A LOOK AT ORNAMENTAL TREES.(AT HOME)(Gardening)

Byline: Lindsay Bond Totten Scripps Howard News Service

Seasonal color from small ornamental trees does not have to fade with the crabapple blossoms in spring. In fact, I find myself recommending crabs less frequently these days - having reached the conclusion that there will never be a dearth of their cheerful blossoms in spring.

It's up to gardeners to shop 'outside the box,' recruiting summer and fall bloomers, such as stewartia, seven-son flower and sourwood, to extend the blooming season.

Planting these out-of-the ordinary species increases diversity in our landscapes - and a sound ecological tenet - while sharing their lavish gifts with the entire neighborhood.

Pekin lilac …