Avid gardener seeks advice on shade-tolerant plants and Christmas cactus care in a letter to horticulturist Neil Sperry. Looking for low to mid-sized shrubs and groundcovers, the writer is advised to consider hollies like dwarf yaupon and dwarf Burford for shrubs, as well as leatherleaf mahonias and aucubas for groundcovers. Nandinas and azaleas are also recommended for a pop of color in the garden. In response to a question about caring for a Christmas cactus with droopy leaves, Neil suggests checking the potting soil’s drainage and moisture levels, as the cactus is native to tropical rainforests. Propagating new plants from healthy stem segments is also suggested.
Another reader seeks advice on small trees for a compact garden. Neil recommends Lacey oak for its blue-green leaves, ‘Little Gem’ southern magnolia for its smaller size, and Mexican plum for its coarse texture. Other suggestions include ‘Oklahoma’ redbud, golden raintree, Warren’s Red possumhaw holly, and crape myrtles for various flower colors. Taller types of Japanese maples are suggested for heavily shaded areas. These recommendations aim to provide variety and interest in a smaller garden setting. Press article by Neil Sperry offers expert advice on plant selection and care for various garden settings, helping readers enhance their outdoor spaces with the appropriate flora.
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