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Growing Home - Microclimates

Every yard has many microclimates. South-facing walls tend to be the warmest spots, while north sides of fences and houses are shadier and remain cooler. Recognizing these variations allows gardeners to optimize plant placement. There is one type of fruit tree pruning known as “espalier” where the tree is pruned in a one-dimensional fashion up against a flat surface so all the branches, fruits and leaves are within a few inches of a warm wall. This can prevent early damaging frosts and extend the plant growth into colder weather.