Few other trees offer such interesting winter features as the snake-bark maples, but the autumn foliage colours should not be overlooked either, as they can compete with those of an of the better known stars of autumn. These acers must be planted in the right soil if later problems are to be avoided.
Surely no more unique setting could be devised for this magnificient genus than the rolling fells and quiet waters of the lake district. As if aware of this magnolias seem to flourish in the warm moist climate found there as I have never seen them do elsewhere. A deep, humus-rich yet free-draining soil with adequate moisture suits nearly all the species, but they do make an effort to grow on most soils.
I have a warm regard for plants which grow easily, flower profusely, and yet can be bounds without resorting to extreme measures. Kerria japonica will send out long arching branches up to 6 ft. in height, or sometimes 8 ft. when given a sheltered place. Whether the soil is heavy acid clay, or shallow well-drained chalk they can be relied upon to spread a creditable - mantle of yellow over green polished branches.
Whatever the type of pot, it is usually better to place it in a more decorative outer pot cover to improve the general appearance.
Of the so-called Japanese Cherries I can never have a surfeit. Amanogawa, the ‘poplar’ of the race, has a military erectness so useful in the smaller garden. The pink flowers which wreathe the branches are scented. Ichiyo opens shell-pink flowers later than most. Kanzan, majestic in the profusion of shell-pink full double flowers, is the most widely planted of all cherries.
Viburnums must surely qualify to rank with roses, forsythia, and the other aristocrats, because they include some of the most attractive shrubs one could possibly desire for winter and spring flowering. In almost every respect the trusses are beautifully fragrant. Soil type does not seem to matter. tbo much provided there is moderate fertility and no waterlogging.
