Winter planting Trees forthesmallergarden

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 3, Issue 14, 27 August 1985, Page 23

Winter planting Trees forthesmallergarden

For smaller gardens with sufficient shelter from the wind, the many varieties of the maple give a wide choice in size and colour. Acer Palmatum the Japanese Maple is perhaps the most suitable. There are many varieties within this group all of which would suit the smaller garden, but care must be taken to give adequate protection from the wind. Favourite among the spring flowering trees is the lovely flowering Cherry. However small your garden it is worthwhile making room for one of these. Members of the Prunus group which includes peaches, almonds etc. there are many varieties to choose from and all are so beautiful as a herald of spring. Prunus 'Kanzan' with its double pink blossom has

always been a great favourite and 'Pink Perfection' is another beauty. 'Shirotae' of spreading habit with semi double white blossoms, and 'Ukon' with its lime green flowers are just a few of the many varieties to choose from. The Malus varieties are worth a mention. These lovely flowering crab apples are an asset to any garden, both for their spring flowering and the lovely colourful fruits later. Malus 'Profusion' with double rose pink blossom and rosy purple foliage, and Malus 'Wright's Scarlet' with its large brilliant fruit are two worth considering. Follow instructions If you have purchased your trees from a nursery pr garden centre you will usually find instructions for planting on the reverse side of the label. It is always advisable to read these instructions and be guided by them. In the absence of any instructions be sure you dig the hole large enough to contain the roots of the tree comfortably

spread over the base of the hole. Provide a solid stake for all young trees and this should be secured into the ground at the time of planting, the tree tied firmly to the stake with a strong tie in a figure of eight motion. It is important to use a material for the tie which will not cut into the bark of the tree. An old nylon stocking makes an excellent tie. This should be checked from time to time and replaced as necessary as the trees grows. Some well rotted compost or well seasoned animal manure can be added to the soil at the time of planting. Strong chemical fertilisers are best avoided at this stage. When refilling the hole with earth, give the tree a shake from time to time to remove air pockets, and tread firmly down when filling is completed. A saucerlike depression on the surface of the soil will help to collect and to conserve moisture. Water well in. All young trees should be adequately supplied with water especially in very dry periods.