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Our fruit trees have done very well again this year. They produced a mass of blossom in the spring, and are now showing a good crop of fruit. Fruit trees are a natural addition to any garden. Even if you have limited space, there are many varieties that will grow happily in a pot in a corner of your garden or on a patio. They’re also popular because they can add structure and interest to your garden, with the added benefit of the fruit come harvest time! We also particularly like fruit trees because they are so good for wildlife. Here at Arundel Arboretum, we’ve had another thriving year with our nesting birds and all our bird boxes have again had birds successfully rearing their young. The insect life that fruit trees encourage works in harmony with our bird life to keep insects and bugs under control in a totally natural way. We wouldn’t have it any other way and you’ll never see us spray any of our stock – fruit trees or otherwise. We have a wide range of fruit trees in stock. This includes apple (eating and cooking), pear, quince, fig, vines and medlar in a range of sizes, including some half standard apple and pear trees. A visit to our nursery is highly recommended so that you can see all that we have to offer. Some of the varieties we currently have include:- Quince – Vranja Vranja quince is one of the most popular varieties grown in the UK. It produces a large, pear shaped, yellow fruit. The tree has a spreading habit with moderate growth. Vranja is easy to grow in the southern UK or against a south facing wall, although it is a light cropper. The fruit produces an excellent flavour, ideal for making tasty jams, jellies and marmalades. The picking time for the fruit is in October. Mespilus germanica – Medlar Mespilus germanica is a small deciduous medlar tree with long leathery leaves. These turn golden yellow\brown in the autumn, with white flowers in the summer. Mespilus germanica fruits resemble small apples, which are hollow at one end. They’re best eaten when they’ve softened (bletted), preferably after a frost, and can be made into preserves and jellies. A popular fruit historically as a fruit that could be consumed during the winter months. Victoria Plum The Victoria Plum is probably the most popular plum, producing large fruits with a yellow-green flesh and pale red skin. It’s a reliable and heavy cropper, but thinning is often essential. Ideally, the fruits should be left on the tree until they are fully ripe – the taste will be delicious and suitable for eating and cooking! The Victoria has a poor resistance to disease and its period of use is late August.  It is self-fertile and comes under Pollination Group B. Apple – Greensleeves – dessert apple Greensleeves produces a medium size fruit and is similar to Golden Delicious. It is hardy and easy to manage. The skin is pale green that turns pale yellow. Greensleeves fruits early in life, and can produce heavy crops.  The flavour soon fades when stored. Picking time is September. Apple – Bramley’s Seedling – cooking apple Bramley’s Seedling is the most popular cooking apple. It produces heavy crops of large fruit with a creamy flesh that is full of flavour. It grows vigorously, so is best suited in a larger garden. Bramley’s Seedling is often a biennial cropper. The skin is yellow-green which is lightly striped with red. Picking time is mid-October. We probably have one of the largest ranges of fruit trees in the area. Our website is just a small fraction of the choice of fruit trees we have to offer. Our helpful staff will be very happy to assist you in the purchase of a fruit tree suitable for your garden.    

The continued dry spell of weather has seen our gardens struggling, meaning our grass has been turning straw-like and plants flagging in desperate need of water (although as we write this it is raining!). Garden centres in West Sussex are working hard to keep their stock looking in perfect condition, and Arundel Arboretum is no exception to that. The commitment and hard work by everyone here to help ensure that the nursery and our stock continue to look very impressive. When should I water? If you can, watering your plants in the early morning can avoid evaporation and moisture loss during the day. If the day is very warm, it might be useful to water in the evening too. Newly planted trees and shrubs will need very careful monitoring to ensure they are getting enough water to establish themselves. It is wise to work with your ground conditions and keep the ground on the dry side of moist. Plants in pots will almost certainly require watering daily. What is the best way to water? Hoses and watering cans are often the best method so that you can aim the water to exactly where it is needed. However, with many areas on a hosepipe ban, and with water being such a precious commodity, we would encourage watering with watering cans and leftover washing up water (making sure it is “clean”)!  It is surprising how much of your garden you can water this way – you will be surprised! If you have many plants to water, another option is to consider installing an irrigation system. This consists of a length of pipe with holes in, placed in your beds around the plants that will require water. The pipe is attached to your hosepipe. The pipe can be hidden in the soil or beneath mulch. When switched on, it provides a gentle trickle of water to your plants. This is a very effective way of watering and we have installed this system for a number of our clients, if this is a service you think you would like then feel free to contact us, we are more than happy to help. During exceptionally dry periods, it is a good time to consider whether we can incorporate more drought tolerant plants into our garden. We have touched upon this subject before and you can find out more information here. We have also given advice on tips for watering too and you may like to read this. Here at Arundel Arboretum, we are always happy to answer any of your questions or concerns about looking after your plants, especially during this long, dry summer.

It’s still possible to create lots of colour and interest in your summer garden, even if you don’t want to use bedding or herbaceous plants. Summer plants, especially shrubs, create structure and shape to your garden and are a haven for wildlife. Summer flowering shrubs are easy to grow and require little maintenance, which is ideal during the summer months when all you want to do is sit back and enjoy all your hard work! There are many summer plants to chose from, but here is a small selection you could consider, which we currently have in stock: Hydrangeas Hydrangeas are a popular choice, as they’re an easy to grow summer flowering shrub. We have many varieties in stock including: Hydrangea macrophylla Zorro – a rounded upright, deciduous shrub. It has deep purple stems, dark green leaves and stunning pink flowers. Plant in partial shade in a sheltered position in a moist, well-drained soil. It has an eventual height and spread of 1 – 1.5m. Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Koria’ – this Hydrangea has white flowers in late summer. Plant in full sun or partial shade, in a sheltered position. An eventual height and spread of 1 – 1.5m. Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Charme’ – with rosy pink delicate flowers. Plant in full sun or partial shade. This Hydrangea has an eventual height and spread of up to 4m. Lavender angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ Lavender Angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ is a dwarf, bushy evergreen shrub that’s a real haven for bees. The narrow silver-grey leaves support their deep purple flowers during the summer months. Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Buddleja davidii ‘Moonshine’ Buddleja is also known as ‘the butterfly bush’ with good reason! Butterflies, bees and other insects love them. Buddleja davidii ‘Moonshine’ is sweetly scented and rich in nectar. Plant in a sunny position and it will flower from July through to September. They have an eventual height of 5’ and a spread of 2’-3’. At Arundel Arboretum, we have many summer plants to choose from. Why not pop in and see us soon – our knowledgeable staff are always able to help and advise on the correct summer plants for your garden.  

