Our speaker for the October meeting, Gwen Odermatt is on the
Great Plant Picks (GPP) committee. Gwen gave an engaging talk on suitable plants for small spaces. She included photos of many options. We've put together a small selection of her ideas for developing gardens with big impact.
In choosing plants for small spaces, Gwen suggests looking
at those that are attractive as much of the year as possible. The first thing
to choose is a tree. It will provide height, shade, and privacy. A deciduous
tree is a better choice than an evergreen which can be too dark and closed in,
especially in winter, and will not allow as much planting beneath it. The chosen
tree should be slow growing and have a winter look, such as interesting bark. Some
examples are Acer griseum
which has paper bark.
Magnolia ‘Elizabeth’ which blooms while still young but has
brittle roots so care must be taken when planting beneath it.
Two other trees
mentioned by Gwen are Carpinium carolinian and Oxydendrum arboreum.
Japanese maples are often a good choice with many options in
colour, shape, weeping or upright configuration...choose one that pleases you.
An important concept when planting a small area is to plant
carefully and deliberately. You can have lots of different plants but look for
artistry in your planting so it doesn't become a mishmash. Observe and edit.
Try layering, where as one plant fades from prominence another is rising up to
take its place. For example, Galanthus
appear first,
then hellebores,
then things really take off in spring starting with early flowers such as
Trillium chloropetalum.
By winter, you are back to colourful
bark.
A small water feature has an impact in a small space. Just
the trickling sound will attract attention of visitors to the garden, including
birds and insects. You can develop a unique planting around it.
Containers, whether empty, containing a single plant for
impact, or multiple plants can add interest to the garden. Tender plants would
need to be moved to a sheltered spot for the winter. An example of Gwen’s is
the blueberry Vaccinium 'Sunshine Blue'. It produces all summer so a container
with the plant by the front door provides a constant source of delicious
treats.
The plants suggested by Gwen are only a few of the many suitable
plants grouped together as Small Spaces – Big Impact! Selections on the Great
Plant Picks website. Check out the website for inspiration and growing
information.
The GPP program selects plants and trees that are
hardy and reliable in the Pacific Northwest, have good ornamental value, and available
at least two nurseries on each side of the border. GPP encourages best
practices, including ground covers. Information on the characteristics and growing the plants is
available on their website.
All images courtesy Great Plant Picks.
I'm sorry I missed the meeting. Great info, thx for posting it.
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