container design

Hanging Baskets – the Squish Factor

May 13, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 4 Comments Tags: annuals, combinations, container design, foliage

Nurseries are full of hanging baskets at this time of year, seemingly in every color and plant combination - except the one you want, right? How often have you found the perfect basket, wrestled it onto your cart then gone trundling around the nursery yet again trying to find a perfect match? Even if you find it you then have nothing short of army maneuvers trying to get two 3′ wide, super-trailing baskets into the back of your Prius….. Sound familiar?

The solution? Plant your own! You’ll save money and get exactly the colors and plants you want. You can coordinate your plant choices with anything from the trim on your house to the cushions on the patio chairs. Choose wild, zesty colors, an elegant green and white scheme or design with just foliage. It takes a little bit of time but the results are well worth it. Here’s how I do it.

Basket selection

I prefer baskets where I can plant the sides as well as the top to achieve a really full look. That means using a wire frame with sufficiently large gaps between the struts that I can stuff plants in-between. If the spacing is very wide I might need to add a layer of chicken wire first to stop moss falling through.

Lining

Next comes the lining. There are several options here. The traditional method is to use sheet moss soaked in water, then starting at the base push this against the sides of the basket extending to 1″ above the rim. You are aiming for an even cover about 1” thick. This can be time consuming and messy as you have to patch up holes like a jigsaw puzzle as you go but it definitely gives the softer and more natural look which I like.

Pre-shaped liners are an alternative and these can be moss which is attached to a mesh making it easy to work with, or either coir or coco fiber which look like dead moss (i.e. brown)! It’s not my favorite option and is tough on the hands but I know that some folks like it, is more readily available and it lasts for several years.

Stuff fun plants into the basket sides. This red and purple annual is called ‘Tiny Mice’. Can you see why?

Soil mix

Now get the planting mix ready. I combine 80% soil-less potting medium with 20% organic matter; either fine compost or a product such as Gardner & Bloome ‘Blue ribbon potting soil’. For every cubic foot of planting mix I add about 1 tablespoon of a granular slow release balanced fertilizer such as Osmocote.I don’t usually include moisture retention polymers as most of my clients have drip irrigation systems for their baskets so adequate watering is not a problem. However where hand watering is the only option it might be a good idea to add these. Experience leads me to suggest that you use just half the recommended amount, however, as I find they actually hold too much moisture and the soil can become overly saturated. In this situation plants such as coleus can rot.

Place the basket on top of an empty plant pot to raise it up to a good working height and keep it stable. If you have a ‘lazy Susan’ it helps to set this pot/basket combination on top to make turning easier.

The squish factor!

Decide how many tiers of plants you are going to add to the sides. This will depend upon how high the basket is; one or two tiers is typical. Add enough soil to come just underneath where you want the lowest tier of plants to be. Gently make an opening in the lining either by pushing the moss to one side or cutting a hole in the liner. Using 2” sized plants (often called basket stuffers), remove them from their pots and wrap the roots in a little cling film or plastic to make sliding them easier. Gently push the plant roots through the hole, rest them on the soil surface and remove the cling film. Repeat as desired adding more soil to reach the next level, staggering the 2” plants on each tier to vary color and texture and allow for even coverage.

Now you are ready for the top. Start with an upright plant in the center then add other trailing and mounding 4” plants around the edges. If there is room squeeze a few extra 2” plants into this layer too. You’ll probably have to squish things in a bit, moving root balls around to find space for everybody. Aim to have a good thick layer of moss at the rim and finish the soil ½” below this.

Water the basket gently with a fine shower setting on the hose, being sure to completely saturate the sides as well as the top until water drips freely. Remember some of these roots systems are tiny and a long way down!

For clients I try to grow these on in my unheated greenhouse for a week or two before delivering and hanging them, but if the night temperatures are above 50’ then they can be hung outside straight away.

‘Lemon Slice’ million bells and ‘Berry Luscious’ lantana make stunning partners

Maintenance

The baskets will need watering every day unless it has rained heavily, and even twice a day in high summer. Adding a drip irrigation system is the easiest way to accomplish this but otherwise use a hose to saturate sides and top thoroughly. You will be well rewarded with visits from hummingbirds and compliments from neighbors!

How many plants do I need?

For a 16” diameter, 9” deep basket;

18 x 2” plants (3 each of 6 different varieties*),

6 x 4” plants for top layer,

1 x 4” upright plant for the center.

*You will use 6 x 2” plants on each of two side tiers and the final six on the top tier.

Favorite trailers and edgers plants for sun;

Lotus vine, silver falls (Dichondra), purple bell vine (Rhodochiton), million bells (Calibrachoa), verbena, fleabane ‘Profusion’(Erigeron) , trailing geraniums, fan flower (Scaevola), sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas), lantana, bacopa, Alyssum

Favorite upright plants for sun;

Dwarf varieties of New Zealand flax (Phormium) such as Jack Spratt, upright geraniums, Zagreb tickseed (Coreopsis), Gaura

Great combo for shade; ‘Bonfire’ begonia and ‘Midnight Blue’ Torenia

Favorite trailers and edgers for part shade;

Black mondo grass, impatiens, cuphea, purple bell vine (Rhodochiton), Swedish ivy (Plectranthus ciliatus), purple heart (Setcreasea pallida), verbena, begonias, fuchsias, fan flower (Scaevola), wishbone flower (Torenia), sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas), asparagus fern, periwinkle (Vinca), ivy

Favorite upright plants for shade;

Coleus, ferns, taller Heuchera, Croton, orange hair sedge (Carex testacea), upright heliotrope

I avoid plants which need endless deadheading such as marguerite daisies (Argyranthemum) or African daisies (Osteospermum) and use million bells over trailing petunias as they perform better in our unpredictable summers. I also prefer zonal or fancy leafed geraniums rather than Martha geraniums as the latter do not give enough color.

