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DECIDUOUS SHRUBS FOR CHICAGOLAND |
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| The varied textures and colorful tones of shrubs provide gardens with
an interesting appeal. These small, leafy trees are important additions for a landscape's
year-round vitality. They fill in open or unworkable spaces with cheerful splashes of
color after the growing season has ended. Shrubs sustain a garden's interest through all
the seasons. Since shrubs will remain in a site for many years, thought should be given to the site's preparation. The best time for planting deciduous shrubs is late April through September. Thoroughly mix the bed to a depth of two feet with well-rotted manure and leaf mould. Ensure there is plenty of space to allow for free and full development of shrub plants. To encourage plants to take root, it is best to choose young plants. Dig a wide hole to allow the plant's roots to spread horizontally. The plants should be planted at a depth even with the container in which they were bought. This will be indicated by the soil mark visible on the plant's stem. Spread the roots out horizontally and fill the hole. Thoroughly soak the new bed with water and a root stimulator such as QuickGreen. Adequately water shrubs to promote health and longevity. Shrubs that develop in moist soil conditions are less prone to pests and diseases, and maintain healthier root systems over time. Chronically dry soil conditions will damage a shrub's small root system, diminishing the plants' capacity to absorb water. Check that shrubs are receiving appropriate amounts of water by inserting a metal rod into the surrounding soil. Soil that is in need of water will resist penetration of the rod. Remember that moist surface soil does not necessarily mean a shrub's root system is sufficiently watered. The root ball in particular may dry out in as little as one or two days. Since the root ball is the source of most of the plant's moisture, ensure that it is kept moist. To do this, place a hose at the plant's base, allowing it to leak slowly for five to 10 minutes. The time for pruning depends upon the season of flowering. Plants that flower in summer or early autumn may be pruned from October to February. Plants with flowers born in late winter or spring may be pruned in late spring or early summer, to give plants ample time to form and ripen new wood before the cooler weather sets in. Prune by cutting back shoots and removing seed heads of plants such as lilacs and rhododendrons. This will maintain a healthy blooming habit, as well as a tidy and shapely appearance for shrub plants. Certain deciduous shrubs will do better in the Chicagoland area, depending upon soil and temperature conditions. For a list of varieties which are most appropriate for this area, consult the "Full Sun Deciduous Shrubs For Chicagoland" and "Shrubs for Shady and Moist Areas" information sheets. |
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| Pasquesi Home and Gardens is Chicagoland's premier resource for gardeners wanting to create a perfect atmosphere. We have a vast selection of plants, many of them rare and unusual. Our qualified, professional staff is ever-willing to share their knowledge with customers needing advice. Pasquesi Home and Gardens is a complete resource for gardening, home and pet supplies. There are hundreds of beautiful accents for the home and out-of-doors, and Pasquesi Home and Gardens has an unrivaled collection of containers for indoors and outdoors in many different styles, materials and shapes. Both stores carry a wide range of quality garden tools and outdoor furniture. |
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