Plant Care and Propagation

Shrubs

Shrubs often form the framework for the garden. They often provide year round interest and are great for giving the look of maturity to an area. With such an array of sizes, shapes and colour to choose from there is a shrub to suit any situation or site within the garden and can be invaluable at providing architectural interest.

shrubs Shrubs As shrubs are often permanent features within the garden it is essential to ensure the area is well prepared before planting. Dig well adding organic Farmyard Manure or other organic matter into the area to improve soil structure and nutrient levels. Also add a general fertiliser to the ground such as Bone Meal Root Builder.

Water well for the first year to help shrubs become well established. In following seasons watering is often only required in periods of drought.

Feeding regularly with Westland Rose Food maintains healthy nutrient levels and ensure plants can thrive. Mulch after planting using Bed and Border Chipped Bark for large borders and areas, and a finer mulch such as Decorative Mini Bark for small borders. Mulch regularly in subsequent years when the ground is wet and warm.

Keep a watch on early shoots for the first signs of pests. Many pests such as aphids coincide their life cycles with the growth pattern of your plants, so as your roses and shrubs burst into growth this provides vital food for the first generations of this year’s pests. Be vigilant and deal with them as soon as you see them using Plant Rescue Bug Killer Ready To Use for Ornamentals.

5 Top Shrubs

1 – Silver Birch (Betula pendula)

White, peeling bark
2 – Kilmarnock Willow (Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’)

Can be grown in a container. Silver catkins in later winter
3 – Magnolia campbellii

Large goblet flowers in a variety of shades
4 – Killarney Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo)

Large shrub/small tree with shredding bark, white flowers and red berries
5 – Paper Bark Maple (Acer griseum)

Peeling orange-brown bark