knowhow

Large plants save so much time in waiting for plants to grow, giving the garden the look of maturity straight away. Today, many of our clients do not want to wait for their garden to grow – and indeed some people will have moved house and started a new garden before their existing one has reached a maturity. Our range of large plants include: Magnolia Philadelphus Cotinus Photinia Myrtus Elaeagnus Laurels Ligustrum Pittosporum Camellia Taxus We are one of the leading stockists of large plants in the area and the specimens listed above is just a small selection of what we have available at Arundel Arboretum. The process of buying large plants can seem a little bewildering at times as there are so many factors to take into account, and it is an investment, which you want to get right. Good quality mature plants will enhance your garden and the look of your home – possibly adding value at the same time as providing a very pleasing outlook. Choosing the right specimen Large plants can offer environmental benefits throughout their lifetime. It is important to select the right variety for the site conditions that will benefit the plant and the homeowner.  Plants must be able to thrive in their environment and the conditions of the site are key to their survival. As you will see from our About Us page, we consider all this when advising you on the best species for your garden. Large Plants Functions High-quality plants, when planted and properly cared for, can become a long-lasting asset to your garden. A large, evergreen shrub will provide screenage for privacy or a windbreak if your site is exposed. Large deciduous trees will provide an elegant outlook during the summer months whilst in leaf and during the winter months, you can admire their silhouette and formation when the leaves have fallen. Choosing the correct form and size It is very important to remember that when you buy large plants they will continue to grow and therefore you must always consider the space you have available, together with the future maintenance that the large plants will require.   You could consider the following shapes: A low spreading tree e.g. Prunus Serrula A narrow evergreen e.g. Cupressus sempervirens A clear stem standard tree e.g. Photinia Red Robin Planting of large plants It is vital when planting established plants and trees (and indeed all trees and shrubs) that the top surface of the root system is left proud of the surface of the soil. Failure to do this will stunt the growth of the plant, stop it from flowering or eventually even kill the plant. Maintenance of large plants Maintenance of any tree or shrub for your garden is highly important, especially in the first year. This is the time the tree or shrub is undergoing the most stress. It is vital that you are aware of your ground conditions for watering. Any new plant will require watering when it is first planted. We recommend that you allow the ground to start to dry out before watering again. In some ground conditions, you will be watering every day or every three to four days.  You need to work with your ground conditions. We would always recommend adding fertiliser to the ground after planting. Add around the root system not on top of the roots. Adding fertiliser around the root system will encourage the roots to spread out further, thus creating a stronger root system. The first feed should be approximately 6” away from the roots, then 12” – 18” and so on for the first year. We would recommend feeding approximately every 4 weeks for the first growing season. Please do call in and visit us to see the extensive range of large plants that we have available. Our staff are always on hand to advise you and assist with your choice of plants.