Many seed sources are extremely variable in terms of growth rate, ultimate size and compactness. If the good seed source is in short supply the cheap suppliers fill the gap. Even under the best circumstances there is way too much variation to make designers happy.

Several years ago I found a grower in Oregon that grows Mugho pines from cuttings. This means that they are extremely uniform. It also means that we can pick a variety that grows the way people expect dwarf Mugho pines to grow.

The one we choose is one called Teeny. It has small needles, is compact and stays low and small growing. We only can get enough to last us for about 6 months and when we run out we are out for the rest of the season.

It is only one of the things we are doing to create better gardens for you!

---