AUGUST IS TIME FOR TAUPO SHRUB-PLANTING

Taupo Times, Volume VI, Issue 287, 8 August 1957, Page 4

AUGUST IS TIME FOR TAUPO

SHRUB-PLANTING

(By

Flora)

Before the shrub-planting season termiuates at the end of August — anyone planting after that date must be prepared to water copiously throughout the summer — a few thouglits should be given to hedge-planting. This questlon is one which has to be decided at an early stage of garden planning. Every oue does not favour hedgings, as they tend to make tlie garden layout more formal. A mixed border of evergreens makes a good windbreak , but this form of protection takes up more garden space. Wliere shelter is the main consideration, and there is plenty of space, Ihe Lausoiiiana-Oopressus inacrocarpa is ideal. I11 the small garden these impoverish tlie ground for a considerable extent in their vicinity. SOME SUGGESTIONS - The following may be recommended for comparative hardiness and general attractiveness. There are several natives which lend tliemselves to hedge making. Olearia fosteri — tlie golden . j akeake — has pleasing light green foliage, and cutting does not present difficulties. Coprosma Baueri-Taupata : This is used for many coastal gardens and there seems 110 reason why it should

not do well in Taupo. Its bright green leaves are tliick and glabrous and extremely glossy, presenting a contrast to other greens in the garden. One of the most used hedge plants in New Zealand is tlie Escallonia. It is a rapid grower, but it has a sligbt tendency to die out suddenly. The most compact of hedges is the Chinese honeysuckle, lonicera nitida; if clipped regularly it soon forms an impenetrable barrier. It is even said to be dog-proof, surely an advantage in Taupo. A deservedly popular hedge is Photinia glabra rubens. Its brilliant red foliage is very cheering. LOW HEDGES A plant growing in popularity as a coastal shelter is Pliebalium billardeiri. It is a native of Austfalia, and lias narrow grey leaves, slightly aromatic. It remaini to be seen whetlier it will appreeiate Taupo conditioiis. Low interior hedges: I11 paris of tlie garden there may arise tlie need for a low liedge for division purposes. For this, plants of 1 lower ing or berrying type are deliglitful. There are lavender and rosemary with their sweetly smelling foliage, Tlie floribunda rose is growing in popularity in sueli a situation, and gives a long tlowering season. The japonicas also are often used, but they need a fair amount ofk attention to keep them within bounds. All the Berberis are attractive, and stand the coldest of winters. Some have autumn colours, while otliers have brilliant berries. Oue, B. Daurini, has bright yellow fiowers in tlie spring.