Korean Maple, Sping Grove Ginkgo Island Bed Update - Late August 2024

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Earlier this season, I planted a dwarf Spring Grove Ginkgo tree, a Korean Maple (Northern Glow Maple) and a clump of Inferno Coleus in a new island bed in the middle of our front yard.  I used shade cloth to protect all of these from the hot Summer sun, but with the calendar turning to late-August (and Nat saying that it was looking a little 'Sanford & Son'), I recently took the shade cloth down.  And, here, below is how everything is faring this Summer.  The photo shows the Ginkgo, Maple and Coleus all doing well.  I say 'well' because they're not dying.  

Spring Grove Ginkgo, Northern Glow Korean Maple and Inferno Coleus in Island Bed

The top of the Maple saw some damage, but I'm pretty sure that's due to the shade cloth.  The Ginkgo is putting on tiny, curled leaves.  And the coleus is thriving.  

Here's what this spot looked like BEFORE I created this new island bed.  

My plan for [Fall 2024] is to connect this bed to the driveway and sidewalk and cover it in mulch.  Guess I need to start saving cardboard.  

Location: Downers Grove, IL, USA

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