WORK IN THE GARDEN

Evening Star, Issue 25470, 28 April 1945, Page 5

WORK IN THE GARDEN

ORNAMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS.

Trees and shrubs arc now putting on their winter colourings, ana where it is intended to make piantings. the sites siiould be prepared at once by vveii digging up the soil and working in wen-rotted material such as animal or prepared refuse from the garden. It is a mistake to think that trees and shrubs will be a success in any kind of soil. The position, too, in which to plant is very important. All kinds of trees and shrubs must have in the early stages protection from the prevailing winds, or they will become deformed and stunted .in growth and never be happy in their surroundings. Good drainage must be assured, as more trees and shrubs are ruined eveiy season through bad drainage than any other reason. If the subsoil is' composed of clay this should, be broken up by using the fork. On the other hand, if the soil is of a sandy nature, it is advisable to place plenty olf haifrotted turf in the bottom of the pits or trenches. It is also most essential that the soil, when planting, is made firm around the roots. Where standard trees and shrubs are being planted, it is wise to put in a good stiff stake, and make it secure to the bole of the tree by using a piece, of cloth or even, rubber tubing and then fasten it with soft cord so that it will not cut into the bark, as many trees are crippled in this way. The following list may be a guide to those who intend to plant.this coming season in these districts:— The Pyrus Mains' (grab apple); ;in variety, are very beautiful, not only wnen in flower, but at the present stage. The fruits are of a beautiful colouring, and will remain so right into the winter months. The oaks Coccina Pulustres and Rubra, should be included owing to their splendid flaming.foliage, but they must have a certain amount olf shelter in the early stages of their growth. Pyrus Aucuparia (rowan tree) should have a place in every garden, as its flaming foliage and berries are a joy. to every lover of Nature.

Rhus Continus (known as the Australian sumach) at the present stage is a glorious sight.'with its highly-col-oured foliage, and its habit is very compact, especially when grown as a oughly enjoys'our conditions. Tamarisks, in variety, should also:be grown owing to their, hardy constitution and beautiful cypress foliage, i-arrying pink, feathery flowers. When grown as standards they are a feature of the garden, especially as specimens tin, lawns, etc.

The Weigelias should not be left out. «s they also are, very hardy and'when m . flower are- very attractive. The variety. Eva Rathe should be. included, the flowers being of a very deep red, .;ompletely covering the arching Branches. The plant is very free -in growth and hardy in these districts. For shrubbery planting,- the viburnums (in variety) should certainly be planted, not only for their flowers, which are sweetly scented; but for the foliage at this stage, of a beautiful colouring. These plants make ideal companions. for the Azalea Mollis. The brooms are delightful shrubs, and have become very popular, especially the hybrid varieties, as th/ey can he obtained in a great.range of colours. These, plants are very suitable for these districts, owing to their- hardy constitutions. The hahit is vigorous, in growth and not fastidious in- regard to soil. If cut after blooming; the plants can be kept in good shape.; The Cotoneasters Franchetti (Harroviana, Seratina,' and" Watiru are ;the pick of these delightful berried shrubs) should be planted for their coloured berries and graceful, habit of growth. All these varieties are very hardy. Chimonathes Fragrans (winter sweet) is very hardy in "these districts,, and produces clusters of lemon yellow flowers in winter, before the foliage appears. " The flowers, being, very fragrant,, are. appreciated by all lovers of flowers. Other good companions for.the Above are the Forsythias in ■•variety. These free-flowering shrubs are a wonderful'sight in the early spring. The flowers hang down in panicles of deep yellow, and are produced before the foliage appears. The -foliage also is rery attractive in the autumn months, especially the variety Viridirsjma. Kalmia Catifolia (calico bush) is a shrub which should be grown more extensively, as the foliage and the large pink flowers are very attractive, but care musV be exercised when planting that no lime is applied to the soil., The plants also 'enjoy' a moist situation, >vith partial shade. The habit is very compact, and when grown successfully reach a height of from four to five feet. '

The Lionptis (lion's tail) is at this stage a very pretty sight,' with its orange-red flowers and deep green foliage." This shrub is'fairly hardy, and is often found growing in fairly exposed positions, but often the foliage becomes, masked when exposed to the prevailing winds, so it is advisable' to plant it where, it will get a little protection.. When planted between other evergreens it is very attractive, and enjoys -this shelter. ANSWER TO CORRESPONDENT.

. " Anple," Clyde street.—(l) The variety. submitted is named Rokewood, a splendid keeper and good cropper. (2) The fruit is affected with black spot fungus disease. (3) Spray when the leaves have fallen with three pints' of lime and sulphur mixed in four gallons of water. Make two or three sprayings. (4) Burn all leaves as they fall from tree; do not allow them to lie on ground. F.S.P.