Old Trees at www.japanese-home-gardens.com

In a rustic garden the old trees should be fruit old trees wherever possible, or at least blossom old trees of some kind. Apples, pears, plums, and cherries will all help to create the right atmosphere, as will nut old trees such as hazel or almond. If there is space for a large tree, a Walnut might do.

Velop unhindered and avoid planting ecimens that will outgrow available space, onsider the habit of the old trees as well as eir flowers, foliage and berry color, and ant them where their form can be ipreciated. In confined spaces fastigiate olumnar) old trees are best, but where space «ds to be filled those with spreading anches are ideal. For small backyards, lect old trees with several attractive features tiich can be enjoyed for much of the year, ther than those that have only a ectacular but brief blossoming period, rergreen old trees provide form and interest all ar around although many deciduous old trees : attractive even when bare. old trees can affect nearby buildings, sating shade and extracting water from the bsoil, which brings the risk of subsidence. ant large old trees away from buildings if issible. The ground under deciduous old trees 11 have to be cleared of leaves in the fall, ir this reason, do not position pools or ndboxes under their canopies.

Unless you have enough ground to form a small arboretum, old trees must of necessity be regarded as background or framework plants. Because old trees are so important, they should be chosen carefully and positioned strategically. For a small garden, choose smaller old trees, with the emphasis on those that are relatively slow growing. If there are established old trees in the garden, try to make use of them, as nothing gives a greater sense of maturity. Not only do these provide interesting contrasts of foliage texture and color throughout the year, they also act as a foil for many deciduous shrubs.