Join in the Foliage Fest! (& giveaway)

Mar 11, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 10 Comments Tags: annuals, books, combinations, conifers, container design, deciduous trees, design, foliage, grasses, Monrovia, perennials, shrubs, trees, water gardens

The past couple of weeks have been a true whirlwind since my book FINE FOLIAGE, co-authored with Christina Salwitz was launched at the 2013 Northwest Flower and Garden Show, Seattle.

My first talk at the show – a demonstration style seminar called ‘Spotlight on Foliage’ was standing room only and by the end of that afternoon the University Bookstore had sold out of our book. Thankfully Christina and I had ordered plenty for ourselves so were able to loan them enough to get them through the rest of the show. Tough problem to have, right?!

Since then the books have been selling nationwide (and thanks to my Mum also in England) with great reviews on both sides of The Pond! Both Christina and I have received lovely emails from total strangers who have purchased Fine Foliage and wanted to say how much they are enjoying it and to thank us for the inspiration we have given them.

So what’s so special about it? Here’s what others are saying;

“Fine Foliage is a visual treat that will inspire you with dazzling combinations for containers and gardens. Karen Chapman and Christina Salwitz explain why each combination works – bringing artistic design within easy reach of all gardeners. A great user-friendly resource.”

–Debra Prinzing, author of The 50 Mile Bouquet and Slow Flowers

Garden lovers, you now have the secret for creating the landscapes of your dreams – the ones you see in magazines and wonder “how do those designers DO THAT?”. Christina Salwitz and Karen Chapman show you how to look beyond the flowers and introduce you to the real stars of the horticultural world – LEAVES! Foliage is more than that green stuff around the flowers, it is what divides a good garden from an incredible one, and now you have a guide for how to use its power!

-Ivette Soler, Garden designer and author of “The Edible Front Yard“

“The photos in this book are both breathtaking and inspiring…” Barb S., Seattle

“I highly recommend this book for all gardeners and garden lovers…” Suzanne K., Redmond

Read our Amazon reviews

As winter transitions to spring we seem to naturally gravitate to the local nurseries and garden centers, filling our carts with all that is fragrant and flowery. Yet a few weeks from now those impulse buys won’t look quite so impressive if you haven’t paid careful attention to using foliage as the backbone of your combinations.

The solution? Take a copy of Fine Foliage to the nursery with you – it will fit nicely into your purse (UK translation = handbag). Being a high quality hardback it will withstand the rigors of many such trips! Use it as a springboard for new ideas, ask the nursery staff to help you find your favorites or use it as a reference against which to test those flowers you are drawn to!

For example the gorgeous purple and deep red pasque flowers (Pulsatilla sp.) that are in bloom right now would look so pretty with a tricolor sage. Or maybe add a froth of lemon thyme to those dwarf daffodils? Back that up with some blue grasses and a dwarf golden conifer and you have the makings of a great container!

ENTER TO WIN A FREE COPY!

What do I win?
One signed copy of Fine Foliage
Where?
On our blog www.fine-foliage.com
When?
Right now!! Drawing will take place at midnight Saturday March 16th PST and the book mailed out first thing Monday.
What do I do to enter?
Head over to www.fine-foliage.com and follow the link to sign up for our blog. It’s that easy! Everyone that is registered will be entered into a random drawing. The winner will be notified by email within 24 hours and the winners name will also be posted on the blog itself.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNER shariwick165@gmail.com! You have seen sent an email – please let us have your mailing address and Fine Foliage will be on its way!

Didn’t win? Never mind;

Signed copies can be ordered here using credit card or PayPal

Also available at bookstores, nurseries and online.

Share the love of gardening with your friends and family. Fine Foliage would make a beautiful gift for any occasion; new home, birthday, anniversary….and Mother’s Day is just around the corner on May 12th.

Both Christina and I are also available to give presentations at your garden clubs, nurseries or other event to celebrate Fine Foliage . You will find us listed on the Great Garden Speakers website; read reviews of our previous talks and get more details of what we offer.

Do tell me which is your favorite combination from the book and share your own ideas for great foliage.

Top 10 Healthy Heuchera

Feb 28, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 30 Comments Tags: container design, cut flowers, disease, foliage, groundcover, infection, perennials, Terra Nova Nurseries

As delicious as a summer dessert ‘ Sugar Berry’ is a sweet treat for any garden

In the gardener’s world there are two mortal enemies – deer and disease. Or at least they are mine – if I ignore my parsnip-munching voles, Amazon-sized mosquitoes and steroidal slugs.

When my show stopping Heuchera (coral bells) were cut down in their prime by rust, a fungal infection, it was almost enough to make me hang up my trowel. Rust causes nasty raised, purple bumps on the undersides of the leaves which spreads rapidly and can quickly destroy the plant. Although not seen in drier parts of the country it is a major problem here in the Pacific Northwest.

