Shrubs and trees don’t get too big. Just as we were genetically capable of reaching a certain height, so are trees and shrubs. They each have expected ultimate sizes. When deciding to replace an "overgrown" shrub or extend landscape beds, you should have an idea on what you are trying to achieve before you run off to the garden center. When you come to Highland Gardens at this time of year, (I know you aren’t shopping any where else!), you will be greeted with a huge selection of shrubs and trees. Wandering through them all is a favorite of many gardeners. Circling aimlessly because you don’t know what you want might not end up being one of your favorite things to do.

Before you set off to HG, really look at the area. A shrub or tree that got how big would be perfect? This awareness will keep you from having to trim the shrub or cut back the tree some day because it got ‘too big". If you only want the shrub to get 3 feet tall and wide, then choose one that does just that. Do not, on the other hand, pick something because it is cute, and tell your self you can always prune it if it gets "too big". If deciding on a tree, look up. Are there power lines that the tree could grow in to some day? At what height? How close will it be to the house? Any other obstructions?

After the size requirement becomes forefront in your thoughts, the next awareness to a greener thumb is cultural. Where will this plant be planted? Is it very sunny? Shady? I am continually amazed by the number of people who have no idea how the sun moves across their properties. The conversations sound like this: "Hello, can I help you find something?" (Friendly HG employee...) "Yes, I want a shrub that doesn’t get too big." (New gardener.) "Well, how big would you like it to get?" "Not tooo big." "Oh." "Will it be planted in sun or shade?" "It will be in the front of the house."

Greener thumbs turn greener because of awareness and information on the plants. If you want a shrub that ultimately gets 4x4', will grow in ½ day sun (3-8pm), in a dryish spot due to a large tree, that hopefully is evergreen and flowers, you will find a shrub that does just that after a bit of hunting around. If you are looking for a shrub that doesn’t get "too big" for the front of the house, you might get lucky, or you might find yourself spending Saturday afternoons trimming back that bush that was so cute when you bought it so you can find your front door.

Shrubs and trees don’t get too big. Plan wisely. Get that green thumb! :)

Happy Planting! ~Erica