Landscaping shrubs

We don't have a lot of landscaping shrubs in our yard. We'll be the first to admit it, we are not shrub people. We have some lilacs and forsythias that are in a common area that borders our neighbors to the west. The exact ownership of these plants is unclear, but they have been there since we moved in almost 29 years ago. There are also some privets in the front that have a similar pedigree. These along with a couple of spindly azaleas and a butterfly bush we planted last year are all we have.

Shrubs can serve many purposes. They can add privacy and shield unsightly but necessary things like gas meter or power transformers. When used with annuals or other perennials they can also form the backdrop or foundation for your landscaping design.

I think one of the reasons that we don't do more with shrubs is that there are so many boring implementations. There are the ubiquitous junipers, yews, arborvitae, boxwoods and privets. With the exception of arborvitae, many of these are planted against the foundation of the home and trimmed into boring square shapes. While these plantings are easy to maintain- a few trimmings a year and some mulch, they are BORING!

Shrubs come in many different sizes, shapes, and colors. From deep purple to bright yellow there is a great variety of plants that can be mixed and matched to add interest and beauty to your home. There are also tall, short, wide, and narrow forms that can be kept trimmed for a more formal look or left to grow naturally.

There are many varieties to choose from. Some are native to North America and others have been imported from other lands. Most are low maintenance plants that require only the occasional trimming to maintain the size and shape that you desire. Return to Home Page from Landscaping Shrubs