Rust can be detected by raised pustules on the undersides of the leaves and sunken areas above. Photo credit; Maryna Sedani, PNW Plant Disease Management Handbook

Having tossed far too many of these pricey treasures into the yard waste (NEVER compost diseased plants) I asked Dan Heims, president of Terra Nova Nurseries, Inc. for some ideas on what I could do to save those that I have and ask about the new disease resistant hybrids his nursery is breeding.

As a breeding company, Terra Nova Nurseries, Inc. is the leading innovator for new Heuchera and Heucherella introductions. It can take seven years of breeding and another three of testing to have a breakthrough but that dedication is what ensures that their plants are strong and healthy.

Mahogany in its summer glory

So what exactly is rust and what can we do to prevent it?

It is a fungal disease that usually travels on the plant itself or is airborne. In our soggy Seattle climate we provide the perfect conditions for it to thrive so the key to control is managing the environment.

Dan’s tips for healthy Heuchera

Water in the early morning so foliage can dry
Use drip irrigation rather than overhead sprinklers
Space plants so as to allow for good air circulation
Do not plant new Heuchera where diseased ones have been grown
Remove diseased Heuchera immediately and dispose of in the yard waste (do not compost)
The organic fungicide ‘Serenade’ may help prevent rust. (My personal experience has been that if you cut a mildly infected plant down hard and spray every two weeks (or as allowed on the label) until it is fully re-grown you have a reasonable chance of success; I may have been too hasty in disposing of a few).

Paris – as elegant as its name

Why are some Heuchera more susceptible than others?

The key word here is genetics or “it’s all the parents fault”. Now I did ask Dan to elaborate and share which species he was focusing on as showing the most promising disease resistant traits. His answer?

“I could tell you, but I’d have to kill you…Nothing personal… ”

Great.

What he was able to tell me was that the breeders noticed that the lighter colored Heuchera were particularly susceptible, so they were selecting for thicker leaves. They were also committed to evaluating potential introductions under multiple conditions over many years and anything that showed signs of rust was eliminated. In other words he wasn’t giving much away but that’s OK, especially when you read about some of these success stories.

Breeder’s top 5 (or 6, or 10)

Spellbound lives up to my expectations with truly captivating foliage year round. Photo and design credit; Le jardinet

Spellbound – you’ve heard me salivate over this beauty before. Shimmery shades of purple and silver on impossibly oversized leaves. Mine looks as magical now as it did in fall and has made a loose mound approx. 18” across. Fabulous in my orange container!

Blondie – this one is on my wish list for sure. Part of the ‘Little Cutie’ series, Blondie is just 8” wide but is a flowering powerhouse pushing out oodles of creamy-yellow spikes. Foliage color is in the caramel family. A good choice for containers

Sugar Berry – from hot raspberry to deepest blackberry, this one is positively delicious. Also part of the Little Cutie series this tops out at 6” tall and 10” wide with short, fat spikes of white flowers

Fireworks – ruffled bronze foliage on a mid-sized plant with plenty of soft colored flowers

Blondie – makes me think of a gingersnap cookie!

Mahogany – this promises to be a good alternative to my beloved ‘Peach Flambé’ which succumbed to both deer AND disease last year! The foliage looks like burnished copper-colored leather and transitions through shades of red and orange as the season progresses. I’d love to see this with some bright lime green

Paris – another one that is high on my wish list, I love the silver veining on this green foliage and those hot pink flowers are just plain FUN. A mid-sized, compact plant at 14” wide.

Other favorites; Obsidian, Sugar Plum, Root Beer, Ebony and Ivory.

All are hardy in zones 4-9, evergreen and do best if allowed to dry slightly between watering. Hummingbirds love them!

Where can we buy them?

They are widely available at both nurseries and online retailers; Terra Nova Nurseries, Inc. has provided these links to help you find your favorites.

Deep chocolaty tones of Mahogany

What can we look forward to in the future?

Terra Nova Nurseries, Inc. is breeding some fabulous new Heucherella (foamy bells) which are rust resistant (yes you did read that correctly; all Heucherella are rust resistant for reasons which they undoubtedly know but will once again put my life in jeopardy if I ask) as well as continuing their Heuchera breeding program selecting plants which are healthy, have great foliage color and are vigorous.

They also have an exciting collection of heat-tolerant Heuchera , seeking out those with H. villosa in their parentage (apparently I was allowed to know that tidbit without death threats). Look for those with Southern sounding names as a clue e.g. Midnight Bayou, Southern Comfort and Georgia Peach.

And finally…

Be sure to check out their website at www.terranovanurseries.com to get more tips and ideas as well as to drool over their luscious photographs.

And of course you are invited to ‘like’ their Facebook page

In the absence of a LOVE button, like will have to do.

My sincere thanks to Dan Heims (aka Mr. Heuchera) and the Terra Nova Breeding Team for finding time to answer my barrage of questions. Dan refers to himself as the ‘man on the road’ – I mainly see him at airports.

All photos courtesy of Terra Nova Nurseries, Inc. except where noted

Skinny Conifers for Tight Spaces

Feb 11, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 12 Comments Tags: conifers, container design, deer, design, foliage, Monrovia

The columnar habit of this Japanese plum yew (front right) does not obstruct entry into this small courtyard.

Narrow side gardens are the reality for many suburban homes but die hard gardeners don’t need to sacrifice height and beauty just because their footprint is small. Look for trees, shrubs and perennials that have a columnar shape without growing too wide. Even in larger gardens there is a need for ‘punctuation’ points and these skinny but interesting conifers might be just the answer (and the perfect excuse to visit the nursery).

