Gardeners of my generation with a fair bit of experience under the belt usually instantly recognise the better known plants, shrubs and trees which many of us have in the garden.
However there are a lot out there who are just getting in to gardening. How often do you spot a plant in someone’s garden and think I must have that, problem is if you do not know what the plant is, the task is almost impossible.
Well, yes it does take quite a long time to get enough information together to make you feel confident in your new hobby. Read as much about the subject as time will allow, and that plant that took your fancy, next time you see the gardener if you happen to be passing by, go up and ask what it is. We gardeners are generally approachable people who just love others to show interest.
Well anyway here is one shrub that at this time of year is just starting to come in to its own. Cornus (Dogwood) grown for their showy bracts, colourful Autumn foliage, but most of all for their brightly coloured winter shoots. Great in the mixed border, or as a waterside plant.
Cornus Alba Sibirica, grows to around six feet tall, has red Autumn leaves, small white flowers in early summer, and the stems in winter are a bright crimson. Dogwood like a moist position in full sun to get the best colour from the stems. Don’t prune the first year this will allow your shrub to establish, thereafter cut back hard each April to just about three inches from ground level.
© 2006 – 2008, Alistair. All rights reserved.