At Arundel Arboretum we have a beautiful and extensive range of evergreen trees as well as evergreen shrubs. Not only do they bring all year-round colour but we have plenty in stock too. They are great plants to use for privacy or even screenage. We can advise you on the most suitable evergreen tree or shrub for your garden and garden needs, we always consider where you are situated and how this can affect the plant as well as what your budget is. Of course, it does come down to what you are trying to achieve too, whether you are trying to block something out or possibly softens and aspect in your garden. Our extensive range of the evergreen trees and shrubs cover plants that grow fast (Leylandii) and plants that are tolerant of salt conditions (Griselinia Littoralis) – great for homes by the sea. Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ tends to be a popular choice due to it being beautiful during springtime. Arundel Arboretum offers a selection of plants, either as bushes or as half standards and full standards. The benefit being, of half standards and full standards, is the ability to plant smaller shrubs underneath. Some evergreen trees and shrubs you could consider include:- Ligustrum japonicum lucidum ‘Excelsum Superbum’ / Variegated Chinese Privet Ligustrum japonicum lucidum ‘Excelsum Superbum’ is an evergreen tree. This is popular when being used as a screening tree due to it bringing in a good amount of light into your garden rather than just blocking it out. The plant has ovate leaves that are tinged light green with creamy-yellow edges. Ligustrum japonicum lucidum ‘Excelsum Superbum’ produces beautiful cream coloured flowers in late summer. These are followed by black fruits in the autumn (although please note not for human consumption). The tree will grow perfectly in shade\semi-shade. It is a hardy evergreen, but may drop its foliage if the temperature falls below -10. Hoheria sexstylosa ‘Snow White’ A popular choice is Hoheria sexstylosa ‘Snow White’. This evergreen tree has a pyramidal shape.  It produces large amounts of wonderful white flowers in June\July.  It has a height of 5m (eventually). It can be pruned to a size in keeping with its surroundings. Hoheria sexstylosa ‘Snow White’ is classed as reasonably hardy and should be able to withstand temperatures between -5 to -10.  However, if it’s on an exposed site or in severe weather conditions, it can be damaged.  We do recommend providing some shelter in cold areas. Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ is a striking form of Choisya ternata. It is a medium-sized evergreen shrub with a rounded habit. The attractive bright young yellow foliage is aromatic when crushed. It produces small clusters of fragrant white flowers. Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ can be planted in full sun in a sheltered position. It has an eventual height and spread of between 1.5m and 2.5m and should be planted in a moist, well-drained soil. Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’ Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’ is a compact evergreen shrub, with small light green oval shaped leaves. It produces pretty tiny purplish-black flowers in spring. It has a moderate growth rate, but please note this is usually slower if it is planted in a shady position. Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’ has a rounded growth habit, and it does respond well to trimming. It is therefore ideal to use as a hedge or keep as a specimen shaped architectural shrub. It has an overall height of 1m eventually. At Arundel Arboretum, we have a great selection of evergreen trees and shrubs suitable for all conditions, where your home is or weather conditions too. Feel free to pop in and see our extensive range. As always, our informative and friendly staff will be happy to advise and assist you in selecting the perfect plants for your garden.

If you have limited space in your garden, with some careful planning, you can still create an attractive area to enjoy all year round. There are many styles of garden that look beautiful in smaller spaces, here are some of our favourites for you to consider: A Classic Garden This style of garden will give you a simple, elegant look. To create a feeling of space, create a focal point with a specimen plant to draw the eye. A geometric style can be achieved with topiaries and trimmed evergreens in pots. Using matching plants and pots will help to complement this style. If you would like to add a splash of colour, consider planting seasonal flowering plants, such as Agapanthus. A Cottage Garden Cottage gardens are very informal, and there is usually a lot of plants to create a “busy” look.  They create a relaxed style and have a simple layout. Consider arranging your plants close together so that the soil is hidden. Planting shrubs for seasonal interest is something else you can consider. Both Hydrangeas and Cornus (Dogwood) are good choices as they provide colour in autumn and winter months. This garden is ideal if you have time to devote to it. A Wildlife Garden Even in a small space, there are plants for small gardens that will encourage wildlife. Here are a few suggestions of other things you could do to attract wildlife: A selection of plants in pots Climbers along fences or walls, such as Trachelospermum jasminoides. A water bath for the birds and insects will be very welcoming A log pile behind a shed will be a haven for frogs, toads and hedgehogs Crab Apple trees are perfect as their flowers attract insects in the spring, and berries grow in autumn and winter which is a great food source for birds Lavender is an ideal plant for bees Whatever space you have, we will be able to advise you on plants for small gardens.

Evergreen trees and shrubs make an excellent choice if you are looking for year-round colour, interest and screenage. Brighten up your garden all year round not just through particular months, with the wonderful plants we have to offer. Evergreen trees and shrubs hold their foliage year-round, but in the spring will naturally shed last year’s foliage as the fresh new growth bursts into life. Most evergreen trees and shrubs require little maintenance except for an occasional prune to keep them in shape – but do be aware that some evergreens cannot cope with being hard pruned, and this can actually spoil their beauty. Evergreen plants have a constant interest so they are ideal if you want a tree or shrub to act as a focal point in your garden. They come in many guises – various heights, foliage type (for example leaf-form or needle-like) and colour. However, most evergreen plants are predominantly varying shades of green. Here at Arundel Arboretum, an evergreen tree nursery based in Arundel, West Sussex, we have an excellent range of evergreen plants in stock. Our knowledgeable staff are always available to help and advise you in choosing the right plants for your garden. There are a few points to think about when considering purchasing any plant, and you should include the following: – How much space do you have? Will the tree or shrub have enough space to grow? Are you looking for an architectural shaped plant or a natural shape? What are your ground conditions? What direction does your garden face? Prevailing winds may damage some delicate foliage if it gets very cold. Are you considering keeping your plant in a pot? If this is the case, please do bear in mind that you should remove the plant from its container every other year, trim off 10% of the root system, refresh the compost and re-plant. This keeps the root system and plant healthy. Are you looking for particular foliage colour and type? What is the ultimate goal for the plant – a focal point in your garden or plants for screenage? We have an impressive range of evergreen trees and shrubs in stock now, and to get you started, here is a small selection from our extensive range to choose from: – Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ – this is a firm favourite and has become increasingly popular over the years. It is highly ornamental and can be grown as a standard or half-standard tree or a shrub – either as a stand-alone specimen or as a hedge. Its dark green leaves are a stunning vibrant red when the new growth emerges in the spring. Clusters of tiny white flowers emerge from pink buds in April and May. Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ is very easy to grow and will be happy in most soils apart from heavy clay. It will grow happily in full sun and partial shade, in a sheltered or exposed position. However, it is best to avoid full shade positions. Further information on Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ can be found here. Hoheria sexstylosa ‘Snow White’ Hoheria sexstylosa ‘Snow White’ is an evergreen tree with a pyramidal shape. This is also becoming more popular now as it is so versatile and can be grown as a shrub, standard or half-standard tree. We also have them in stock on frames.  It produces masses of stunning tiny white flowers in June\July.  It has an eventual height of 5m, but can be pruned to shape and size. Hoheria sexstylosa ‘Snow White’ is classed as reasonably hardy and should be able to withstand temperatures between -5 to -10.  However, if it is on an exposed site or in severe weather conditions, it can be damaged.  We would recommend providing shelter in cold areas. Taxus baccata (English Yew) Taxus baccata is a medium-sized evergreen tree or shrub with a bushy growth habit. It has exceptionally dark green, narrow leaves. The female plants can produce flowers in spring and these will be followed by red fruits in the autumn. Taxus baccata make an ideal choice for hedging as they can grow in full sun, full shade or partial shade. They have an ultimate height of 12m and a spread of 8m, but this can take between 20-50 years! They need a well-drained soil. Please do be aware that the seeds are highly toxic if they are ingested. Laurus nobilis (Bay tree) Laurus nobilis is an evergreen shrub with leathery, aromatic leaves, which can be used for cooking. During spring, small flowers appear in dense clusters that are yellow-green. In the autumn, oval shaped glossy black fruits will appear. We have a good selection in stock, including bushes, spirals and standards – these are ideal for planting in pots. Laurus nobilis can be planted in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered or exposed position. They too require a well-drained soil – so do bear that in mind if you are planting in a pot. They have an eventual  height of 12m and a spread of 8m+, but again they can take up to 50 years to reach full maturity. Viburnum x burkwoodii (Burkwood Viburnum) Viburnum x burkwoodii is classed as a hardy evergreen shrub, but if planted in colder regions or exposed sites it may lose its leaves in winter. The dark green leaves are complemented with delicate and gorgeous, highly fragrant white\pale pink flowers from mid-late spring.  Viburnum x burkwoodii has an eventual height and width of approximately 1.5-2.5m and grows very well in full sun, full shade or partial shade. The shrub prefers a moist, well-drained soil. Arundel Arboretum evergreen tree nursery, is a leading stockist of evergreen trees and shrubs in Sussex. We look forward to and welcome your visit to our nursery.

