Thursday, December 23, 2010

Excellent Border Shrubbery


Border shrubbery can have a big impact on any size of garden. However the general rule is that one should avoid creating straight border edges. Experts recommend gentle curves can be more impressive. Curves can have a bigger impact and allow for more visual enjoyment.

Next one should select the right plants- either drifts or clumps. Drifts are elongated collections of plants that rest through certain sections of the border. Clumps consist of circular collections of either a variety or a single large shrub. It is necessary to vary the heights and diameter to promote a good visual effect. Of course the dimensions should be in close proportion to the overall border length.

It is best to select several plants to create the desired effect. Random collection of many shrubs reveals chaos and disorganization. Arrange the shrubs in an irregular shape and blend in the colors. The smaller shrubs may be used as a continuous edging along the front of the bed.

Always place the tall flowers at the back of the bed. In general the plant height you leave should be no more than 2/3rd the width of the border and plants should not be very wide. Try and space the plants and do not squeeze in all plants in one corner.

Some of the best shrubs and plants for borders include the gladiolus, holly hock, and the snap dragons. One may even select bushy annuals and perennials. Try not to use plants with warm colors if you have a small backyard as this will give the illusion of very little space. The smaller the area, the fewer warm colors should be used. However, if you want to create a more traditional garden border that makes use of perennials.  You will need to carefully consider the types of perennials that you wish to use because there are numerous choices. While many plants and flowers will thrive and grow in the southeast, some do much better than others at blooming and flowering throughout the year.

Now that you have the colors and the size, choose the shrubs, the peony is one the best perennials for garden borders. It has wonderful flowers and the plant does not require a lot of maintenance. Peonies have a long life so you will never have to replace the border again.

Sunflower may serve a dual purpose as flowers in the border and as background plants. Annual or perennial flowers of medium height may serve as background plants for a short border planting.

Another favorite for the border is the coreopsis which grows all year round. The only negative is that the coreopsis does multiply fast so you will have to trim them every few years.

The helleborius with its late flowering makes a great choice for the border. The striking red color will go well with green shrubbery. In addition, it will also attract a variety of birds and insects. 
Finally, be bold and creative. Even if mistakes are made, flowers and shrubs can be moved or taken out altogether.


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