What are the best wind-tolerant plants for a hill?
QWe have moved to a fantastic spot with amazing views of a valley and beyond. We have cleared away lots of 20ft conifers and now want to plant some wind-tolerant replacements, trees or shrubs as it is a one-acre plot. Any suggestions for us?
Andrea Bowyer, Staffordshire
AI keep thinking of that wonderful view you have now that the conifers have gone. I suggest that you plant the following wind-resistant trees and shrubs:
■
Field maple (Acer campestre): An attractive tree prized for its radiant golden autumn-tinted leaves.
Acer ‘Drummondii’: A striking maple with creamy-white-margined green foliage.
Birch (Betula utilis jacquemontii): Dazzling white or creamy stems.
Hawthorn (Crataegus x lavalleei): Bountiful white flowers followed by a wealth of orange berries that last for most of winter
Laburnum ‘Vossii’: Long and
Trees
pendulous bright yellow ‘chains’ of blossom.
Mountain ash (Sorbus aucuparia ‘Cardinal Royal’): Reddish autumn-tinted leaves; bright red berries.
■
Berberis thunbergii atropurpurea: Pale yellow flowers; bronzy-red leaves, vivid red in autumn.
Shrubs
Butterfly bush (Buddleja ‘Dartmoor’): Large sprays of purple-red blossom.
Dogwood (Cornus ‘Midwinter Fire’: Orange, red and golden bark, striking in winter.
Ornamental quince (Chaenomeles ‘Crimson and Gold’): Crimson petals and golden anthers.
Forysthia ‘Lynwood’ A wealth of bright yellow flowers.
Elaeagnus ‘Gilt Edge’: Leaves margined with gold.