Landscape & Urban Design Issue 53 2022 | Page 8

GARDEN DESIGN

PROBLEM SOLVING PLANTS

Many recent plant breeding innovations are as a result of wanting to produce a plant that solves a particular problem .
At Provender Nurseries we keep our ear to the ground and listen to what issues the industry and our customers have on a regular basis . As a result , we are tuned in to what the market has to offer and new innovations in problem solving plant introductions .
Of note are the following problemsolving plants we feel are worth a mention .
Easydendron , previously Inkarho Rhododendron is the Rhododendron you can plant anywhere . The secret to Easydendron Rhododendrons ’ success lies underground in the root system . Popular hardy hybrids and Yakushima Rhododendrons are grafted onto lime tolerant ( Easydendron ) rootstocks resulting in a Rhododendron that will tolerate all soils , even heavy clay .
This innovation in Rhododendron breeding allows a wide choice of hardy , attractive coloured hybrids to be planted in otherwise once prohibited places now available to the trade . This inspirational idea originates from nurserymen in Germany who have taken 20 years of research to come up with a rootstock with new features .
Another worthy mention is Ilex crenata Luxus . The new Luxus series combines the best of both worlds with the best characteristics of Buxus and Ilex crenata all in one plant .
Ilex crenata Luxus has looks , strong growth , compact growth habit , requires minimal maintenance , the dark green glossy leaves hold their colour all year round and most importantly Ilex crenata Luxus is disease resistant .
It is an ideal choice for formal gardens , low hedges and topiary reaching an eventual height of 60cm in total if left unpruned . Ilex crenata Luxus is a male plant resulting in no berries after flowering .
Excellent for use in large commercial plantings , mass planting and for use in domestic gardens , balconies , patios and pots . Tolerant of pollution too , ideal for urban planting and is the perfect replacement for Box plants . Ilex crenata Luxus is disease resistant to Buxus Blight and Box Caterpillar Moth .
Both plant options and more problem-solving plants are available at Provender Nurseries all year round . Provender Nurseries are here to help on any projects you may have in the pipeline .
www . provendernurseries . co . uk
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