Alpine Trough Gardens -

The New Way To Garden. Something New: The Alpine Trough Gardens that we actually make and plant are authentic replicas of the 17th & 18th century miniature gardens of Europe, owned, jealously guarded and preserved by the aristocracy The cultivation of Alpine Plants in rock gardens is one of the most satisfying pursuits in the world of gardening. The plants themselves, tough little jewels of the plant kingdom, are endlessly fascinating in their variety. And the creation of a rock garden allows you to imitate Nature's interplay of rock, soil and plant. And those who cultivate these miniatures are truly special gardeners; the elite aristocrats of the gardening profession. First, a bit of history on the origin of Rock Gardening. Miniature rock gardens constructed in hand-hewn troughs or on rock slabs were first developed in England in the 1820's and 1830's. This very specialized form of container gardening presents several attractions: it allows those with limited space to grow some of the most intriguing plants anywhere in cultivation; and even for those not constrained by space, it allows for both better visual presentation of the plants and for more successful cultivation of difficult species and varieties. Generally, Alpine Plants are miniature (under 1ft) even when mature, due mostly to their original harsh, mountainous (Alps and Himalayas) environment keeping them naturally-stunted, in order to maintain life. In cultivation, they grow only 2-3% larger. Many of the conifers and deciduous plants we sell are 10-plus years old, and have proven themselves hardy to Zone 2. So there's no problem growing them in this area. Now you can have instant effect, immediate gratification, in a truly unusual, containerized garden. Simply buy the individual pieces, design and install them yourself, or purchase an already assembled micro- landscape just looking for a permanent home on your deck, patio or pool area. Prices vary according to size of trough, empty or planted, the number of Alpine Perennials and Conifers. Price Lists are available at The Garden Center's Front Counter to help you choose the correct one for your space.

INTERESTING INFORMATION Spring 1996:

Garden Center Guarantee

Alpine Trough Gardens -

New Perennials, Annuals & Nursery Stock for 1995

Seed Starting Materials Featuring Upscale Shepard's Seeds

Roses - Summer Care and Enjoyment

Getting It All Ready For Spring. Again.

Windowsill Container Herb Gardens Become Spring & Summer Outdoor Herb Gardens.

Wildflower Gardens & Meadows Begin This Spring or Fall!

An Acceptable Obsession: Orchids by John Shelley