‘The huggable ‘Wissel’s Saguaro’ false cypress doesn’t block a path

‘Wissel’s Saguaro’ false cypress (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Wissel’s Saguaro’) is a conifer with attitude! Blue-green ‘arms’ beg for a hug and it certainly deserves a little extra love for the way it adds structure, height, color and living sculpture to the narrowest of spaces. Enjoy a young plant in a container for a few years before transplanting it to a well-drained spot in the garden. In full sun it will grow~ 8′ in 10 years with an ultimate height of 18-20′ but just 2′ wide. Hardy in zones 6-8

‘Blue Arrow’ juniper. Photo credit; Monrovia

‘Blue Arrow’ juniper (Juniperus virginiana ‘Blue Arrow’). The dusky blue shade of this juniper makes it a colorful, evergreen addition to any garden – perfect for narrow screens or as garden accents. Use it where you’d love an Italian cypress but don’t have the climate. It grows to 12-15’ tall and 2’wide (although truthfully I’ve seen specimens a little wider than 3’). Deer resistant and drought tolerant once established, this is hardy in zones 4-9.

‘Empire’ false cypress has a subtle yellow variegation

‘Empire’ false cypress, (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Empire’). A dwarf, columnar conifer with a subtle yellow variegation; a beauty in containers or rock gardens. Typical height is just 4’ tall and 18” wide. Prefers full sun and is hardy in zones 4-9

‘Snow White’ Port Orchard cedar has white spring growth which matures to blue green (Left on photo)

‘Snow White’ Port Orchard cedar (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Snow White’) has a natural teardrop shape with soft blue-green foliage which still retains a whisper of the creamy white spring growth in fall! This species is particularly susceptible to root rot and the fungus Phytophthora if not in well-drained soil so look for those grafted onto disease resistant root stock e.g. Monrovia’s Guardian series. ‘Snow White’ grows to 6’ tall and 18” wide in 10 years, loves full sun and is hardy in zones 6-9

DeGroot’s Spire arborvitae. Photo credit; Longfellow Garden Center

‘DeGroot’s Spire’ arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘DeGroot’s Spire) is an improvement on the typical arborvitae of the ‘landscaper’s special’ variety. The rich dark green foliage takes on a purple cast in winter and has nicely twisted foliage which will tolerate light shearing making it a good hedging plant. It copes with wet soils, will grow in part shade or full sun and grows slowly to 20’ tall and 4’ wide. Cold hardy to zone 3 and happy to zone 8.

Columnar Scotch pine adds a columnar focal point in a small garden

Columnar Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris ‘Fastigiata’) is a narrow form of the beautifully soft and fluffy Scotch pine. The twisted blue green needles make a beautiful backdrop for shades of silver or purple leaved plants. This is hardy in zones 3-7 (possibly zone 2) where it will grow 25-30’ tall but just 6-8’ wide (the species is 25-30’ wide). Part or full sun.

Japanese plum yew looks fabulous in a container

Columnar Japanese plum yew (Cephalotaxus harringtonia ‘Fastigiata’) is one of the few conifers which thrives in part or even full shade. Its dark blue-green needles are longer that yew (Taxus sp.). I use it in shady containers where it slowly grows to about 4’ tall and 18” wide. In the landscape it is more likely to be 6’ tall and up to 4’ wide.. Hardy in zones 6-9

Short, Plump & Juicy – meet the BrazelBerries!

Jan 7, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 10 Comments Tags: berries, container design, edible, foliage, fruit, Monrovia, shrubs

Is your mouth watering yet? 'Raspberry Shortcake' debuts this spring

You’ve heard the saying “good things come in small packages”? Well this collection of pint-sized berry BrazelBerries seem sure to prove the point! I have all three tucked safely inside my vegetable garden (to thwart the deer) and can’t wait to snack on these treats in summer.

'Raspberry Shortcake' will fill out a large container with bowlfuls of delicious fruit

BrazelBerries ‘Raspberry Shortcake’. I like raspberries – a lot, so this really caught my eye. What makes it unique? It’s thornless, doesn’t require staking and forms an attractive mounding plant 2-3’ tall and wide. When was the last time you heard a raspberry plant described as attractive? And just look at that foliage! In Oregon the growers have found that the summer foliage takes on a wild technicolor look with red tints. They’re not sure yet if this will be a universal feature – hope so! This would be perfect in a large patio container where you can snack from the comfort of a chair. The super-sweet, medium sized fruit is borne mid-summer.

More than just a tasty fruit - 'Raspberry Shortcake'

Culture

Full sun. Fruits on new canes. Hardy in zones 5-9

Spring foliage and bloom of 'Peach Sorbet' blueberry - a beautiful shrub even if it never bore fruit!

BrazelBerries ‘Peach Sorbet’. No it’s not a peach tree. This is actually a ‘peach of a blueberry’ and like all blueberries is a true four season star in the garden. This compact, mounding bush starts the year with vibrant new foliage in shades of pinky-peach moving through orange and emerald. White spring flowers are followed by yummy fat fruit. ‘Peach Sorbet’ is evergreen in most climates but the leaves turn to a rich purple as temperatures drop. My kind of foliage! Great patio or hedging plant at just 2’ tall and wide

The stunning winter foliage on 'Peach Sorbet' blueberry. WOW

Culture

Full sun. Acidic soil. Fruits on new canes. Hardy in zones 5-10.

