Alpine & Rock Gardens Flashcards
(19 cards)
Provide 5 examples of alpine plants
Lewisia cotyledon
Thymus praecox
Saxifraga stolonifera
Phlox sublata
Armeria maritima
What are the opportunities of alpine and rock gardens?
- Variable in size and scale
- Variety of colours, textures, and forms
- Showcase small, delicate plants
- Changes in levels provide visual interest
- Placement of rocks creates ‘instant conditions’
- Alpine plants adapted to harsh environments
- Biodiversity and conservation opportunities
- Low maintenance
What are the limitations of creating alpine and rock gardens?
- Difficulty replicating alpine/mountain conditions
- Considerable soil preparation required
- Importance of background/context
- Limited seasons of interest
- Accessibility issues due to varying levels
- Specialist knowledge may be required
What is the distinction between alpine gardens and rock gardens?
An alpine garden contains only alpine plants, while a rock garden may include a mixture of dwarf varieties, small perennials, bulbs, and alpines.
What factors influence the final plant choice in rock gardens?
- Rock garden size
- Rock and soil type
- General aspect
- Maintenance requirements
- Personal plant preferences
What are the three main styles or shapes of rock gardens?
- Cliff
- Terrace
- Outcrop
What is a cliff style rock garden?
A steeply sloping site where rocks support the soil and slope.
What is a terrace style rock garden?
A style suitable for planting shrubs and trees, allowing for greater soil depth.
What is an outcrop style rock garden?
Rocks placed on the surface.
What should be considered for sustainability in rock gardens?
- Use salvaged or second-hand natural stone
- Be mindful of legislation around protected limestone pavements
- Source local, sustainably produced, peat-free plants
What are the maintenance requirements for alpine and rock gardens?
- Watering until established
- Regular weeding
- Monitoring for pests and diseases
What are common pests and diseases affecting rock plants?
- Ants
- Aphids
- Birds
- Slugs and snails
- Vine weevil
What health and safety issues are associated with rock gardens?
- Safety implications of tiers at height
- Slippery surfaces
- Heavy lifting risks
- Access difficulties for visitors
What are significant rock & alpine gardens in the UK?
- RHS Wisley (created 1910-12)
- Kew Gardens (one of the oldest and largest)
- Leonardslee (built in 1890)
- Ellen Willmott’s Warley Place (once imaginative, now in disrepair)
Fill in the blank: Alpine plants are compact plants that usually produce lots of tiny _______ flowers in vibrant colours.
jewel-like
True or False: A rock garden may contain only alpine plants.
False
What is the ideal type of rock to use for consistency in a rock garden?
Same type of rock throughout the garden
What is hypertufa?
A material that mimics porous rock, made from sand, wood bark, and cement.
What are the benefits of sourcing materials locally for rock gardens?
Minimizes carbon footprint and avoids manufacturing processes.
