, dark blue flowers Nanho Purple: dwarf variety; red purple flowers. Opera: luminous violet flowers Royal Red: cardinal red flowers. Pink Delight: intense pink flowers.

BUXUS (Box, Boxwood) fam. Buxaceae

They are evergreen shrubs of Buxaceae family, characterized by a thick vegetation with leathery foliage. Generally, they develop slowly, well growing inside fertile soils. They are widely used for rows, hedges and topiary.

B. “Macrophylla x Rotundifolia” It has a rapid growth, suddenly enlarging. Foliage is dark green and rounded. It tolerates pruning very well, and it is the most suitable to mould shapes as spheres, pyramids, spirals.

ROSE ROSE GARDENS, CLASSIC COLLECTION The word â&#x20AC;&#x153;classic collectionâ&#x20AC;? is referred to the roses that are cultivated since long time. Gradually, this list includes the varieties without patent of exclusive reproduction. Since this entire catalogue would not be enough to describe all of them, we will just describe the best qualities, considering the flower (well formed, elegant, with resistant colour) and the plant (healthy, vigorous, with a beautiful foliage, blossoming again). We will classify rosegardens under the following categories: - bushy, with large flowers - bushy, with small flowers in bunches (polyantha and floribunda) - climbing - shrub - sapling - miniature - covering

190 ROSAI ARBUSTIVI E RAMPICANTI

ROSE

ROSAIROSEGARDENS A CESPUGLIO BUSHY WITH A GRANDI FIORI LARGE FLOWERS (IBRIDI DI TEA) (HYBRIDS OF TEA)

È la famiglia che fornisce i fiori migliori da taglio. La loro altezza varia da 60 cm a 1 m. I fiori, grandi e It is the profumati, family thatsi offers theall’apice best varieties forramo; cut. spesso formano di ciascun i boccioli lunghifrom ed eleganti. Their heightsono variates 60 cm Rustici, to 1 m.molto Theirrifioflorenti si impiegano per gruppi e bordure monocolori wers are large and often smelling, forming at the (una sola varietà) o policrome (più varietà alternatetop nei vari colori). of each branch; it buds are long and elegant. They are

rustic, flowering, they are used for single-colour Rossovery scuro (only one variety) or polychrome (many alternate vaAMERICAN HOME BLACK LADYcolours) groups and hedges. rieties of various

CHARLES MALLERIN CHRYSLER IMPERIAL Dark Red GLORY CRIMSON AMERICAN HOME ENA HARKNESS BLACK LADY BRUCE JOSEPH!NE CHARLES MALLERIN Mr. LINCOLN CHRYSLER IMPERIAL PERLE NOIRE

Zingara

Tiffany

CRIMSON GLORY Rosso ENA HARKNESS JOSEPHINE BRUCE DAMA DI CUORI Mr.ERNEST LINCOLNH. MORSE PERLE NOIRE FONTAINEBLEAU

KARL HERBEST

NEW YORKER Red

REDDIQUEEN DAMA CUORI ERNEST MORSE Rosso H. chiaro FONTAINEBLEAU CRITERION KARL HERBEST MERCEDEZ MENDOZA NEW YORKER RED QUEEN Rosa scuro CAPISTRANO

Dr. DEBAT Bright Red

LYNDA CRITERION MISCHIEF MERCEDEZ MENDOZA

Josephine Bruce

MONTEZUMA PAOLA DI LIEGI Dark PinkBALLERINA PRIMA CAPISTRANO TYRIANA

Dr. DEBAT LYNDA Rosa e salmone MISCHIEF ANTHEOR MONTEZUMA ASTREE PAOLA DI LIEGI CARLA PRIMA BALLERINA COMTESSE VANDAL TYRIANA DOLCE VITA

ELIZABETH HARKNESS

HELENPink TRAUBEL Salmon

MARY ANTHEOR MURIA ASTREE PENELOPE CARLA COMTESSE VANDAL PINK FAVORITE DOLCE VITAELIZABETH QUEEN ELIZABETH TIFFANY HARKNESS HELEN TRAUBEL VERSAILLES MARY Arancio e rame MURIA BEAUTÉ PENELOPE DUKE OF WINDSOR PINK FAVORITE HARMONY QUEEN ELIZABETH IMPERATRICE DI PERSIA TIFFANY LOLITA VERSAILLES

