Choosing a Specialty Garden
When considering starting a garden, thematic issues always arise. Is it better to grow a multitude of types of plants or is it better to explore the immense variety of species within a particular variety of plant? It is possible to do both, of course, but if you decide to specialize in a particular type of plant, there are a few things to consider before getting started.
First and foremost, there must be a tremendous interest in the plant type. You will be embarking on growing plants that will have a life time of no less than a year and in most cases many years. You not only have to consider what will hold your interest, but your location and how the plants that you choose to grow will interact with your specific environment. Your specialty plant choice may depend on whether you have access to a large outdoor planting area or a small indoor space. Some areas will have local resources for your specialty plants. If not, you will have to use mail order and internet sources to get the information and resources you need to make your garden a successful one. Starting your garden will involve choosing a propagation method, as well. You will need to decide between growing your plants from seed and purchasing young seedlings. For some plants, propagation by rooting cuttings may work best. Seasonal climates can also play a role in picking the specialty garden that is right for you. Harsher climates may require the use of greenhouses or relocating plants from time to time. (more…)