Here at Arundel Arboretum tree nursery in Sussex, our stock is looking exceptionally good. It’s certainly benefitted from the recent rainfall, which always has a positive impact. There are so many trees and shrubs to choose from at our tree nursery, it is difficult to know where to begin! 5 plants that are looking good now include:- Malus x robusta ‘Red Sentinel’ Malus x robusta ‘Red Sentinel’ is a medium-sized deciduous tree. It produces fragrant, single white flowers in spring. These are followed in the autumn by clusters of cherry-like deep red glossy fruits that last well into the winter. Malus x robusta ‘Red Sentinel’ can be positioned in full sun or partial shade, in either a sheltered or exposed spot. It prefers a moist, well-drained soil and has an eventual height of 4-8m and spread of 4-8m after 10-20 years. Malus ‘John Downie’ Malus ‘John Downie’ is a small deciduous tree. In spring, it produces a mass of white flowers that emerge from pink buds. Bright red\orange-yellow fruits appear in the autumn, along with yellow foliage. Malus ‘John Downie’ can be planted in full sun or partial shade, in an exposed or sheltered position. Plant in a moist, well-drained soil. It has an eventual height of 8-12m and spread of 4-8m after 20-50 years. Acer griseum – Paper bark Maple Acer griseum is a simply stunning small, slow growing deciduous tree, which produces paper-thin curls of cinnamon bark on the trunk and main branches. These will become translucent in the light. The leaves turn a stunning red-orange in the autumn. Acer griseum prefers a sheltered position and moist, well-drained soil and has an eventual height of 8-12m and spread of 4-8m. Hibiscus syriacus ‘Woodbridge’ Hibiscus syriacus ‘Woodbridge’ is a medium sized, upright deciduous shrub. It has lobed, dark green leaves. The single deep pink flowers, with dark red centres can be up to 10cm wide. Hibiscus syriacus ‘Woodbridge’ prefers full sun in a sheltered position, either south or west facing in moist, well-drained soil. Hibiscus syriacus ‘Woodbridge’ has an eventual height and spread of between 1.5m-2.5m after 5-10 years. Ceratostigma willmottianum Forest Blue Ceratostigma willmottianum Forest Blue is a bushy, spreading deciduous shrub. Small clusters of blue flowers appear during late summer and continue until early autumn, with the lance shaped leaves turn red in the autumn. Ceratostigma willmottianum Forest Blue can be grown in full sun or partial shade in an exposed or sheltered position. It prefers a moist, well-drained soil and has an eventual height and spread of 0.5-1m after 5-10 years. Our hydrangeas, Japanese maples, Weigelia ‘Bristol Ruby’ and Weigelia ‘Rubidor’ are still giving a good show of colour too. Here at Arundel Arboretum tree nursery, we have a wide variety of trees, shrubs and conifers to enhance all your garden requirements. We look forward to welcoming you to our tree nursery.

Customers are often concerned about screenage and privacy issues. They visit us for advice on fast-growing shrubs for privacy, to plant. They often want to screen off a new build project, an extension to a neighbouring property or advice on replacing existing trees or shrubs that may have died. Evergreen shrubs are an excellent choice as once established they can provide dense and all year round screenage.  The shrub has great additional qualities such as; being a natural windbreak, being ideal for wildlife and much more aesthetically pleasing than a brick wall! Most evergreen shrubs require little maintenance to keep them looking good – a trim once or twice a year should suffice. From our vast knowledge and experience, we are aware that our customers require fast-growing evergreen shrubs for privacy, and we always have a good selection in stock for them to choose from. When visiting Arundel Arboretum, we will run through some basic fact-finding questions which will include: Where do you live – for example, do you live near the sea? In which case you need to choose a shrub that can cope with salt conditions. You could consider Quercus ilex, Griselinia littoralis, Euonymous japonica or Tamarisk The chosen location in your garden – if you are selecting a shrub for privacy, it is likely to be planted near a wall or driveway. Is there enough room for the plant to spread? Also, you will need to remember that root systems grow down as well as along and this needs to be considered too. We would not recommend, for example, planting Bamboo in this situation as they have a vigorous, invasive root system. Size – make sure you discuss with your plant specialist the eventual height and spread of the plants so that you can be sure your proposed site can accommodate the plant’s requirements. Our knowledgeable staff will be able to help you with this. Ground conditions – always choose plants that will thrive in your conditions – again, this is something we can help you with. Also, consider which way your new plants will face in your garden – north\south\east\west and ensure it can cope with the weather conditions too. Looking around your local area to see what other people have in their gardens is always a good indication to see what grows well. We do have an excellent selection of evergreen shrubs to consider for privacy, but one worthy of consideration is Prunus laurocerasus ‘Rotundifolia’.  This variety of Cherry Laurel is a fast growing evergreen shrub. It produces a very dense hedge, with large, glossy green leaves. During the spring, upright spikes of white flowers will emerge, which are followed by cherry-red berries going into the autumn. These will eventually ripen black. Do be aware that these berries are harmful if ingested. This shrub can grow happily in full sun or partial shade, in an exposed or sheltered position. It is also suitable for damp, shady areas; or dry, shady areas. It cannot, however, tolerate coastal or chalk conditions. Prunus laurocerasus ‘Rotundifolia’ has an eventual height of approximately 5m. Here at Arundel Arboretum, we have an excellent selection of Cherry Laurels in stock, a great fast-growing shrub for privacy. Feel free to drop by for a visit and we will happily assist you with your purchase.

