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May 18, 2011  |  trees and shrubs
dwarf conifer

Miniature and dwarf conifers allow your creativity to shine... they are the perfect size to accent a fairy or gnome garden, the weather well in trough planters, can be used for bonsai, and are ideal in rock garden formations. Miniature conifers grow one inch or less per year, and dwarf conifers one to six inches. With a variety of sizes, textures and evergreen colors, you can create a mini landscape that will last for years. For growing tips

Most dwarf and miniature conifers like to be slightly mounded or on a hill. This is to assure drainage from the roots, especially with heavy rains. Once established by keeping moist for first growth year, your plants will only need occasional irrigation in years to come. As you take the plant out of its container to place in your prepared beds, gently squeeze the artificial soil. Plant in top soil amended with compost or Complete Planting Mix and fine chipped rock (chicken grits) for drainage. Plant to the same soil line as in the pot and firm into ground with your hand. Water the plant in and surround with a light mulch to cover the bare soil. Miniature and dwarf conifers do not need the same amount of fertilizer as most large growing conifers. We like to recommend ½ of the amount you are now using on other plants. Our recommendation for conifers is a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10.