A perfect size for a patio container, 'Jelly Bean' blueberry

BrazelBerries ‘Jelly Bean’. Described by the growers as “a charming little puffball of a blueberry”, how could I resist?! The bush may only be 1-2’ tall and wide but promises to yield a bumper crop of large, flavorful blueberries mid-summer. All blueberries have fabulous foliage and this one is no exception. Brilliant green new growth becomes darker and infused with red as the season progresses. This could be a delightful and delicious alternative to a dwarf boxwood hedge around a herb garden but is also ideal for a pot.

'Jelly Bean' is attractive in spring too.

Culture

Full sun, acidic soil. Fruits on new canes. Hardy in zones 4-8

Monrovia has been selected as one of the exclusive growers for the BrazelBerries so you know these are going to be high quality. They will debut in independent garden centers this spring and are also available by mail order from White Flower Farm now

Join me for a summer berry-fest!

All photo courtesy of BrazelBerries

A New Leaf

Jan 1, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 11 Comments Tags: annuals, container design, deer, foliage, groundcover, Monrovia, perennials, shrubs, Terra Nova Nurseries

How can you resist such temptation? Why even try! Photo credit; Terra Nova Nurseries

Forget the resolutions to eat less and exercise more. Good ideas but hardly enough to get excited about. Now if we’re talking finding the hottest plants for 2013 THEN I get excited, especially if we’re talking great foliage.

Here are some of the best new leafy introductions to watch out for and there’s not a single calorie to worry about.

Yes the flowers are zingy but look at those leaves on 'Sparks Will Fly' begonia! Photo credit; Ball Horticultural

Begonia ‘Sparks will fly’

Now if this beauty had a flavor it would be rich bittersweet chocolate with hints of zesty orange (can you gain weight if you just think about chocolate?) Those lickalicious deep blackish-green leaves set off firecracker flowers perfectly. Imagine this in a bright blue container. Not for the faint of heart but definitely top of my wish list for shady spot this summer. Yum.

Wake up your containers with 'Sunrise Falls' trailing Heucherella. Photo credit; Terra Nova Nurseries

Heucherella ‘Sunrise Falls’

Does the world need any more Heucherella (or Heuchera come to that)? Well apparently we do because propagators like Terra Nova Nurseries keep growing them and we keep buying them ! So what has caught my eye this time? Sunrise Falls. Is that a yawn I hear? Well wake up because this is a trailing variety. I’ve used Redstone Falls and Yellowstone Falls in containers for the last two years and clients love them yet they can languish in the nurseries simply because their star status is unrealized. Plant these at the edge of a container and the large maple shaped leaves will tumble downwards for 2’ or so adding a bright splash of gold to a shady spot. Each leaf has dark red veins and takes on burgundy tints in colder weather. Hardy in zones 4-9

Compact and curly, this new Leucothoe is on my wish list. Photo credit; www.thepottedgarden.co.uk

Leucothoe ‘Curly Red’. (Leucothoe axillaris)

I’ll let you into a secret. The coolest plants don’t even make it into the nursery. Seriously. When deliveries arrive you may notice the conspicuous absence of nursery staff. That isn’t because they all rush out to help the driver unload out of thoughtfulness. Oh no. They all want to see what goodies have just arrived and anything really new and unusual gets snagged before you even know it’s there! How do I know this? I’ve worked in a nursery. And this was why when I saw this new leucothoe in a container I was told they were ‘sold out’. Yeah right. So go and hunt down this one, currently available from Monrovia. The twisted leathery leaves open orange-red and mature to dark green before turning purple-red in fall. Evergreen, deer resistant, great for the garden or pots and white spring flowers. See why they were ‘sold out’? Part sun/part shade and hardy in zones 6-9.

Doubly fabulous - a great new Solomon's seal. Photo credit; Terra Nova Nurseries

Solomon’s seal ‘Double Stuff’ (Polygonatum odoratum)

It can be dangerous driving with a plant geek. Cars can make abrupt turns or screech to a halt at the merest hint of a nursery. Walking isn’t much better. One minute you’re chatting away to your friend and the next you realize you are completely alone. Your companion has disappeared like Alice down the rabbit hole but in this case they are likely to be found on hands and knees peering at something leafy. Beware shady encounters with Double Stuff – it will grab your attention like a giant bar of Toblerone. At 2′ tall at least you can stay standing up to appreciate this fabulous new foliage plant. Its cousin – the regular variegated Solomon’s seal, pales in comparison with this bold form. Arching red stems hold pairs of green and white variegated leaves joined in spring by dangling white bells. This perennial thrives in moist woodland locations where it will slowly spread by rhizomes. Hardy in zones 3-8

Check out the blog at www.fine-foliage.com

If you’d like to join me in a healthy diet of low calorie leaves this year I have good news for you. Starting today you can enjoy a new blog; Fine Foliage! Yes this is the companion blog to my new book, coauthored with Christina Salwitz. Consider it an appetizer. We’ll post a new recipe each week to inspire you to put foliage together in new ways. Tempted?

