The factors that most influence the ways in which a plant develops in a garden are the plant’s hardiness, and the site and the aspect of the garden – that is, the amount of shade and the possibility of physical damage by wind if no support is provided.
If the roots are prevented from growing by compacted ground or by dryness or waterlogging, they will fail to penetrate their immediate boundaries, and, in turn, the plant itself will fail to grow and may ultimately die.
Every plant needs to obtain a cocktail of nutrients from the soil. In many cases there are only very small amounts of each nutrient in any given area of soil, and even when the gardener adds extra fertilizer, the plant has to seek out these nutrients from a very large area.
It is essential that the soil is broken up to enable the plant’s roots to pass easily through it. Before planting, therefore, use a garden fork and spade to dig the whole area to a depth of 50ern (20in). although when you do this, you must make sure that the top 25cm (loin) or so of topsoil is always kept on top of the subsoil.
For a single plant dig a hole lm (about 3ft) across, first removing the topsoil and, if necessary, turf to a depth of 25cm (10in) and storing this on a board alongside the hole. Then the lower 25cm (loin) – more if you can – should be dug over and a good quantity of organic material added. Add some more organic material to the removed topsoil before it is returned to the planting hole.
Take the heights, spreads and the colours of foliage and flowers inte account and group and position the plants according to their expected performance in the garden. The picture will slowly emerge, and you will be able to add the finishing touches, allowing each plant and its companions to have their own spaces. As a reminder, you may wish to make a note on the plan of details of cultivation, particularly pruning, to help you while the plants mature.
