I have around eight small trees growing in my small garden, mainly consisting of Japanese Acers and Salix integra ‘Flamingo’. The later two are grown as standards.

Evergreen plants are the backbone of the easy-care garden. I call these the gardens structural plants as they provide interest all year. They are the stars of the winter garden. I use both shrubs and perennials to provide evergreen interest.

In my garden you will find perennials that can cope with dry shade, damp shade and wetland environments. There are even some that prefer sun, but also don’t mind some occasional light shade.