Now that the majority of leaves have fallen from the deciduous trees, the berries are very conspicuous and it reminds us that they are there to serve a very important role over the winter months for our wildlife. Over the winter months, our trees and hedgerows will provide a vital food source for our birds, insects and mammals. Planting an appropriate tree or hedgerow in your garden will not only benefit our wildlife to ensure its survival, but you will also be rewarded by being able watch the wildlife flourish in your garden. If you don’t have a large garden, you could consider planting a tree in a large container. Trees benefit wildlife all year round It is not only during the winter months that we should consider what a valuable asset a tree is to wildlife. During the spring and summer when the trees are coming into leaf, insects will be attracted to them. Birds raising chicks will pick off the insects to feed their young. This is a natural way of keeping the insect population down and it alleviates the need to use sprays. Over the years, we have erected many bird boxes at Arundel Arboretum to encourage bird life as much as possible. This method has resulted in us never having to spray our stock against an insect infestation. Buying a tree to encourage wildlife There are a number of things to consider when buying a tree to benefit wildlife. A thorny tree would be good as a nesting site, as this will provide extra protection for nesting birds from squirrels raiding their nests. It is always wise to consult your local tree supplier for the best advice on what would be suitable to plant. Here at Arundel Arboretum, we are passionate about wildlife and some trees to consider include: Amelanchier ‘canadensis’ is a small deciduous tree with green foliage, which turns yellow-red with orange-copper tinges in the autumn. Amelanchier ‘canadensis’ has masses of small white, fragrant flowers, which appear in April and May. These are followed by red-green fruits in the summer, which eventually turn black. Amelanchier ‘canadensis’ is suitable for most soils, but it is best to avoid chalky conditions. It will thrive in full sun and partial shade. Crataegus persimilis ‘Prunifolia’ is a variety of Cockspur Thorn. In our opinion, it is one of the most attractive of all thorns. It produces green, glossy leaves turning a blaze of orange, red and yellow in the autumn. Masses of white flowers appear in May, followed by bunches of large, rich, red fruit from autumn onwards. Crataegus persimilis ‘Prunifolia’ a small tree that can withstand heavy pruning, and is an exceptional wildlife tree – the ideal tree for nesting birds as the large thorns deter cats and squirrels from climbing the tree and disturbing the nests. A very hardy tree – “as tough as old boots”! It can withstand north, south, east or west positions and clay to chalk soils. Malus ‘Evereste’ is a small deciduous tree, which is broadly conical in shape. It has an eventual height of approximately 16 feet.  Their large soft pink to white flowers emerge from scarlet buds in April and May and dark green leaves, which turn yellow in the autumn. It produces yellow-orange fruits that can be used for culinary purposes and if left on the tree, will often last until after Christmas. Malus ‘Evereste’ is great for wildlife, and is especially a hit with the bees. It can also withstand north, south, east or west positions and dry ground. In the past, we have witnessed fieldfares eating the crab apples when snow is on the ground! Sorbus aucuparia is a small, native deciduous rounded tree with greyish-downy winter buds. They open to dark green leaves in the spring, which turn red or yellow in the autumn. Sorbus aucuparia produces clusters of white flowers in late spring, which are attractive to bees. Orange-red berries follow in the autumn and these have big appeal to the thrush family. Sorbus aucuparia is a good choice for a small-medium garden. It will also grow in difficult conditions, and can cope with polluted and exposed sites. It is a magnet for wildlife. To encourage wildlife further, you could also consult your tree supplier for advice on planting a native hedge. Hedges provide food for many birds, animals and insects. Your hedge will provide a nesting place for birds, and hedgehogs can shelter at the bottom of the hedge. You may even be lucky to find wood mice further up in the branches. We would recommend your native hedge mix include: Crataegus monogyna (Hawthorn), Acer campestre (Field Maple), Prunus spinosa (Blackthorn), Fagus sylvatica (Beech), Euonymous europaeus (Spindle) and Viburnun opulus (Guelder Rose). This mix will provide a good food source for wildlife. Arundel Arboretum, your local tree supplier, will be happy to assist and advise you on the best trees and hedging plants to incorporate into your garden plans in order to encourage wildlife.

It is hard to believe that we are now midway through October. The deciduous trees and shrubs at Arundel Arboretum are beginning to show their spectacular autumn colours. Autumn can be the most colourful season, and choosing the right autumn plants is key. Autumn gardens can be an explosion of colour, including yellows, fiery reds and flame coloured oranges. Here at Arundel Arboretum we can advise you on some of the best autumn plants for your garden, and purchasing them now will ensure you have the best idea of their potential as you can see exactly how they display in Autumn. There are so many wonderful autumn plants, it would be impossible for us to mention them all! However, here is a small taster of the autumn plants we currently have in stock: Cornus florida ‘Rainbow’ (Flowering Dogwood) Cornus florida ‘Rainbow’ is a deciduous conical shaped tree or multi-stemmed shrub. It has slightly twisted mid-green variegated leaves which are margined yellow. Cornus florida ‘Rainbow’ has stunning autumn colours of red and purple. During April and May it produces small green flowers which are surrounded by white bracts. The approximate maximum height is 3m and spread 2.5m. It is a hardy plant and will tolerate a full sun or partial shade position, and prefers a well-drained soil. Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ (Sweet Gum) Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ is a very popular form of Liquidambar. It has delightful lobed-shaped leaves, which are bright green in spring. It is very suitable for the average garden and features stunning, rich autumn colours. They start turning yellow and then orange, claret red and purple. All colours can be showing at the same time so it is a real feast for the eyes. The pH of your soil will depend on the vibrancy of the autumn colours and ideally it should be lime free or acidic. This deciduous tree has an upright, conical habit and will bring a specimen feature to your garden. It prefers a sheltered position away from winds but likes full sun. An added feature in the winter is the cork that develops on the wood of the tree. When fully grown it will reach heights of between 12-17m, although if left could eventually reach heights of 25m, it can however, be hard pruned to keep the height more suitable to your conditions. Parrotia persica (Persian Ironwood tree) Parrotia persica is a short trunked, deciduous, spreading ornamental tree. Its deep, ovate green leaves turn crimson and gold in the autumn. Parrotia persica branches are horizontal in habit with a silvery-grey bark. As the tree matures, this flakes to reveal shades of pink, green and yellow young bark. This tree can tolerate most conditions – sun or shade, acid or alkaline soils, exposed or sheltered positions making it an attractive purchase. For the best autumn colours, it needs an acidic soil. Parrotia persica is intolerant to drought, and does best in well-drained, moist soils. It is a very hardy tree, but it is best to choose a sheltered spot so that there is less chance of the late spring flowers being affected by late frosts. Parrotia persica is closely related to the Witch Hazel family. Euonymous alatus (Winged Spindle tree) Euonymous alatus is a large, deciduous, slow growing shrub. Its green leaves appear in the spring and follow through to the summer. The foliage is light on horizontal branches, which give the shrub an attractive structure. Small, green flowers appear in the spring, which will become red-purple berries, which are very attractive to the birds! These berries will later split to reveal orange seeds, these are a feature of many Euonymous varieties. During autumn, the leaves start to flush cerise-red, turning crimson for several weeks. It can look spectacular, especially if it is planted in an open, sunny position.  It is well worth a visit to Arundel Arboretum to see our extensive range of autumn plants in their splendid colours. We are always very happy to advise and recommend a suitable autumn plant for your garden.

