Shrubs - Inspiring Garden Ideas for all Gardeners
In the gardening world, shrubs are akin to the trusty sidekick, working in harmony with other elements of your landscape to create an overall effect that’s much greater than the sum of its parts. Often underappreciated, shrubs possess a quiet charm and versatility that make them indispensable to any garden.
- Formal and Informal Hedges: With careful pruning, shrubs like boxwood or yew can form structured, formal hedges that give definition to a garden. Alternatively, consider a looser, informal hedge with shrubs like lilac or viburnum for a more natural look.
- Foliage Color: Not all shrubs need to flower to make a statement. Varieties like ‘Sunset Magic’ Crape Myrtle or ‘Golden Ruby’ Barberry boast vibrant foliage that provides color throughout the season.
- Seasonal Interest: Choose shrubs like hydrangeas for summer blooms, witch hazel for winter interest, or autumn-brilliant species like burning bush to have color in your garden all year round.
- Wildlife Attractors: Many shrubs, such as berry-producing holly or butterfly bush, are fantastic for attracting wildlife. They provide shelter for small creatures and nectar or food for insects and birds.
- Compact Varieties for Small Spaces: If your garden is small, consider dwarf or compact shrubs. They can also be grown in containers for patio gardens.
- Mixed Shrub Borders: Try combining various shrubs, both flowering and non-flowering, for a dynamic and textured garden border.
Remember, the key is to choose the right shrub for your specific garden conditions and design goals. Happy gardening!