Piccadilly

Pascali

Eminence

Karl Herbst

MADAME KRILOFF

MICAELA Copper and Orange WIENER CHARME

BEAUTÉ WITZO DUKE OF WINDSOR HARMONY Giallo IMPERATRICE DI PERSIA AMATSU-OTOME LOLITA BARBARA MADAME KRILOFF BUCCANEER MICAELA GOLDEN MASTERPIECE WIENER CHARME GRISBI WITZO

ROSE

ROSAI ARBUSTIVI E RAMPICANTI 191

American Home

Sultane

Perle Noire

Perfecta

Tyriana

Prima Ballerina

Diorama

Capistrano

Ena Harkness

Duke of Windsor

Buccaneer

Anvil Sparks

ROSAI ARBUSTIVI E RAMPICANTI ROSE 199 51

SAPLING ROSEGARDENS ROSAI AD ALBERETTO

They are varieties of “Rosegardens with large flowers” Si tratta di varietà di “Rosai a grandi fiori” o di or “Rosegardens flowers bunches” or “Minia“Rosai con fioriwith a mazzi” o in “Rosai miniatura” inture Rosegardens, grafted upon trunks of selected wild nestati su fusti di rosa selvatica selezionata ad un’alrose. of graftingè isdigenerally for vatezzaThe che,height generalmente 100 cm100 per cm le varietà a grandi 70 cm and per 70 le varietà con fiori a rieties withfiori, large flowers, cm for varieties with mazzi, 50 cm per le50 miniature. In 2-3 anni divenflowers in bunches, cm for miniatures. After 2-3 tano veri e propri piccoli alberi di rose e riescono years the become very small trees ofnei roses, creating di grande effetto isolati o a gruppi prati, al cen-a great visual effect, if isolated or within groups, tro d’una aiuola di rose, lungo un vialetto. upon lawns, in the center of a in rosevasi bed, along a small avenue. Di facile coltivazione e cassette. They can be easely cultivated within pots or boxes.

Rosaio ad alberetto a fiori rossi

Rosaio ad alberetto a fiori rosa

Giardino con rosai ad alberetto a fiori rosa

Rosaio ad alberetto a fiori rosa vivo

Rosaio ad alberettp a fiori bianchi

CLIMBING PLANTS CLIMBING PLANTS They are essential to cover walls, pergolas, porches, tunnels, and to mask any ugly element; to create green walls, neat to nets and or rails, especially in the city, where a scarce space rarely permits to use shrubs or conifers for rows. Some species and varieties are very useful also as covering plants for the ground, where the maintenance or existance of grassy lawns would be impossible. Someone think that climbing plants would damage the walls; at the contrary, they contribute to preserve their good conditions, for they absorb humidity. It is necessary to watch the development of branches and to prevent, through pruning, that they would invade eaves and roofs. Be careful that leaves would not block drainpipes and water drainage. These are few, simple precautions to have good results.