Most gardens will have some form of shade; this could be caused by the direction your garden faces, existing trees and hedges, fences or buildings. With some careful planning, taking into account the shady areas, it is possible to maximise your garden with correct planting. Things to take into consideration when deciding which plants to buy for shady areas: You will need to take into account the areas in shade and whether it is partial or full shade. You will need to determine whether your shady garden is dry or wet. A number of factors can cause a dry area, from walls and fences sheltering the beds to existing trees and their roots. Falling leaves will prevent rain from penetrating the ground and keeping the ground moist. Equally, if your trees are shallow rooted, they will also keep the ground dry. If your ground conditions are damp, your soil conditions are likely to be cool and moist. If you have clay soil, it will retain moisture well, and ferns would be an ideal choice here. Adding compost to dry conditions will help the ground to retain moisture. Wet ground conditions will benefit from adding gravel or grit to improve drainage, but it is important to make sure you don’t create sump conditions. Having a shady garden should not be seen as a negative, as there are many shade-loving plants that will brighten any shady or dark part of your garden. At Arundel Arboretum, we have many plants suitable for a shady garden. Consider Fatsia japonica, Rhododendrons, Pieris, Choisya ternata and Choisya ternate ‘Sundance’. We would highly recommend:- Acer palmatum Acer palmatum is a slow growing, deciduous Japanese maple, which can be grown as a shrub or small tree. The delicate foliage of Acer palmatum is small, five-lobed and deep green in the spring. These turn a stunning red in the autumn. It has an overall height of between 6-10m. Acer palmatum requires well-drained soil with an acidic pH, which will enhance the autumn colours. It can be grown in a semi-shaded position, as too much sun will scorch its fragile foliage. Camellia japonica Camellia japonica has lush, shiny green leaves, which look fresh during the winter months. Camellia japonica produces beautiful, colourful flowers from February through to April. They prefer a moist, acidic, well-drained soil, and are happier in a partial shade position. Too much sun can depress their flowers. They also need to be protected from frost, and it is wise to prune after they have flowered to encourage new growth. They have an eventual height and spread of 1 – 1.5m. They will require extra water during dry summer conditions. Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a small, bushy evergreen shrub. Its dark green leaves can be up to 10cm long. Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ produces clusters of red buds during the winter, which open out to fragrant white flowers in the spring. They prefer a moist, well-drained soil, and have an eventual height and spread of 1-1.5m.  

If you have limited time to invest into your garden, but would still like a haven of peace and tranquillity to escape the pressures of modern day life, creating a Japanese garden is well worth considering. Once created, a Japanese garden should be relatively maintenance-free, as they largely consist of hard landscaping, complemented with plants, water features and ornaments. If you are fortunate enough to have an area of sloping ground to create your garden, this will add charm to your design, but a flat area can be equally as pleasing. Structure and Themes A Japanese style garden design should include a simple structure, avoiding straight lines and symmetry. Japanese gardens are mainly inspired by nature, so materials such as gravel can be incorporated to represent a river for example. You could even include a boulder to represent a mountain. Using your plants to create different areas of your garden will give you designated areas for eating and relaxing. Different themes include Zen and Shinto, and your chosen theme characterises the function of your garden. They typically symbolise important natural elements, for example water, forests and mountains. These elements are complemented by the planting, incorporating simple shapes. Water Feature A Japanese garden design should include water. This could be achieved by creating a pond or stream. Water features often include waterfalls, cascades and low bridges, or even steppingstones. If your garden is too small to accommodate a large water feature, this could be achieved by installing a stone basin that is fed by a spout, often made of bamboo. The Plants When designing your Japanese garden, it is important to remember that your plants will grow and spread. Consider how this will affect your design in years to come, and accommodate their needs now. Think about how they will look – do they need to be planted individually as a specimen or would they look better in a group? Once you have decided on your plants, it is a good idea to place them where you think they should go, before committing to planting them. That way, you can ensure they are in the best position for future growth and your enjoyment. Remember too, that your plants, particularly Japanese maples, will change colour during the year, and you will want to plant them where you will get maximum benefit. When you are ready to buy Japanese maples you simply must pay us a visit, we stock a fantastic range. Here’s our top 3. Acer palmatum ‘Katsura’ is a deciduous Japanese maple with an upright growth habit. Its 5-7 lobed leaves are yellow-orange with tinged pink edges in the spring, green in the summer, turning bright yellow\orange in the autumn. They prefer a partial shade location, as full sun and lack of moisture can cause leaf scorch. They should be planted in a sheltered spot, with moist, well-drained soil. Acer palmatum ‘Katsura’ has an ultimate height and spread of 2.5 – 4m. Acer palmatum ‘Japanese Sunrise’ is another deciduous Japanese maple to consider. In spring its green leaves emerge, turning darker during the summer, and golden yellow in the autumn. Depending upon the age of the plant and the time of year, it can have a spectacular bright red bark. Acer palmatum ‘Japanese Sunrise’ should be planted in partial shade, in moist well-drained soil. It has an eventual height and spread of 0.5m Acer palmatum ‘Crimson Queen’ is a medium sized deciduous Japanese shrub, with a weeping\arching habit. Its delicate, feathery leaves consist of 7-9 deeply cut lobes. These appear reddish-purple in the spring, holding its colour during the summer, although some fading can happen. In the autumn, it appears a stunning crimson red. Acer palmatum ‘Crimson Queen’ produces small purple flowers and fruits. It should be planted in a sheltered position in partial shade, and be in moist, well-drained soil. Leaf scorch will occur if it is planted in full sun and is lacking in moisture. Acer palmatum ‘Crimson Queen’ is an ideal Japanese maple for small spaces, and can be planted in containers or even considered for pond-side planting. Its eventual height and spread is 1.5-2.5m. To complete the look of your Japanese garden, you need to include the right ornaments. These range from sculptures, basins and birdbaths. An essential ornament is a stone lantern, which have featured in Japanese gardens for centuries. To buy Japanese maples, it is always wise to seek professional advice so that you purchase the rights plants for your conditions. Here at Arundel Arboretum, we are able to advise you on the best plants for your garden.

With the majority of us leading busier lives, there is often little time to give our gardens the care and attention they need and deserve. With some careful planning and planting, your garden can still be the sanctuary you desire and can therefore enjoy. No garden will ever be totally maintenance free, but there are many ways to ensure that your gardening tasks can be kept to a manageable level. Here are a few ideas to get you started: Things to consider At the design and planting stage, give thought to how much time you have for your garden. If time really is premium, it would be wise to plant evergreen trees and shrubs as they will require less maintenance. Watering – watering your garden in the early years of establishment is vital for your trees and shrubs’ survival and ensure they will flourish and give you many years of enjoyment. If watering is a major issue (for example if you are frequently away), it would be wise to avoid planting up lots of containers. These require a lot of care – from the initial planting to re-potting, weeding and feeding. Consider planting a mixture of large specimen plants and some younger plants. Your large specimen plants will give you instant impact, but younger plants can establish more quickly and therefore require a little less attention. Borders and weed control – laying a weed suppressing membrane overlaid with mulch or attractive gravel can reduce weeds. It is vital however, to lay the membrane and mulch to the canopy of your plants. You must keep the top surface of the root systems of your plants exposed so that they can breathe. Please see our planting guide for further information on how to plant correctly. Covering over the root system will stunt the growth of your plants, stop them from flowering, make them much more susceptible to disease and eventually kill them. Keep the design of your borders simple – preferably with straight edges, as curves are harder to mow or edge successfully. Plants to consider Choosing low maintenance plants is key to your garden design. There are many interesting shrubs to choose from, including:- Pittosporum tobira ‘Nanum’ (dwarf Japanese Mock Orange) Pittosporum tobira ‘Nanum’ is an evergreen shrub. It has deep green, glossy leaves with small heads of creamy-white scented flowers which appear in the summer. Pittosporum tobira ‘Nanum’ is an excellent shrub for coastal conditions. It can be planted in full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of windy and coastal conditions. Pittosporum tobira ‘Nanum’ will grow on most soils except waterlogged or chalky conditions. It is slow growing and has a compact growth habit.    Leucothoe walteri ‘Zeblid’ Leucothoe walteri ‘Zeblid’ is a dwarf evergreen shrub. Their leaves are glossy when they first emerge, becoming dark green during the summer. In autumn and winter, they transform into a spectacular ruby red. Leucothoe walteri ‘Zeblid’ has small white flowers in spring. They like a moist spot and full sun to enhance their colours to full effect, but they can tolerate light shade.    Nandina domestica ‘Firepower’ (dwarf Heavenly Bamboo) Nandina domestica ‘Firepower’ is a compact, evergreen shrub. Its leaves are yellow-green during the summer, turning orange and red in the autumn and winter. Nandina domestica ‘Firepower’ produces small white flowers in the summer. Nandina domestica ‘Firepower’ thrives in well-drained fertile soil and to get the best autumn colours, prefers full sun and being sheltered from the cold. Magnolia grandiflora (Bull Bay) Magnolia Grandiflora is a large evergreen tree or shrub. It has glossy, leathery dark green leaves, with a rusty-brown underside. Magnolia Grandiflora produces highly fragrant, cup-shaped white flowers in late summer and early autumn. They prefer a sheltered position, with well drained soil, and can tolerate full sun or partial shade. Myrtus communis half standard (common Myrtle) Myrtus communis is a bushy, evergreen shrub with dark green glossy leaves, which give off a fragrant aroma if crushed. It has an abundance of fragrant white flowers and their white stamens are quite conspicuous. The flowers appear in July and August and are followed by purple-black berries. Myrtus communis thrives in full sun, with well-drained soil and can even tolerate frosts. However, it will need to be protected if it is in a particularly cold area. Myrtus communis will enhance a sunny border or can be grown successfully against a south or west-facing wall. We also stock them as half standards which can look spectacular. These will enhance your planting and will give height and definition. 

