For easy maintenance, shrubs are next best after trees. Shrubs can be used in small gardens to fill space in the same way that trees can be used in large gardens. Many of them are fast-growing and quickly fill a considerable area. A piece of ground planted with shrubs has a much lower maintenance requirement than a similar area of lawn. Therefore, the conversion of part of the garden area to accommodate shrubs reduces effort.

Many shrubs clothe themselves with foliage down to ground level, which increases their competitive ability over non-woody weeds. A distinct advantage in favour of woody plants in general, and shrubs in particular, is their immunity to the chemical weedkiller, Simazine. Although not all shrubs are immune, the majority are.

The King palm is said to have a "crown" which is the smooth green to purplish-brown portion of the trunk that starts 3 feet below the leaves. This solitary trunk palm grows to 60 feet tall and displays arching feather leaves. The pinkish flowers are clustered on pendulous inflorescences which grow from the base of the crownshaft. Will grow in full sun to part shade with occasional summer watering. It stabilizes soil erosion and is wind tolerant. Hardy to 28°F.

When adding trees or shrubs to your home landscape, be sure you have the right plant for the right place, taking into account the site, the hardiness of the new plants, and your geographic location. Following are things you can do to be sure your transplants become well established:

FAMILY: Aceraceae

Introduction

Shrubs are important components of both rural and urban areas. They provide beauty, diversity, wind protection, privacy, homes for wildlife and even a source of human food. Backyards, gardens, shelterbelts, woodlots, wildlife areas, and fence rows are among the areas that could beneflt from shrub plantings. Species selection and planting designs vary with the landowner's tastes and objectives. Yet, there are certain guidelines to remember.

A tree may need pruning for a variety of reasons:

· To remove diseased or storm-damaged branches
· To thin the crown to permit new growth and better air circulation
· To reduce the height of a tree
· To remove obstructing lower branches
· To shape a tree for design purposes

Because of their permanence and importance in the landscape, shade trees should be selected with great care.

Trees provide shade, help shelter us from wind, and may screen undesirable views or enhance beautiful vistas. Trees make our environment more livable.

Evergreens are often sold as "ball and burlap" plants; that is, the roots are contained in a ball of soil that has been wrapped in burlap. The soil helps prevent the roots from drying out. Trees and shrubs may also be sold in pots or bare-rooted. Here are some buying tips: