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Lawn, Garden & Landscaping

2012-03-23 10:57:04

Planting trees and shrubs

A: Sure! First, you need to know that your problem is quite common, and actually begins with a common mistake most people make—believing that it is time to plant everything that is displayed at big box retailers because they are already “for sale” there. This is not necessarily the case (particularly in flowers). You need to remember that big box retailer buy from suppliers. Those suppliers must meet the demands on time and all plant material must fit certain containers and shelves for transport, storage and display. They also must be ready for display ahead of need. All of this means that some of what you see for sale may be ahead of the season. Rather than use what is for sale as you guide in what to plant, do a little research before you buy and you will likely get much better results. Right now, it is the best time to plant trees and shrubs. Here are some that do exceptionally well in our area: Trees Redbud (15’ x 15’ yellow leaf, red leaf varieties, some bloom white, purple, etc) , Crabapple (Lots of different colors - white, pink, red, generally 15’ x 15’) Shade trees Red Maple (40’ – 60’ several different varieties) The Red Maple is generally the most popular shade tree. Pin Oak (Native oak) Northern Red Oak (grows a bit faster than the Pin Oak, better fall color). Shrubs All shrub types are generally good and will last in Kansas weather. Here are a couple of new ones that do well: -Dwarf Quince (Double Take): (stays shorter and has big double flowers and are drought tolerant!) New --Bloomerang Lilac - Drought tolerant (smell good flower, grows to about 4 ft x 4 ft.). - Drift Roses (very short, 18 inches tall) – generally found in the front of landscape beds. - Reblooming Azaela – Encore and Bloomathon: Generally found in the back of the landscape bed for design, color, etc. Happy landscaping!