Evergreen trees hold their foliage all year round and are therefore a perfect choice for year round interest as they have constant ornamental qualities and prevent a garden looking bare. Evergreen trees are low maintenance as they do not shed their leaves so no leaf clearing in the autumn! Be aware however, that they naturally shed some foliage just as we shed our skin and some may require occasional pruning to get them in shape. Any shedding will be replenished with fresh, new growth. As evergreen trees have a constant interest, they can act as a natural focal point to your garden design. Depending upon the variety you choose, they can also be grown in containers adding a further feature to your garden. Evergreen trees come in different heights, foliage type (e.g. needle-like or leaf form) and colour. Most evergreens however, are predominantly green. Like all trees for your garden, you are advised to choose wisely and here at Arundel Arboretum, we are always on hand to help with this. You need to consider the different shapes and sizes available, together with foliage colour and type and your ultimate goal for your purchase. Is it for a focal feature or screenage for example? Also consider your ground conditions and that not all evergreens can cope with hard pruning as some can lose their beauty afterwards. We will always be on hand to assist with the factors that need to be considered when making your purchase. 3 evergreen trees to add year-long interest to your garden could include: Arbutus unedo (Strawberry tree) is an interesting small garden tree. It has dark green leaves and produces spectacular, pendulous white flowers that are followed by bright red fruits in the autumn. These are very popular with the birds! It also has a rough reddish-brown flaky bark, which is equally attractive. Arbutus unedo makes a good screenage or specimen tree, it is tolerant of pollution and will grow happily in a sheltered position in full sun so it’s ideal for a city garden. Cotoneaster ‘Cornubia’ is a vigorous growing large evergreen shrub or small tree, with an arching habit. It has semi-evergreen leaves that are long and pointed. Only a very harsh winter will result in loss of foliage. In June and July it is covered in masses of white flowers which are very attractive to bees and other insect life, as they are attracted to its very strong scent. An abundance of beautiful red berries are produced in the autumn. Cotoneaster ‘Cornubia’ will tolerate most conditions including exposed and coastal sites, providing it has well drained soil and is planted in sun or semi-shade. Olea europaea (Olive) is a small-medium sized, hardy evergreen tree. It is excellent for screenage or a stand-alone specimen. Olea europaea has grey-green leathery leaves, which help to form a dense head. It is very easy to maintain as a shaped plant or left to “do its own thing”. Olea europaea can withstand hard pruning that should be undertaken in the spring when the last of the frosts have disappeared. Olea europaea look stunning in pots, but ensure they have good drainage. They will grow well in full sun, but will cope with windy conditions, although they need to be protected from salt winds. When planted in beds, they make a fabulous feature tree, as they create height and interest in the bed. They will also produce edible fruits, but do not eat straight from the tree, they are very bitter! They also need to be cured before they can be eaten. Arundel Arboretum are leading stockists of evergreen trees in West Sussex and we are always available to help advise you on the right purchase for your conditions and requirements. Please do come along to our nursery just outside Arundel to see our excellent, extensive range of evergreen trees.

Large shrubs bring many benefits to your garden. These include providing privacy (which is  always a concern for many of our clients) together with instant maturity. Arundel Arboretum is one of the leading stockists of large shrubs in West Sussex and we  have many specimen shrubs available. We understand that investing in mature shrubs is a big  commitment and we will ensure that we assist you in making the right choices for your  garden and its conditions. We supply excellent quality that will not only enhance the appeal  of your garden, but will also improve the overall look of your home. In addition they bring  benefits to wildlife. 5 large shrubs you could consider are:- Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ We have mentioned Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ in previous blogs, but it continues to be a  favourite with many of our clients. It is an ideal evergreen specimen shrub, coming in many  forms – bush, standard and half standard. It is very appealing too, as it is a highly ornamental  shrub with dark green leaves. The new growth comes out a brilliant red and is followed by  small white flowers in April and May. The flowers are sometimes replaced by bright red fruit  later in the summer. Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ can be kept regularly trimmed which will  enhance the colour and produce dense foliage. This therefore makes it an ideal shrub for screenage too. Eriobotrya japonica ‘Coppertone’ Eriobotrya japonica ‘Coppertone’ is an evergreen shrub that has dark green leaves. The new  spring foliage has a copper tint to it. In early spring, fragrant pink flowers appear. Eriobotrya  japonica ‘Coppertone’ prefers a sunny, sheltered position and well-drained soil. It is fairly  hardy, but would be vulnerable during periods of extended extremely cold weather. Magnolia grandiflora ‘Goliath’ Magnolia grandiflora ‘Goliath’ has short, broad dark green glossy leaves, which are green  beneath. It is an evergreen shrub producing cup-shaped, waxy flowers. The flowers appear  from late summer into early autumn. They are highly scented and off-white in colour.  Magnolia grandiflora ‘Goliath’ has a spreading habit, so it is an ideal shrub to train as a  climber. It enjoys a sunny position and is hardy. Quercus ilex Quercus ilex is an evergreen shrub with leathery green leaves, with a pale white-grey  underside and short hairs. Quercus ilex is very hardy and an excellent choice for coastal  positions, as it is able to withstand the salt conditions. It likes a well-drained soil and will  cope with being hard pruned. It is an ideal large shrub for screenage. It will also be happy in  shady positions. Camellia japonica Camellia japonica has lush, shiny green leaves, which look fresh during the winter months.  Camellia japonica produces beautiful, colourful flowers from February to April. They prefer  a moist, acidic, well-drained soil and are also happier in partial shade, as too much sun can  depress the flowers. They need to be protected from frost and it’s wise to prune after they  have flowered to encourage new growth. We always have an extensive range of large shrubs suitable for all conditions, and our  friendly, knowledgeable staff are always able to assist you with the right choices for your  conditions. As the majority of our stock is in containers, you can purchase your large shrubs  at any time of the year. We are always delighted to help with any questions you may have, so please do not hesitate  to contact us.  

