Bulletin - Summer 1994 - North American Rock Garden Society

TroughsA Few More Commentsby Waid VanderpoelT'A ve been asked to comment on any points missed in the wonderful lastissue of the ARGS Bulletin on troughs. What can I add to the marvelous assemblageof information, expertise and tips set forth in the six excellent articleswhich collectively covered troughs—would that we could mulch as completelyas this topic was covered. My good spouse read those articles and informed meI'd be writing a very short piece. Nevertheless, I'll give it a try.Regional troughsMore rock gardeners are utilizing this concept. It is one I have alwaysenjoyed, partly because it provides interesting contrasts of foliage. Regionaltrough themes allow us to create miniature landscapes aimed at simulatingnature—a goal towards which we strive.How long do troughs hold up?After fifteen to seventeen years I do observe serious deterioration of the structureof my oldest troughs. However, the modern acrylic bonding agents andfibers mentioned in Michael Slater's articles should extend trough life, possiblydramatically.Evergreens in troughsWhile Anita Kistler would disagree, and her reason is based on solid, successfulexperience, I do not feel my own experience would support the use of evergreensin troughs over a long period of time. I have two small troughs each containinga handsome little Picea abies 'Echiniformis'. However, the roots are sodominant that only one faithful Erigeron pinnatisectus survives as a companion inone trough after a dozen years, while nothing else remains in the second trough.What do you do with a trough now dominated by only a very few faithful oldplants?This is not an easy question, and it is probably best decided by each individualrock gardener. However, most gardeners will enjoy their troughs most if205