Evergreen Gardens

TROUGHS, heavy shallow containers with drainage holes, are another alternative for rock gardeners. When filled with the proper soil, this small mini climate serves to shelter and show off alpines. Troughs can be left outside all year and become a permanent home as if the plant was nestled in the cavity of a huge boulder.

Troughs may have originated with British rock gardeners searching for a suitable environment for their collections. Old stone horse watering troughs with holes in the bottom would last from year to year. Because the sides were raised, collectors could create layers of gravel drainage that rock plants require. Most alpines grow in thin soil, on land that may be mostly small pebbles.

For fun, try planting "Theme" troughs. There are hundreds of theme ideas if you use your imagination. Some suggestions may be:

Plants and rocks from your favorite state or country
Troughs planted with your favorite colors
Single genus troughs
Plants of architectural shape
Railroads, parks, miniatures, etc.