The foliage on our Japanese maples has come out spectacularly and the Japanese maple area of the nursery is looking stunning! In previous blogs, we have concentrated on Buying and Caring for Japanese Maples and how to Create a Japanese garden with ease. Both of these blogs will give you lots of information on how to look after your Japanese maples – just follow the links. Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum) are deciduous trees, and depending upon the variety will grow to a height of 8-9m over a fifty-year period. Their ground conditions will also play a big part in the speed of their growth. Japanese Maples will add elegance to any part of your garden plan, bringing a graceful growth habit and fantastic spring, summer and autumn colours. Japanese Maples can be grown very successfully in pots, which is ideal for a small garden. They will also grow well in sheltered, sunny or partial shade positions, again depending upon the variety. They do require the position to be sheltered in order to protect their delicate foliage. The red and purple varieties do require a degree of the sun to help them develop their full, dark colours. We have an extensive range of Japanese Maples in stock now, although as we mentioned in our previous blogs, there are over 1,000 recorded varieties, so it is impossible to stock them all! The varieties are derived from Acer palmatum, Acer japonica and Acer shirasawanum. However, we are sure to have one suitable for your garden, whether you are looking for a weeping, upright or spreading habit tree. Here is a small selection of Japanese Maples you could consider:- Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Garnet’ Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Garnet’ is a deciduous, medium-sized Japanese maple. Its lobed leaves are dissected with seven lobes. The leaves are a deep reddish-brown in summer, turning slightly brighter in the autumn. Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Garnet’ produces small, purplish flowers which are followed by red fruits. It can grow in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered position. Its eventual height is approximately 1-1.5m with a width of 1.5-2.5m. It should be grown in a moist well-drained soil. Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ is a large, deciduous Japanese Maple with a round habit. Its large, seven-lobed green leaves turn a brilliant orange-scarlet in the autumn. Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ produces small red flowers and fruits. It has an eventual height of 2.5-4m and a spread of 2.5-4m. Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ can be grown in full sun and partial shade in a sheltered position, in moist well-drained soil. Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’ Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’ is a large deciduous Japanese maple that can be grown as a shrub or small tree. Its coral red, young branches are a very prominent colour during the winter months. The five lobed leaves open a pinkish-yellow in the spring, turning green during the summer, before turning yellow in the autumn. Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’ produces small reddish flowers. It can be grown in a sheltered position in full sun or partial shade in a moist well-drained soil. Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’ has an eventual height of 4-8m and a spread of 2.5-4m. Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Orangeola’ Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Orangeola’ is a small deciduous Japanese Maple with a graceful, spreading habit, with a rounded shape. It produces orange-red foliage in the spring, which turns a bronze-red during the summer months, before turning a deep fiery orange in the autumn. Tiny, reddish-purple flowers appear in the spring which is followed by red-flushed green fruits in the summer. Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Orangeola’ prefers a sheltered position in moist, well-drained soil, and has an eventual height of 2-2.5m and a spread of 1-1.5m. Acer palmatum ‘Shidava Gold’ Acer palmatum ‘Shidava Gold’ is a deciduous, upright Japanese Maple with an open growth habit and excellent form. It produces bright green leaves and a striking green bark. Acer palmatum ‘Shidava Gold’ was first discovered as a witch’s broom! The new leaves appear yellow-green in the spring, turning green in the summer, before turning a golden yellow in the autumn. It has an eventual height of 2m and can be grown in a sheltered position in full sun or partial shade. We look forward to welcoming you to Arundel Arboretum – we have an excellent range of Japanese Maples in stock. It is well worth a visit to appreciate their stunning colours now.

Many customers are often concerned that if their garden is near the coast, they will be very limited on the plants that will be able to cope with their conditions, and therefore survive. Coastal gardens are susceptible to gales during the winter months and drying winds during the summer months. This can lead to their foliage scorching and their fragile stems to break. Coastal gardens also have to cope with salt-laden winds, which only tough plants will be able to tolerate. In order to expand your choice of plants for your coastal conditions, it is very wise to first invest in suitable plants to create a windbreak. Creating a windbreak can make a huge difference and is often much more effective than building a wall or erecting fence, as during strong winds, the wind can blow through the windbreak plants which act as a filter. Coastal plants often have tough, leathery foliage or hairy leaves. These help to protect the plant from potential salt damage, and also help to reduce moisture loss. There are many factors to consider when purchasing tolerant plants, and here’s some of the main points: It is always a good idea to observe gardens in your area to see what is already growing successfully. This will give you an indication of what plants to consider for your garden Know your area – consider how far back from the sea you are, and whether your garden is sheltered or very exposed Consider the coastal plants you wish to use as your windbreak, and what will work with these to create your beds Is your garden in a very windy position? In which case, you need to avoid your plants struggling due to wind rock (destabilisation of the plant’s root system whilst it is establishing itself) What are your soil conditions? You may need to be a little more patient than usual as some varieties will take longer to establish themselves as they have to acclimatise to harsher conditions than normal. It is not unusual for some coastal species to suffer from burning of the foliage and in most cases, this is nothing to be concerned about When choosing a coastal plant to create a windbreak, the following come recommended: Griselinia littoralis Griselinia littoralis is a fast growing, large evergreen shrub ideally suited to coastal conditions. It is an excellent hedging plant as it forms a neat and tidy hedge – ideal for creating a windbreak. Griselinia littorlias has light apple-green broadly ovate shaped leaves. Small yellow-green flowers are followed by purple fruits on the female plants where both sexes are grown together. It will grow in free drainage soil in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade too. It is easy to maintain and has an eventual height of 4-8m and spread of 2.5-4m. It can be easily kept in shape, ideal if you like a neat garden. Elaeagnus x ebbingei Elaeagus x ebbingei is a very hardy, salt tolerant evergreen shrub, and very easy to grow. The foliage is dark green with a silvery underside. In September-October, it produces fragrant, creamy flowers. These are followed by orange speckled silver fruit late into the winter. Elaeagnus x ebbingei will tolerate partial shade and dry conditions, although it is best to avoid chalk and wet areas. It can also tolerate sheltered or exposed conditions, making it another ideal consideration for a coastal plant for a windbreak. It has an eventual height of 2.5-4m and spread of 2.5-4m. Quercus ilex (Holm Oak \ Evergreen oak) Quercus ilex is another coastal plant to consider for a windbreak. It can be grown either as a clipped hedge or stand-alone tree. It has black, finely cracked bark and glossy dark green, ovate leaves, with a pale white-grey underside and short hairs. Quercus ilex is very hardy and an excellent choice for coastal positions, as it is able to withstand the salt conditions. It likes a well-drained soil and will cope with being hard pruned. It will grow in either full sun or partial shade. Its eventual height is 12m+ and its width is 8m+.   Once you have decided upon the primary plants for your windbreak, you then need to consider your complimentary planting. Again, depending on how far back from the coast you are, and how effective your windbreak is, you can consider the following: Convulvulus Hebe Lavender Rosemary Euonymous Teucrium fruitcans Cistus Potentilla fruiticosa Agapanthus By adding further shrubs to your garden design, you will be able to create colour, height, ground cover and overall interest. You can also consider some Mediterranean plants – for example Chamaerops humilis or Cordyline australis. Whilst trying to develop a coastal garden can seem rather daunting and challenging, with the right advice and right plants, you will be able to create a garden that will flourish. At Arundel Arboretum, being located on the South coast, we naturally stock a wide range of coastal plants for you to consider. Our knowledgeable, friendly staff are always able to advise you on the most suitable species for your conditions. Please do pop in and we will be very pleased to help you.

