Plants for garden railroading

Garden railroads combine two popular pastimes, gardening and model railroads, into a hobby that provides fun for the entire family, from youngest to oldest. For example, the family can plant, weed and water the garden, operate the trains, or build train stations, houses, and other structures from scratch or with kits

Plant Environments?
Plants need a compatible environment to survive. A plant that fits the theme might not fit the growing site. To be successful, railroad gardeners must heed the plant selection guidelines applicable to all gardens.
Does the plant require acidic or alkaline soil, sunlight or shade, and moist or dry soil?
Is the plant fast-growing or slow-growing?
What size will it eventually be?
Is it hardy in your country?
Will it grow in clay soil or does it require good drainage?
Fortunately, plant labels often contain much of this information. .

Garden Railroading:
Generally, garden railroads fall into two main types. One style is characterized by realism. Railway designs are based on real railroads, features are kept to scale and trains and structures have a weathered appearance. The other style is more whimsical. The colorful trains and buildings of these railways serve as garden ornaments designed to add a decorative touch to the landscape. Each railway is truly unique, with much diversity within these two categories.

How to control growth
Occasional pruning and the use of bonsai techniques keep trees and shrubs small.
Living trees continue to get bigger; this is why it is necessary to cut the back. Generally, conifers grow more slowly than deciduous trees and
among the latter, some grow more rapidly than others, this is why they must be pruned to greater or lesser extend.
Pruning consists of cutting young shoots, leaves and branches. It is this giving the tree its shape and preserves it. Pruning is in fact an activity
which has to be repeated often. Pruning not only serves to strengthen the plant, but also to limit its growth.

Type of Garden R ailroads
If you decide to build a garden railway, keep in mind that careful planning prior to construction is vital. Railways that are integrated into the garden setting are the most appealing. Experts advise starting simple. After gaining experience and knowledge you can gradually add to the layout. Initially a garden railway may be a lot of work, but it will reward you with lots of fun.