 |
|
Amelanchier lamarckii is a must for its white spring flowers and copper new leaves, followed by fiery autumn tints.
Choose ornamental varieties of British natives if using these is a priority. Create contrast by pairing the foliage of Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy' with Catalpa bignonioides 'Aurea'. Combine the deep pink flowers of Crataegus 'Paul's Scarlet' with pale pink Malus 'Golden Hornet', and autumn will yield an abundance of red and yellow fruits. Introduce winter interest with a cluster of Betula utilis var. jacquemontii, planting close together for intermingled branches of ghostly white.
Blend the woodland area with the rest of the garden by enclosing it with progressively smaller shade tolerant shrubs, both evergreen and deciduous. Rely on evergreen aucuba, elaeagnus, Viburnum tinus, Arbutus unedo, mahonia, Crinodendron hookerianum, Prunus laurocerasus 'Otto Luyken', Daphne laureola and Euonymus fortunei cultivars. Useful deciduous shrubs for spring interest include Viburnum carlessii 'Aurora', fothergilla, Corylus avellana 'Contorta', exochorda, ribes, Corylopsis pauciflora or Enkianthus campanulatus. |
|
Lead the eye towards the woodland area with an archway framing the path, and preserve open spaces elsewhere in the garden as a contrast.
Container grown trees can be planted now, if you prefer not to wait until bare rooted stock becomes available in the autumn. Choose small but vigorous specimens, since these will root more quickly. Prepare planting holes well, adding plenty of organic matter, and tease apart tangled roots. Stake to one third of height and water copiously for the first year. Keep the soil around new trees free of weeds, grass or other plants using herbicide or circular mats for the first year after planting, to allow them to establish successfully. Paths and sitting areas can be constructed, and surrounding shrubs, perennials and pot grown bulbs can be planted, away from tree trunks.
In subsequent years, monitor trees, pruning judiciously where necessary to contain height and spread, or to eliminate disease. Mulching annually in spring will replenish nutrients and preserve moisture, and watering well once or twice a week in dry spells will ensure the survival of your oasis. |
