If you dream about tropical vines with incredible flowers in shades of pink, white or red, you must be dreaming about Mandevilla! Considered a 'hot plant' for summer gardens, Mandevilla has become increasingly popular in pots and planters. Think vertical when you plant Mandevilla; it loves to twine and twirl as it grows. A wonderful tropical plant; Mandevilla will truly enjoy the hot weather that's just around the corner! How to grow: full sun for best flowering; container or potting soil that is moist, yet well drained. Fertilize with Jack's Blossom Booster according to label directions. Use: on trellises, obelisks, mailbox posts, fences, gazebos.
Japanese maple, Acer palmatum, is a highly desirable signature plant in the landscape. Native to Japan, they are adored and prized (even collected!) for their beautiful foliar colors - spring through fall. This versatile plant can be used as a specimen in borders or in suitable containers. Locate them where they can be enjoyed and appreciated for their interesting foliage and outstanding colors.
Hardiness - Cultivars are reliably hardy to zone 6, some to zone 5. We are considered zone 7 on the North Shore of Long Island. (The lower the zone number, the colder the winter low temperatures.)
Leaf color - Depends on the cultivar and time of year. New growth can be shades of green with white or pink variegation; or crimson, red, bronze, purple. Fall color includes: scarlet, red, bronze, yellow, crimson, etc.
Growth habit and shape - Depends on the cultivar selected; unusual branch twists and formations are highly desirable with some cultivars. Generally considered a small tree in the landscape, but height and width are variety-dependent. Ask when you buy.
Pruning - Rarely are Japanese maples and their cultivars pruned. Only selective pruning would be done to maintain and accent unique form and shape.
Care - Clay soils (heavy soils that are typically found on the North Shore) should be amended with organic matter - compost or composted manure prior to planting to improve poor drainage. Apply an inch of water per week; remember to factor in any rainfall. Then, allow the soil to begin to dry slightly between waterings. Shallow-rooted, Japanese maples prefer a light covering (1-2") of an organic mulch to protect the roots. Do not mulch around the trunk of the plant.
Cultivars - We have many favorite cultivars - upright and weeping forms - that are perfect for Long Island landscapes. Please ask any of our knowledgeable sales associates for assistance.
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