Customer Gardening Questions Answered
Q: I’m looking to plant a shrub in a container for patio privacy from neighbours. I was wondering if the Hicks Yew grows well In containers? It would be in part shade.
A: Hicks Yews can grow quite well in a container. Remember roots grow out sideways so the wider the pot the happier the plant. Even better, get a pot wide enough not only for the Yew to anchor in but you can also add groundcover or seasonal colour to give your container colour and interest.
Q: Would camellias do well under some pine trees?
A: Camellias grow well in a slightly acidic soil, which is what you have under the pine trees, however they do enjoy a fertile soil with available moisture as their roots are not particularly vigorous enough to compete with tree roots. If you can provide moisture, fertilizer, water and a good planting area and somehow keep the pine roots from invading the camellia growing area then they would be quite happy.
Q: Hello! I was hoping to pick your brain about eucalyptus...do you carry any plants or seeds? What chance to I stand as a novice gardener to successfully grow some this year (by September). I'm inquiring if I can grow my own wedding decor ;)
A: We do carry many different types of Eucalyptus and there are some that you can grow from seed like the Lemon Eucalyptus however they are quite small from seed and take a couple of years to get established. As a novice gardener you could absolutely grow some small seedlings as gifts. You could also grow a smaller Eucalyptus plant for a single bouquet or two. If you need larger amounts for décor we have some wonderful local flower growers in our area!
Q: I just moved and I have a very wet backyard and I’m thinking of planting bee balm and a small red Maple tree that won’t grow too high. Do you guys carry that kind of thing? More for the spring but I thought I would inquire now.
A: We do have a fantastic selection of Japanese Maples that are smaller in stature and some wonderful new and old favourite varieties of Bee Balm (Monarda). The first thing you will need to address is your drainage. Note where the water sits and make a plan to correct the drainage. If this is not an option you can try building raised beds. I also have a higher water table and I have all of my gardens in raised beds. Another option is to plant in containers and both Bee Balm and Japanese Maples can be grown in containers quite handily!