City and Courtyard Gardens - The Best Plants to Grow in Your Garden
City and courtyard gardens often have a unique set of challenges, primarily due to their smaller size and the urban environment they inhabit. However, with the right plants, these spaces can become lush, verdant oases.
- Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens): This evergreen shrub is ideal for formal and informal gardens. It’s perfect for hedging or topiary due to its dense growth habit.
- Clematis: A climbing plant ideal for adding vertical interest and color to walls and fences. Most varieties need good sun exposure.
- Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum): This small, deciduous tree is perfect for courtyards. It offers beautiful, intricate leaves and great autumn color.
- Ferns: Shade-tolerant ferns like the sword fern or Japanese painted fern can add texture and a cool, green look to a shady city garden.
- Hostas: These are great for shady spots and their lush, varied foliage adds a touch of beauty.
- Lavender (Lavandula): This plant not only adds color and fragrance but also is drought-tolerant, perfect for sunny spots.
- Bamboo (Fargesia): This non-invasive bamboo can add a touch of the exotic to a city garden. They also act as excellent screening plants.
- Succulents: They are perfect for containers in sun-drenched courtyards.
Remember, the key is to consider your specific environment, including how much sun your garden gets, the quality of your soil, and how much time you can devote to garden maintenance.
