DOWN-TO-EARTH ALPINES
Nothing’s prettier than a trough filled with these hardy f loral delights
AWeLL planted alpine trough can look prettier than the crown Jewels. Mountain plants may be small and tough, but in order to attract pollinators their flowers must be extra alluring. That’s why gentians, mountain primulas or cascading silverwhite saxifrages are so eyecatching. Walk above the snow line, on a mountain with colourful wild plants, and the memory will stay with you for ever.
‘alpine’ is a catch-all word for almost all compact plants from rocky habitats. But true alpines, originating from high in the mountains, are extra special. To thrive, they must be low-growing and rugged as well as beautiful.
We’re not flush for huge mountains in Britain. But gemlike purple saxifrage grows in yorkshire’s limestone pavements. cheddar Gorge in Somerset has its own little pink flower, and Orkney’s tiny Scottish primrose, Primula scotica, has grey leaves and clusters of purple-pink flowers.
all three look lovely in an alpine trough. But with so many other compact plants worldwide, the choice is almost infinite. With enough space, you could build a large rock garden.
But alpines are perfect for containers, too — especially shallow troughs or stone sinks. That makes them assets in every garden, or even on a balcony.
EASY-GOING BEAUTIES
The diversity of alpines will astound you. Some are difficult, needing special conditions and expert skills. But the vast majority are easy, tolerant and just as pretty.
For spring, small primulas include P. marginata, whose violet-mauve flowers are carried above grey-green leaves. There are easy saxifrages, too. Some, like S. Tumbling Waters, have long cascades of little white flowers. Others develop into cushions, studded with flowers.
Purple Pasque flowers, Pulsatilla, are blooming now. Those could be followed by pink, lilac or white thrift, armeria. For high summer, there are little campanulas, summer sedums and fancy marjorams such as Origanum kent Beauty.
you’ll find more exquisite plants if you browse the websites of specialist nurseries.
Growers include pottertons. co.uk, slacktopnurseries.co.uk and edrom-nurseries.co.uk. The alpine Garden Society is worth joining, too. its journal, The alpine Gardener, has valuable information and illustrations.
LOOKING THEIR BEST
aNTiQUe sinks and troughs are rare and usually expensive. Passable imitations can be more affordable. The new look soon fades, especially if lichens or mosses grow over the outside.
Old farm troughs, even metal ones, can be surprisingly attractive. you can reduce the metallic starkness by letting plants trail over the sides. That will keep the metal cool, too.
For alpines, soil or container growing medium must drain freely. adding coarse grit or shingle can help with that.
Most varieties prefer neutral or alkaline soil. however, a few need acidic conditions. examples include tiny rhododendrons such as R. impeditum, Gaultheria and most heathers.
Fusspots such as gentians and lewisias benefit from crumbly leaf-mould. if you need guidance, ask for advice. Most alpine nurserymen are happy to share their expertise.