Gardens: Royal Empress Trees

23. June 2008 admin

If you are planning to plant Royal Empress trees, understand that these are big trees. I mean it– these trees are huge, and grow very fast. Also called Paulownia trees, most Royal Empresses grow to 40 feet, and the biggest ones can reach 60 feet! Be ready for this vertical explosion, because sometimes the sheer height of these behemoths can, over a number of years, dwarf the nearby house and surprise its owners.

The root structures of Royal Empress trees are important to address at this point. Because the tree grows so high, it needs an adequate network of roots to support its growth. Those roots stretch horizontally quite a distance, sometimes with a 35 foot radius. Therefore, dont plant your Empress closer than 30 feet to your house, as you will be doing it a great disservice.

How Fast Do Royal Empress Trees Grow?
Even the most impatient people will be fascinated with the rate of growth of the Royal Empress. The tree can grow 15 to 18 feet in less than three years, and in proper conditions, reach 40 feet at the five year mark. These trees are labeled shade trees because their leaves can sometimes be 12 inches long. That will provide substantial shade for you and your family on those hot summer afternoons.

Empress trees, while large, are not the heartiest trees in the world when it comes to climate. Although they will grow in most parts of the Continental United States, they do not fare well under colder climates. If you live higher than 7,000 feet above sea level, or live in the northernmost states, you might want to consider another type of shade tree for your yard.

Gardens, Home & Garden | 0 Kommentare »

Gardens: Royal Paulownia Trees

22. June 2008 admin

Also called Royal Empress, Royal Paulownia trees are magnificently large and fast growing shade trees. They are popular with landscapers and new home builders because they grow at an incredible rate, and reach maturity at just over five years. They are not just tall, but their leaves are large and provide adequate shade for people who would otherwise have to wait more than a decade for a comparably-sized plant.

Is it advisable to plant Royal Paulownia trees in your yard? You have some factors to consider before you make that decision. First, do you have enough space, both vertically and horizontally, for the Paulownia? These trees can grow to heights of 50 and sometimes 60 feet, which can wreak havoc for overhead power lines. As a matter of fact, in some densely populated residential areas, it is illegal to plant these trees for that exact reason. Check with your residential zoning laws, because it can be very costly to pay for the removal of a 50-foot tree.

Growing Royal Paulownia Trees
There are other restrictions for growing Royal Paulownia trees, and they are environmental. Think of the Royal Paulownia as a giant among normal trees. Special environmental considerations are needed, because you might be introducing a foreign species into an ecosystem. These trees cast a dense shade, and that can have deleterious effects on native species of grasses and shrubs. It might therefore be illegal to plant Paulownia trees; the tree has been placed on the Invasive Species List in some states. Be forewarned.

Some Royal Paulownia trees can have pest and infection problems. Specifically, these trees are susceptible to wood and mildew rot. A common warning sign is if you notice worms on the trunk of the tree. If this happens, dont delay: get the worm identified and take action. Trees dont recover from disease as well as people do.

Gardens, Home & Garden | 0 Kommentare »

Gardens: Royal Empress Paulownia Trees

21. June 2008 admin

Named for a Russian Czar, the Royal Empress Paulownia tree is one of the largest shade trees that is viable for growth in your yard. Many people who are building a home choose the Royal Empress because it grows extremely fast and provides adequate shade for their family. In addition, this growth is noticeable in just the third year of its life, already towering at least 15 feet.

Royal Empress Paulownia trees usually grow up to heights of 50 feet. They can also branch out 30 feet from the trunk, which would make 60 feet in all. This places considerable shade in your yard, and this should be known when planting. It is also important to predict the effect of a Royal Empress Paulownia tree will have on the other foliage of your yard. This will most likely be the tallest tree, and it will definitely take sunlight away from other plants, so take this into consideration.

Location of Planting Royal Empress Paulownia Trees
Assuming that Royal Empresses are legal in your area (consult your residential zoning laws; in some states the Empress is considered invasive and illegal), you will want to plant your tree at least 35 to 40 feet away from your house and septic tank. The root structure of these trees can be considerable.

Another consideration is your climate. Royal Empress Paulownias thrive in warm, but not tropical, environments. They are therefore suitable for much of the United States. Colder climates are not good for Royal Empresses (like in the extreme north). The best time for planting them is in the spring. That will allow the seed adequate time to plant itself before winter.

Gardens, Home & Garden | 0 Kommentare »

Gardens: Mosquito Plant

20. June 2008 admin

The mosquito plant is a triumph of science over nature at its most wonderful. This plant actually repels mosquitos, because it gives off a special scent that mosquitos find unappealing. Mosquitos are a nuisance. Whats worse, they carry diseases (like the most unfortunate West Nile Virus that is plaguing more states every summer). Putting potted mosquito plants in your yard is a safe and natural way to repel these pests.

Mosquito plants were created by Dutch scientists. They repel mosquitos because of citronella grass. Citronella is native to China, and it has been incorporated into wax candles for decades. These candles also repel mosquitos, but they are almost too fragrant and are very smoky. Plus, they are disposable. Mosquito plants provide the same services naturally.

Growing the Mosquito Plant
Mosquito plants do not grow well in a garden, so they are usually potted and put outside on a back deck. They are fragrant, but mildly so, and the lemony scent is pleasing. You can actually take the leaves of the mosquito plant, crush them, and rub them on your skin for a natural bug repellent, but the mere presence of the plant works to keep mosquitos away.

If youre planting a mosquito plant, use a pot that is at least four inches in diameter. These plants usually grow up to be three or four feet tall, so they complement a patio, not dominate it. They do not need direct sunlight all day long, so partial sunlight is fine. They release a sweet odor that is pleasant in the summer months.

Gardens, Home & Garden | 0 Kommentare »

Gardens: Ginkgo Biloba Trees

19. June 2008 admin

If youre looking for a beautiful outdoor tree that is unique in appearance and history, consider Ginkgo Biloba trees. These trees are native to the East, and have been grown in China and Korea for centuries. Why is this one of the most popular non-western trees? Its popularity stems from its colors, size, and levels of maintenance.

Deciduous in type, Ginkgo Bilobas thrive in temperate environments. It is the descendant of a family that stretches back 150 million years, so it goes without saying that it is a resilient tree. Usually green, in fall the tree suddenly turns a vibrant yellow, and then, almost at once, all its leaves drop. Because they all drop at once, there is a golden blanket around the bare tree, and it is quite breathtaking.

Maintenance and Upkeep of Ginkgo Biloba Trees
After the leaves have dropped, raking them up is easy because you only have to do it once. These trees are remarkably resistant to disease, and that serves as a testament to their longevity. Gardeners and landscapers choose Ginkgo Biloba trees because of their growing ability. They are vertically aligned, and are taller than they are wide.

Ginkgo Bilobas are famous for being able to thrive in tight spaces, so you often see them in places like city parks. If you buy a Ginkgo Biloba tree, it would be a good idea to buy a male tree. The females bear fruit, and the seeds are rather pungent, but the males are seedless and every bit as beautiful.

Gardens, Home & Garden | 0 Kommentare »