Having a “green thumb” is a prized possession. Yet, what many individuals do not understand is that developing a beautiful garden that yields flowers and growth is not attributed to a “green thumb” alone. Creating a plan that will allow your garden to flourish is based on the types of plants that are selected and your ability to provide them with what they need to grow and produce. Concepts like these can be learned over time, and you, too, can have a beautiful garden. Following these tips will help you select the right plants for your garden.
Determine Your Vision
Before you begin to plan your garden, consider what you are looking for in your space. Are you envisioning a romantic garden with big peonies and flowing wisteria? Or would you prefer a playful garden with sunflowers and daisies? Sketch your garden area on a piece of paper and begin modifying features, so that you have an idea of what you are looking for. You can always modify as your garden begins to develop, but creating an initial layout provides you with a starting point.
Assess Your Outdoor Space
Spend time researching the area that you plan to put your garden. Observe it during various times of the day to see how much sun the area is getting. Have the soil tested to see if you need to add nutrients or base materials to bring it to a specific pH level before planting. See how the soil handles heavy rain and if it drains appropriately or needs a little help. Knowing your garden before flowers are even added plays a big role in productivity.
Plants that thrive in shady areas include:
Light Shade
- Hydrangea
- Viburnum
- Paeonia
- Some Rose Species
Dense Shade
- Aucuba
- Vinca
- Ferns
- Hosta
Full Sun
- Lavandula
- Salvia
- Penstemon
- Roses
- Geraniums
- Verbena
- Herbs
Evaluate Garden Placement
The direction of your garden will actually help determine which plants will thrive in it. Follow these suggestions to find out which plant types will be the best option for your garden:
North Facing Gardens
- Hydrangea petiolaris (Climbing Hydrangea)
- Sarcococca confusa (Sweet Box)
- Mahonia vars (Creeping Mahonia)
- Liriope muscar (Blue Lily Turf)
- Hosta vars (Hosta)
South Facing Gardens
- Agapanthus Headbourne Hybrids (African Lily)
- Allium vars (Hooker’s Onion)
- Ornamental Grasses (Pampas Grass, Switchgrass, etc.)
- Salvia nemerosa (Caradonna)
- Pelargoniums (Geraniums)
- Lavandula (Lavender)
- Papaver rhoeas (Poppy)
East and West Facing Gardens
Gardens in between North and South dominant areas can often accommodate a variety of plants. A mixture of all of the above plants are suitable.
Strategic Bloom Estimation
This often overlooked aspect will make sure you blooms coincide with one another, creating a “fuller” look to your garden. Plant flowers that bloom similarly near one another, in order to create a large patch of blossoms that will emerge at once. Also, consider plant placement. Don’t overcrowd big plants or overshadow plants that love light.
Maintenance Issues
Some plants simply require more maintenance than others. While you can throw hearty seeds down for some plants and expect a bloom, others need to be babied with fertilizer and proper pH levels in soil. Some of the most difficult plants to maintain include Rhododendron, Azaleas, Sword Fern, Orchids, and Gardenias, to name a few. Sort through plants from websites, such as deckers-nursery.com by their planning needs to ensure you are selecting the proper plants.
