Mid January, and Aberdeen still free of snow. Mind you travel a few miles inland and it’s a very different story, truly the Winter landscape which southerners expect in this part of the country.
My son in laws mum contacted us today from the Manchester area. A Camellia Donation in her garden is already showing colour in bud, also snowdrops in bloom since Christmas. A clear indication of the milder conditions of the south.
one shrub which at this time of year comes in to its own and is fully hardy in our part of the world is Cornus (Dogwood). Grown for their showy bracts and colourful Autumn foliage, but most of all for their brightly coloured winter shoots. Great in the mixed border, or as a waterside plant.
Dont 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. This method of care will give best results. A variety of Sibirica with variegated leaves is also available.
Position – Full sun
Hardiness – Fully hardy
Height – Reaching 5/6 ft when pruned annually
© 2008 – 2011, Alistair. All rights reserved.