CLIMBING PLANTS

FEW ADVICES FOR PLANTATION AND CARE OF CLIMBING PLANTS Plantation Climbing plants are often sold within a plastic container; therefore, they could be planted in any time during the year, except the times of excessive hot or frost. Proceed as described for shrubs, concerning the preparation of soil and the plantation. Fro Clematis, see the description aside. Exposition Let plant under full sun: however, Hedera and Lonicera can live also under half and full shadow. Ficus repens lives better under the shadow, even inside buildings. Supports and tyings. Climbing plants must be fixed to the natural or artificial support, so that they are able to climb. As tyings, we should use light strings, raffia is the favourite material. Some climbing plants have air roots, which spontaneously attach to walls and other kinds of support. Nevertheless, they need to be helped with few tyings, during the 2 years following the plantation, especially when we have specimens of remarkable height and rapid effect. Artificial supports Hereafter we illustrate the most common supports (plastic or wood, some of them are can be extended) that could be found on the market for climbing plants. Pruning Being plants cultivated within pots, it is not necessary for plantation. Even later, it must be performed only for justified aesthetic reasons or to eliminate invasive branches. Maintenance It is necessary to give water in times of dryness, and to keep the soil tilth at the basis of the plant. Fertilization is necessary only if the soil is poor. PARTICULAR CARES FOR CLEMATIS Plantation In order to obtain a good vegetation and prolonged flowering, Clematis must be planted inside light, fertile and porous soils, in sunny places. Dig a pit of 40-50 cm in all directions. If the soil is heavy and clayey, put on the bottom a draining layer 10-15 cm high, composed by gravel and pieces of terra cotta. Add sand, peat, mould or heather soil to the filler land. Delicately, take the plant out the pot, in order to keep intact the small clod, and put it inclined, so deep to put under the soil the first 10 cm of the small trunk. Upon the portion of buried, new roots will be created, giving higher vigour to the plant. Give abundant water. Lay at the basis of the plant a light layer of protective material (a tile, straw, dry leaves or other) to protect roots from sun. Equally, we can plant, 1 m far the Clemantis specimen, a shrub of small size, to reinforce this protection and make it lasting. Delicately lay the plant upon the support; during the first year, use a bamboo cane. Pruning Some varieties (“Docteur Ruppell”, “Hagley Hybrid”, “Jackmanii”, “Ville de Lyon”) are pruned in the end of winter, before the vegetative resumption. Pruning means to eliminate all the side vegetation of the previous year, reducing the trunk or the trunks to 40/50 cm from the ground. Other varieties (“Jean Paul II”, “Madame Lecoultre”, “Nelly Moser”, “Rouge Cardinal”, “The President”, “Vyvyan Pennel”, alpina, “Florida Bicolor”, montana, orientalis, “Orange Pell”, tangutica) are pruned in this way: prune the dry parts, for the flowers come upon the vegetation of the previous year. These varieties have the ability, if stimulated, to flower again during fall. After the first flowering, it is necessary to eliminate the weak branches and the seeds remaining in the place of flowers. Clematis with small flowers must be pruned so that their development would be limited.

ROWS, HEDGES AND TOPIARY Aesthetics and Defence Rows, hedges and green barriers not only play an aesthetical role, but they are an useful and functional element to delimit the property; to defend it; to cover ugly elements; to line roads and avenues; to circumscribe flower beds; to protect from dust, winds and noise. The plants that are used for this purpose are not separately classified; they are shurbs, conifers, trees having these particular features: they tolerate prunings, even the drastic ones; they have thick ramifica-

tions, regularly distributed from the basis to the top, ramifications that remain (even if planted very near, both in simple or multiple rows) in order to constitute an uninterrupted, uniform, compact wall. Considering these things, we will indicate the most suitable varieties, according to our judgment, inviting the reader to consult the specific chapters for further description. Some species will appear under more than one category, for they have in the same time ornamental

and defensive features, or because they can be equally used for rows of different height, considering that their development can be reduced to the desired size through by periodic prunings, without damages for their aesthetical look. We will dedicate one page to list the plant that are used for topiary, being particularly tolerant to pruning, the most suitable to create geometrical shapes and various patterns.

ROWS, HEDGES AND TOPIARY

ROWS HEDGES AND TOPIARY Formed Rows To create this kind of rows, we use plant of the same species and we give them the desired shape and form through pruning.

Free Rows This kind of rows are formed by plants of different species, naturally growing without the intervention of prunings, except to eliminate dry or damaged branches.

Topiary In order to create shapes like spheres, pyramids, spirals, animals and items, it is necessary to use plants that are particularly tolerant towards pruning, and we will list the most suitable.

SUCCULENT AND FAT PLANTS DIFFERENT ORNAMENTAL PLANTS It is customary to dedicate this chapter to the plants whose features are not enough to be classified, in horticultural language, under other traditional categories (Palms, Trees, Conifers, Shrubs etc.). It could be possible to create homogeneous groups with these plants, putting together Agavaceae, Liliaceae, Musaceae and so on, but also a rapid consultation is important, and we preferred to list them in alphabetical order, except for Cactaceae. The plants here described fear the cold and they are typical of the mediterranean landscape.

SUCCULENT AND FAT PLANTS

AGAVE fam. Agavaceae With their dense tufts of fleshy leaves, with their very long blooms, coming after several years and often introducing the death of the plant, Agaves constitute the characterizing element of mediterranean gardens. Even with the less favourable climates, they are cultivated within pots and brought inside during winter.

A. americana H e Ø 2-3 m. It has glaucous green, rising, fleshy leaves, with thorny edges and apex.

A. americana “Marginata” It is similar to the previous one, but the edges of leaves are completely coloured of yellow and white.