Meet you at the buffet table; www.fine-foliage.com

The Winter Garden – a berry bounty

Nov 27, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 6 Comments Tags: berries, birds, container design, design, foliage, grasses, perennials, shrubs, wildlife, winter

Big fat clusters of berries adorn the branches of Parney cotoneaster - a favorite February treat for robins

A winter garden doesn’t just ‘happen’, it takes planning. Most of us visit nurseries earlier in the year when we are seduced into buying ephemeral spring beauties, colorful summer perennials and fall foliage. It takes serious restraint to look beyond those and seek plants that offer great bark, interesting silhouettes, winter flowers and bright berries.

As I strolled around our garden recently on a bright but chilly day I was pleasantly surprised to discover I had in fact put into practice what I encourage others to do! In every part of the garden from the woodland to wilder open spaces there were interesting vignettes with clusters of juicy berries adding seasonal decoration.

Come and walk around the garden with me and I’ll show you a few which are adding jewel like color to our winter garden.

Parney cotoneaster can become a large shrub - give it room to spread

Parney cotoneaster (Cotoneaster lacteus) is a fabulous evergreen shrub for full sun or partial shade. (It will need partial shade in hotter climates). Its long arching branches are dripping with clusters of vivid red fruit- although they would be a little more heavily laden if the deer hadn’t nibbled some of the spring flowers… Come February they will attract flocks of robins to feast on the bounty. The foliage itself is dark green with felted, silvery undersides which catches the light when branches are brushed by a breeze. Give this room to spread to 10’ tall and 8’ wide to enjoy its full beauty although it can be pruned to keep smaller. Zones 6-10b

A PNW native, red chokeberry makes a dazzling fall and winter display with vibrant foliage and red berries

Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia). When we purchased this property in late October 2009 this 6’ tall native shrub was displaying its fiery crimson foliage, almost hiding the red berries. It is planted in partial shade where it is happily spreading by suckers to form a thicket arching over the stream. At this time of year when seen from the house it is framed by an archway of golden foliage from the pear trees. Chokeberry gets its name from the observation that birds avoid this bitter fruit, which suits me fine as I get to enjoy the winter color! Plant it in constantly moist or wet soil in sun or partial shade where it has room to spread, although it is not difficult to remove unwanted canes. It does have somewhat of an unkempt habit so I would recommend this as a background shrub or in a transitional space between the garden and wilder lands beyond – but be sure to site it where you can see it during the winter.

'Eichholz' cotoneaster has stiff woody stems and evergreen foliage - masses of berries are a bonus

Eichholz cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri ‘Eichholz’). Our stream is fed by three seasonal water sources – a natural aquifer which bubbles up from the stream bed, a neighboring seasonal pond and a pipe which drains water from an area of our garden. This pipe is at the bottom of a 4’ deep French drain so that as much water as possible percolates down and leaches into the surrounding soil – what reaches the pipe is in excess of that saturation point. I needed something to hide the pipe at the head of the stream and chose this evergreen shrub whose stiff woody branches will spread laterally to form an 8’ wide weed suppressing groundcover. At this time of year it is a mass of scarlet berries which add another layer of interest. This likes moisture retentive but well-drained soil in full sun and is hardy in zones 5-8

Chartreuse foliage of this snowberry is eye catching from spring to late fall and makes a great contrast to the hot pink berries

I can never resist something new especially if it has fabulous foliage, which is why ‘Blade of Sun’ snowberry (Symphoricarpos chenaultii ‘Blade of Sun’) leapt into my arms on a summer visit to a nursery! Low spreading branches of chartreuse foliage have been a wonderful addition to our woodland garden and it has been remarkably tolerant of abuse. Although the stream bank where I planted it does not completely dry out, I only watered it two or three times between July and October and it has been fine. It promises to have lots of pink/purple berries in winter and although there are only a scattered few this year I’m optimistic that next year will be more abundant. This is a deciduous shrub yet the foliage is still persisting even after several frosts. It prefers dappled shade where it will grow to 12-18” tall and 2’ wide. Zones 4-9

As leaves fall from barberries the twiggy structure and elongated berries are revealed

There are several other berry bearing perennials and shrubs in our garden – ‘Red Beauty’ holly (Ilex x ‘Rutzan’), honeysuckle, Pernettya (Pernettya mucronata), barberries (Berberis cv), wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’), and ‘Coral Beauty ‘ cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri) – enough for both the wildlife and ourselves to enjoy. The latter three are fabulous additions to container gardens also.

Others shrubs you might enjoy;

Beautyberry (Callicarpa sp) – purple

Snowberry (Symphoricarpos sp.) – white or pink

Other hollies (Ilex sp) – red, orange or yellow

Firethorn (Pyracantha sp.) – red, orange or yellow

Viburnum species – red, black or blue

Heavenly bamboo (Nandina domestica)

The Winter Garden – beautiful bark

Nov 20, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 13 Comments Tags: bark, container design, deciduous trees, design, shrubs, winter

'Lions head' maple is best known for its tufty foliage reminiscent of a lions mane but the smooth olive green bark is equally beautiful

As leaves fall from the trees it is tempting to consider them merely naked statues in the landscape until they are clothed once again in foliage. It is also tempting to stay inside by the fire rather than explore the garden! Yet the texture and color of bark and stems can add significant interest to the landscape at this time of year. Careful placement will allow you to enjoy them from your armchair but can also be good motivation to find your boots and scarf to take a closer look. It’s amazing how even a brief stroll around the garden can lift the spirits.

Here are some of my favorite trees and shrubs that exhibit interesting bark for both the landscape and containers.

