This can be achieved by removing a stone at appropriate places and planting a conifer such as Juniperus communis 'Repanda', less than i2in(3ocm) high and up to i2ft(3.75m) across which, if planted in a group, almost give a lawn-like appearance. Another rug-like conifer is ]uniperus procumbens 'Nana' up to o,ft(2.75m) across; also the wide-spreading and contour-following Juniperus communis 'Horni-brookii' can be pressed into service. There are few shrubs to equal the qualities of the cotoneaster-so very undemanding in its requirements and thriving in sun or shade. Here again, Cotoneaster dammeri will trail over the stone and the mat of small, deep green leaves and red berries only 2 to 3in(5 to 8cm) high show up attractively against the colour of the paving. Polygonum vacciniifolium is an ideal plant to grow over a flat surface, the long, trailing, reddish-brown leaf sprays tipped with 6in(i5cm) spikes of pink flowers in autumn. It sometimes happens that with certain conifers the spread of the lower branches exceeds the allotted space with the result that a view is hidden or access is obstructed. In some circumstances such conifers can be saved from destruction by removing the lateral branches up to 6 to 8ft (2 to 2.5m) from the ground to leave a clean stem (Fig. 13) and give the tree the shape of a standard. If there are two or three main stems the side branches can be cut in the same way making a tree with twin or triple stems. Shrubs that eventually attain small-tree-like proportions can be pruned in a similar way; by removing all the lower growth from several ascending stems which form the plant's main structure (Fig. 14). The shrubby magnolias are usually low-branched in the earlier years but eventually attain a height of up to 25(7.51x1); the bay (Laurus nobilis) and Genista aetnensis are other examples. The lawn is a basic feature of many gardens, whether purely ornamental or as a play area for children. When planning a new lawn the shape and size will be influenced by various factors but the shape should always be simple, with a minimum of sharp angles so that mowing is facilitated. Ideally, the site should be in full sun. Grass in deeper shade is difficult to maintain satisfactorily. In such situations it may be better to plant shade-tolerant shrubs or ground cover plants. LAWN MAKING Begin site preparation at least two to three months before sowing or turfing is to take place, allowing extra time if the site has to be drained or graded. Clear away any rubble or debris and remove stumps or broken roots. If the site is heavily infested with perennial weeds use appropriate weedkillers; annual weeds can be controlled by alternating cultivations and fallowing. If the site has been disturbed or the top-soil removed establish the depth of top-soil by trial excavations. Ideally, there should be at least o,in(23cm) of top-soil; if less than 6in(i5cm) are present purchase sufficient top-soil to bring it up to this minimum depth.