A. americana “Mediopicta” The leaves have a cream white longitudinal stripe and green edges. Its development is more moderate than the general species.

A. ferox H 4-5m e Ø 2m. It has drak green, rising leaves, with twisted edges and large thorns.

A. filifera H 1 m e Ø 2 m. It is a succulent plant with basal rosetta of narrow green leaves and apical thorn. Its leaves have white edges and long white fibers. Its flowers are yellow-green during summer.

FRUIT PLANTS FRUIT PLANTS There are many ornamental reasons which justify the presence of fruit plants in the garden. The Almond tree is an unforgettable spectacle; in the same way, we see the Peach tree with abundance of pink or lilac flowers. Apricot, Cherry, Apple and Pear Trees, at the time of flowering, transform their crowns in snow-white clouds. And kaki tree can create a unique chromatic effect, showing during winter its yellow-orange fruits upon the naked branches. For sure, fruit farm is in continuous evolution. Each year, from our european and american Centres of Research, new varieties are selected and spread: because of financial reasons, they mainly involve industrial production. In this situation, it is necessary to select in consideration of the fact that this catalogue is addressed to hobbists, desiring the most tasty varieties without particular needs. We have followed this principle for our description.

FRUIT PLANTS

MAIN SHAPES

ASTON Apricot, Almond, Cherry, Quince, Fig, Kaki, Medlar, Walnut, Peach, Nectarine, Pear, Plum.

PYRAMID OR POT Apricot, Azarole, Cherry, Quince, Fig, Kaki, Citrus, Almond, Apple, Medlar, Peach, Nectarine, Pear, Plums.

HORIZONTAL, BILATERAL, UNILATERAL CORD Apple, Pear.

ESPALIER, 2 FRAMEWORKS, 1 FRAMEWORK Apple, Pear

“U” SHAPES Apple, Pear

HALF TRUNK, HIGH TRUNK Apricot, Cherry, Quince, Fig, Kaki, Medlar, Peach, Nectarine, Pear, Plum.

EXOTIC FRUIT PLANTS EXOTIC FRUIT PLANTS

(of tropical and subtropical countries) It is easy to understand that these are plants able to live and bear fruit (almost always) only in the Orange tree area, but even in this place they have different behaviours, according to their sensitivity to cold. They can be thus divided in three groups. In order to give the reader the opportunity to recognize the group and the precautions to take, we will use a conventional sign in brackets at the end of description: (R) : Quite rustic species, it lives and fructify staying outdoor even during winter, without protection. (NR): Non-rustic species, able to remain outdoor during winter, with protection. (D): It is a delicate species that must be protected inside the greenhouse during winter.

HERBACEOUS PERENNIALS HERBACEOUS PERENNIALS They have shrub non-wooden trunks, completely or almost completely disappearing during winter (except for some species, producing a pillow of leaves that persist during winter). But during the following sptring, the air side will appear again more vigorous, and it continuosly happens over the years. That’s why they are also called “perennial”.

HERBACEOUS PERENNIALS

ADVICES FOR PLANTATION OF CARE OF THE HERBACEOUS PERENNIAL PLANTS PLANTATION The are planted during November-April, except for times of frost. Prepare the soil with deep digging, mixing with it well-decomposed manure and proper fertilizer. During digging, carefully remove all the herbaceous plants. If the soil is too much compact, use a little bit of peat; if it is too much poor, enrich it with a mould of well-decomposed leaves. The pit should be larger than the root system. Fill the pit by pressing softly and give water.