Look for a multi-trunked river birch specimen to make the most of the striking bark

River birch (Betula nigra), often multi stemmed, has shaggy bark which peels off in papery curls, revealing the salmon beneath.‘Heritage’ is one of the best full size cultivars. Although it does not need wet soil it copes well with it, making it a good choice for my garden! We have planted a group of three in a low spot which fills with water every winter. For smaller gardens the cultivar ‘Little Fox’ (syn. ‘Little King’) may be a better option, growing to 12-15’ rather than towering to 40’ like the species. Full sun or light shade. Hardy in zones 4-9

The muted colors of Stewartia resemble an elegant patchwork quilt

The vivid lightning bolt patterns in shades of grey, orange and red sets the exfoliating bark of Japanese stewartia (Stewartia pseudocamellia) apart. This special tree has many virtues – it is relatively pest and disease free, has exquisite white camellia-like blossoms in mid-summer when few other trees are in flower, and greets autumn with shades of red and purple. A gorgeous specimen tree growing to 40’ tall and 20’ wide. Does best with some afternoon shade. Zones 5-8

Everyone who has a paperbark maple quickly declares it a favorite

A recent addition to our garden has been the paperbark maple (Acer griseum). The striking cinnamon colored peeling bark is a standout in the winter landscape, especially emerging from a blanket of snow. At just 18’ tall and 15’ wide it is suitable for smaller landscapes where its fresh green foliage can be enjoyed in spring and summer before turning to vivid sunset shades in fall. It copes well with sandy or clay soil, full sun or dappled shade and is hardy in zones 4-8.

As the last few leaves fall to the ground the colorful stems of 'Coppertina' ninebark become visible

I love ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius cultivars) almost as much as our deer! With foliage in shades of green, gold, copper or deep burgundy and sizes ranging from 4’ to 10’ I can enjoy many of these deciduous shrubs in containers or the border.

The larger cultivars such as ‘Diablo’ and ‘Coppertina’ can be left to grow freely or cut down and thinned out to keep to a smaller size. They are remarkably adaptable, coping well with moist conditions in either full sun or partial shade. Clusters of white spring flowers are followed by glossy red berries and fall color ranges from rich mahogany (‘Diablo’ and ‘Little Devil’) to orange (Dart’s Gold). There are therefore plenty of reasons to use them in your garden, but they have another great attribute – the outer brown bark of these multi-trunked shrubs peels away to reveal strips of creamy white beneath.

Include the compact ‘Little Devil’ in a container year round and you can enjoy these colorful branches throughout the winter. In the landscape larger specimens can be best appreciated if they are fronted by herbaceous perennials so that their winter glory is revealed when the perennials die down. Zones 3-8

Bright green bark with corky bumps! The 'Arakawa' Japanese maple has four season interest

Japanese maples are well known for their fall color but many also have striking bark, the coral bark maple (Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’) being perhaps the best known. Two others I enjoy in my own garden are the ‘Lions head’ maple (Acer shishigashira) with its smooth olive green bark, so beautiful against the yellow and orange fall foliage and a welcome addition to my woodland garden. I also have ‘Arakawa’ (Acer palmatum ‘Arakawa’) which means ’rough bark’ – an unusual corky appearance which presents a new texture.

Despite deer and flooding our weeping willow is thriving and brings great color to the winter landscape

The first tree I planted in this garden was a golden niobe willow (Salix alba ‘Tristis’). I was still coming to terms with the unwelcome surprise that our new garden was a 5 acre lake in winter and wondering how on earth I could realize my dream of a beautiful garden. Sheer stubbornness dictated that this was going to be a case of ‘right plant, right place’ so I looked for a tree that could cope with several inches of standing water for most of the winter. Not only that but it had to deal with saturated soil for most of spring before it turned into concrete each summer. Amazingly this weeping willow has come through and is doing great. Actually it is somewhat ‘poodled’ thanks to our deer who eat everything they can reach giving it a ridiculous haircut that looks like a monks tonsure. If you can get over the somewhat truncated ‘weeping’ part then you will appreciate the bright yellow stems and bark in the winter which contrast well against the dark evergreen backdrop.

Others trees and shrubs with great bark;

Shrub dogwoods (red, yellow or multi-colored stems)

‘Little Gem’ vine maple (dark red)

‘Fine Line’ buckthorn (brown with tiny white spots)

Snake bark maple (green with snakeskin markings)

Paperbark cherry (glossy mahogany)

What trees and shrubs do you have in your garden with interesting bark and branches?

Helleborus Gold Collection® – the best of the best

Nov 14, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 8 Comments Tags: combinations, container design, deer, design, fall, foliage, perennials, Skagit Gardens

The magical colors of Merlin. Photo credit; Skagit Gardens

As the last of the colorful leaves fall from the trees and blue skies turn gray – especially here in Seattle, I find myself yearning for color. Spring is many months away – I need something NOW and the new Lenten roses (Helleborus) fill that gap beautifully.

Helleborus Gold Collection® grown by Skagit Gardens has revolutionized the hellebore world. Blooming at a younger age than older hybrids and offering an unbelievably long bloom time these really do earn their gold star status. Another breakthrough is that each of the large flowers faces outwards so that you can appreciate the beauty without getting on your hands and knees! They are also fuss free, deer resistant, evergreen and shade tolerant. What more can you ask? Here are three personal favorites.