Large shrubs play an important role in any garden design and can provide immediate impact and maturity to your design. Large shrubs are very versatile, and there will be one suitable to your conditions.  Whether your soil is wet, dry, sandy, acidic or alkaline, there will be a shrub for you!  At Arundel Arboretum, we have an extensive range of large shrubs suitable for your conditions.  Large shrubs provide the framework for your beds and they provide shelter and food for birds and wildlife.  They will also provide height and shade to your garden. Large shrubs can be evergreen, semi-evergreen or deciduous.  There are many interesting varieties noted for either their flowers (Camellia), berries (Cotoneaster), attractive stem colour (Cornus) and variations in foliage shape and colour. Large climbing plants can also be considered.  You could consider varieties of Clematis or Trachelospermum.  Large climbing plants can provide coverage for a wall or fence and provide the backdrop to a stunning garden design. Here at Arundel Arboretum, we are a leading stockist of large shrubs, and a small taster of suitable large shrubs for your garden include:- Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’ Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’ is a delightful, dense evergreen shrub.  It has radiant dark green leaves, and produces large pink buds that appear in the autumn.  These burst open in the winter to reveal fragrant white flowers, which can last up to six months.  Once the flowers begin to fade, black berries follow which the birds adore.  The berries are a very useful food source for birds throughout the winter months.  Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’ will grow happily in shade or sun, exposed or sheltered positions.  This plant is an ideal choice for difficult positions and once it has established itself, it is fairly drought resistant.  Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’ can be grown in a border as a shrub, shaped and cut into a topiary or trained as a standard.  These can look particularly attractive in pots either side of a doorway or gateway. Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bouquet Rose’ Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bouquet Rose’ is a hardy shrub producing large pink flowers in late summer\early autumn.  The flower heads have a “mophead” appearance, but keep a neat, compact form.  This plant is ideal for your beds and borders, but will be happy planted into a container.  This makes it a very versatile and attractive plant for many parts of your garden.  Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Bouquet Rose’ will grow in sun and semi-shade positions.  The flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies and birds.  The plant should be kept well watered during dry weather and will need protection from heavy frosts.  The intensity of the flower colour will depend upon the pH level of your soil. Acer palmatum Acer palmatum is a slow growing, deciduous Japanese maple that can be grown as a shrub or small tree.  The delicate foliage is small, five-lobed deep green leaves in the spring, which turn a stunning red in the autumn.  Acer palmatum has an overall height of between 6-10m.  It requires well drained soil with an acidic pH.  It can be grown in a semi-shaded position – too much sun will scorch the fragile foliage. We have an extensive range of large shrubs for all seasons, and we would be very happy to assist you with your purchase. Furthermore have a look at what we have on offer in our shrubs section. Please do call in to browse our quality stock – our knowledgeable staff will be only too willing to show you around and advise on the best large shrubs for you. We look forward to welcoming you to Arundel Arboretum.

August can be seen as a quiet month for the garden, but in actual fact there are many jobs that can be undertaken now that will ensure your trees and shrubs will look their best next year. If you’re looking for jobs to keep you busy as the summer season comes to a close, here are some ideas that you can do to prepare your garden for next year: Watering – continue to keep on top of your watering. Whilst we have had some welcome rain, our gardens still need watering, especially if you have planted new trees and shrubs this year. Any plants in pots will continue to need water too. Try to use stored water or “clean” washing up water. If your lavenders have finished flowering, they can be cut back now. This stops them becoming woody and leggy and should ensure you have another good season of flowers next year. Continue to deadhead flowering shrubs. This might encourage a few more flowers for this year, and will ensure fresh growth and blooms for next year too. Evergreen hedges can have a final trim before the cooler temperatures arrive. Wisteria and other climbing shrubs can be pruned back once they have finished flowering. Camellias and rhododendrons – continue to keep well watered (but do not overwater). This should ensure the development of the buds for next year. Weeding! Keep on top of this to ensure they don’t seed. If you are looking to plant trees and shrubs over the winter months, start to plan what you would like and consider whether you want to plant a container tree or whether you would like to plant a bare root or root ball one.  You can continue to feed newly planted trees and shrubs, carefully following the instructions. Weather permitting, you should be able to continue to feed for another 3-4 weeks. Here at Arundel Arboretum, one of the leading garden centres in West Sussex, we will be very happy to help you with any questions about caring for your garden in August. Come down for a visit today!

Many of our clients visit Arundel Arboretum as they are looking to provide instant impact in their garden, our excellent selection of mature plants can do just that. With a wonderful selection of mature plants in stock to choose from you can enhance your garden instantly. Mature plants will provide an impressive statement to your garden design whether you plant one specimen plant or a few.  There is so much choice available today, and there is no longer the necessity to wait for the plant to grow to achieve the look you require.  Mature plants can be planted as a feature statement, to create screenage from a neighbouring building, to provide privacy or even shade.  Mature plants literally transform your garden immediately. Which mature plants do I choose? Primarily our clients are looking to purchase mature plants in order to create screenage to block out other buildings surrounding them.  Depending upon the plant selection, you may need to purchase more than one to create the look you require.  However, one specimen mature plant may be enough to create the desired effect. Evergreen or Deciduous? If you are looking to purchase a mature plant for year-round screenage, then an evergreen plant is the right one to choose.  If you are not concerned about winter screenage or privacy, then a deciduous tree makes an equally good option.  During the winter months, you will be able to enjoy the wonderful structure of a deciduous tree when all the leaves have fallen.  Many have very attractive bark – for example, Prunus serrula or Betula utilis var. jacquemontii.  Deciduous trees have massive benefits to wildlife too. Will I get it into my garden? This is sometimes a consideration that is overlooked!  When visiting a specialist nursery such as Arundel Arboretum, we will always ask about access.  It is a very important factor to consider.  When visiting us, we always encourage our clients to bring along some photographs of their garden so that we can see what you are trying to achieve.  Photographs of any restricted access are always very useful and most welcome. Planting and looking after your mature plants Due to their size and maturity, mature plants will require more maintenance than younger ones.  We would always recommend our planting service to our clients, but if you prefer to plant it yourselves, we will always offer advice on the best methods in order to achieve the best for your plant long term.  Always ensure that the tree or shrub is safely secured with the appropriate stakes and ties for the first few years. Mature plants will naturally take longer to establish themselves as they have a much larger root system to support to feed the head.  Lack of maintenance is often the main cause of a plant’s demise, so maintenance is key.  Watering during dry spells is a must.  A drip system could be considered if you are planning to plant a variety of mature plants.  It is also a good idea to keep your weeds under control; otherwise, they will be competing with your plants for water and nutrients in the soil! We have an excellent selection of mature plants in stock.  If you are planning some new plants for your garden, we highly recommend a visit to us.