ATTENTION If plants that have been cultivated within containers are bedded, removing this latter the root system could remain surrounded by a very thick grid; in this case we advice to untangle the roots by tool, or cut the roots mass in two portions, engraving the side of the pot bottom, opening the roots like an overturned “V”, placing The species here described play an important role for it within the plantation pit. The most part of the species will adapt to a well drained soil without water stagnagardening and the creation of small and large landsca- tion. If several species are planted, we advice to put on the background the tallest ones. Carefully outdistance, ping environments. With their presence, they can avoiding the tendence to plant too much narrowly. interpret several roles and functions, thus livening up and making very spectacular the garden, thanks to CARE their flowers of several shapes and colours. They also The herbaceous perennials do not need particular care, but it is necessary to frequently weed the soil, in order constitute a link between different fields, creating ba- to keep it clean and free from infesting weeds and that would easely dominate the environment. lance between trees, shrubs and lawns. The perennial Give water during the vegetative resumption and during times of dryness. plants have qualities of endurance, rusticity and ele- The suppression of withered flowers will promote the new flowering. gance, creating natural very balanced and open gar- In the end of winter, eliminate the dry leaves and cut close to the groud the trunks of the species with decidens, giving freedom of visibility and and fruition of duous leaf; nevertheless, it is necessary to protect from the cold, by straw or other material, the species that are green areas. Another very important quality is the low delicate or for mild climates. need of maintenance and care, for they are able to ve- Quite always, fertilizing in springtime it is possible to favor the vegetative resumption; repeating the operation getate and keep controlled shapes without cultivation during the flowering, we contribute to make it richer and long-standing. works. Finally, we advice to support the trunks of certain species with large flowers (Agapanthus, Delphinium, Iris Germanica etc.) to avoid their bowing. Considering their nature, the herbaceous perennials, except in few cases, should be always used within The herbaceous perennials are particularly suitable to create flowered groups and full-coloured scrubs; for rock groups, with a good number of plants of the same gardens; for walls, escarpments and hedges; for covering; for pots and boxes and to cut the flowers. species and variety, in order to create a proper scrub that would emerge from the context. WARNING We will indicate the species that prefer a sunny exposition with the “full sun” symbol, while the ones that This chapter also includes: are suitable for half-shady places (light shadow of the trees; nothern side of the house) are followed but the “half-shadow” symbol and thos suitable for shady places (not tolerating the sun for more than 3 hours per day during the hot months) are followed by the “shadow” symbol (see the legend in each right page, at the top). - ORNAMENTAL GRAMINACEOUS The species that have been described are all resistant to cold (also the strong one), and for those less resistant - FERN we will indicate the minimum temperature. If it is not written otherwise, the foliage is deciduous. The species - WATER PLANTS that are resistant to the maritime climate will be indicated.

ORNAMENTAL GRAMINACEOUS ORNAMENTAL GRAMINACEOUS PLANTS The plants, belonging to Graminaceae-Poaceae family always bring an original tone, nicely contrasting with the other plants, especially along the rivers of water, within rocks and compositions of dry flowers. They should be planted under the sun.

ANDROPOGON fam. Poaceae A. scoparius

H 80-100 cm. The leaves are thin, or gray-green colour Arundo donax “Versicolor” and summer-fall flowering of copper colour. It is suitable for fresh loose soils, having a good resistance to dryness.

Carex siederostica “Variegata”

ARUNDO fam. Poaceae A. donax H 150-200 cm. Ø 60 cm; the stalks are solid, with large linear leaves (50-60 cm long), of glaucous colour with white stripes and edges. It is rustic for all the soils, especially the fresh and loose ones. Andropogon scoparius “The Blues”

Carex flacca “Buis”

WATER PLANTS WATER PLANTS In the modern landscaping we see an ever increasing use of water, marsh or oxygenating plants; these latter are different, for they grow upon the water and in submersion. All these types of plant for humid environment are thus used to create and decorate small lakes, streams or waterfalls, pools or other humid elements of naturalistic kind. They are green plants, some of them having also spectacular flowerings.

ACORUS fam. Araceae A. calamus

Darmera peltata

H 60-90 cm. The leaves are deciduous, linear, ribbonshaped, more than 1 m long, vivid green. Spadix bloom, 10 cm long, of yellowish colour, on June-July. Water should be 20-25 cm deep.

A. calamus “Variegatus” H 60-90 cm. It is like the previous one, but its foliage is lengthwise striped of cream white.

A. gramineus “Ogon” H 25-30cm. This plant has evergreen leaves, being suitable for not much exposed places, better in halfshadow. Acorus calamus “Variegatus”

Caltha palustris

FERNS FERNS It is a typical vegetation of the underwood, requiring partial or protected solar exposition; moreover, several ferns live well in humid, peaty areas and neart to lakes, streams and water places. Their foliage, very elegant and decorative, is used to create floral compositions. Generally, they love acid, very fresh soils, rich of humus. The should be bedded in half-shady places and protected from winds; they have an excellent power of regeneration and natural expansion.