Plant 'Pink Frost' where the light can stream through from behind to really appreciate its delicate beauty

Top of the list has to be Pink Frost (Helleborus x ballardiae Gold Collection® Pink Frost). This award winning variety was introduced about three years ago and I absolutely love it. I use this massed in the landscape as well as in shade containers where they bloom from November to March. (Even though Skagit says these bloom mid-January onwards I have found them to be covered in fat pink buds held high on their red stems in early November with flowering starting shortly thereafter). At any one time the silvery green foliage is adorned with flowers in shades of pink, burgundy and deep red. Clumps spread nicely to form 2’ wide mounds.

Foliage and flowers are equally beautiful on Merlin. Photo credit; Skagit Gardens

The new kid on the hellebore block is Merlin (Helleborus x ballardiae Gold Collection® Merlin). I met this magical perennial recently at the Garden Writer’s Association symposium in Tucson and was struck by the outward facing blooms which opened pale pink, transitioning through rose before maturing to a rich cranberry. The foliage and stems are much darker than those of ‘Pink Frost’ and are truly spectacular. This would be worth growing as a foliage plant even if it never flowered! A little smaller than ‘Pink Frost’, this beauty grows about 15” wide.

Cinnamon Snow will add sparkle to the shade garden. Photo credit; Skagit Gardens

Cinnamon Snow (Helleborus x ballardiae Gold Collection® Cinnamon Snow) is one of the earliest to bloom which makes it a great addition when I am replanting containers in fall. Pink buds open creamy white, each petal brushed lightly with shades of rose and warm cinnamon. This delicious confection reminds me of ‘grown up’ ice cream – the sort you only buy as a treat when the children aren’t at home! The foliage is a dark green; a perfect backdrop that allows the flowers to really sparkle. This robust hellebore grows to 2’ wide and blooms from December – February according to the grower but once again I have found these to be in bud as early as late October.

How to grow

Rich, moisture retentive soil
Part or full shade (bloom best in morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled shade all day)
Mulch in summer to retain moisture
Trim off older leaves in spring to freshen it up.

Cinnamon Snow works equally well in containers and the landscape. Photo credit; Skagit Gardens

Companion ideas

Landscape – Mass at the base of a coral bark maple (Acer p. ‘Sango Kaku) to enhance the winter interest. The Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’) could then be added to form bright waterfalls of gold from spring-fall, contrasting beautifully with the hellebore foliage

Containers – partner with pink hued coral bells (Heuchera) such as ‘Georgia Peach’ or ‘Berry Smoothie’ to repeat the pink tones and perhaps a green and white variegated grass to add finer texture. In this container a burgundy Cordyline and evergreen fern have been used as companions.

Which is your favorite hellebore? Plant all three and you’ll have color from now until March!

Hot Colors for Cold Days

Nov 4, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 9 Comments Tags: annuals, bulbs, combinations, container design, deciduous trees, fall, foliage, perennials, spring

I have a fabulous orange container. It’s not a color I would ordinarily have chosen for our home but it was perfect for a magazine photo shoot we did this summer and I had been really looking forward to replanting it for fall and winter knowing that I would have fun playing off its exhibitionist personality!

Earlier this year I purchased a beautiful dwarf vine maple (Acer circinatum ‘Little Gem’). I knew this was the perfect focal point for my design since it had been clothed in fiery shades of red, orange and gold since August – a great way to emphasize the sassy container color. Even when the leaves eventually fall the vibrant red branches will be striking.

The difference in the light reflective qualities of these two leaf surfaces make the partnership all the more striking. 'Ruby Glow' spurge with 'Spellbound' coral bells.

You can’t be bashful with orange and I knew I needed bold companions to really make a statement. ‘Spellbound’ coral bells (Heuchera hybrid) has had everyone talking this year. This is no ordinary purple. Rather its oversized ruffled leaves have a silvery sheen on top and a delicious berry colored reverse. Partnering this with the deep purple ‘Ruby Glow’ spurge (Euphorbia amygdaloides) created a dramatic yet monochromatic combination.

'Wickwar Flame' heather adds a warm note before changing to green in spring

With the bones established it was time to add accents. I wanted to play off the orange some more so selected the spiky grass-like ‘Goldfinger’ New Zealand iris (Libertia ixioides) and the richly colored ‘Wickwar Flame’ heather (Calluna vulgaris), both easy container plants in full sun.

Add a little sparkle with 'Wojo's Jem' periwinkle

So as not to get too hung up on a strictly orange and purple color scheme I added a lighter note with brightly variegated ‘Wojo’s Jem’ periwinkle (Vinca maculata). This trails over the edge of the container together with golden rosemary.

All these foliage plants are winter hardy and evergreen here in the Seattle area (zones 6b-8). No flowers were really needed but I couldn’t resist adding a couple of deep ruby-red pansies to draw attention to the tips and stems of the spurge. (The pansies were rather camera shy when this photo was taken due to several days of torrential rain)!

The glowing foliage of the 'Little Gem' vine maple pick sup on the color of the container and forms a great backdrop for the sultry spurge

The beauty of this design is that it will evolve with the seasons yet is a year round planting. In spring the pansies will be in full bloom and the spurge will explode with chartreuse bracts. Now hidden from view, spring bulbs will push through the foliage to add another layer of interest and the tree will have its new flush of bright green, pleated leaves. I’ll try to remember to post photos of its spring fashion show.

Summer will only need the two pansies replaced with annuals giving it a fresh new look for just a few dollars.

Sometimes we need an unexpected challenge to spark our creativity.

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