How to Plan a Shrub Space | Part 1 of 4

Shrubs are often overlooked by gardeners. They may already be in place when we start planning our gardens, or they may be so well-established that we don’t think about them as design elements. As a result, we may relegate them to the role of providing privacy or a backdrop, rather than considering their potential to add beauty and interest to our gardens.

However, shrubs can be much more than just functional plants. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be used to create a variety of different effects in the garden. Some shrubs, such as hydrangeas and lilacs, can provide stunning blooms. Others, such as evergreens, can provide year-round interest. And still others, such as shrubs with colorful foliage, can add a touch of brightness to the garden.

In our next blog series Don’t Snub the Shrub, our expert gardeners will provide a variety of tips on ways to incorporate shrubs into your space. For now, here are a few tips when considering shrubs:

• Think about the sun and shade requirements of the shrub. Some shrubs prefer full sun, while others prefer partial shade.
• Consider the bloom time of the shrub. If you want blooms all season long, choose shrubs with different bloom times.
• Pair shrubs with other plants to create a cohesive look. For example, you could pair a shrub with colorful flowers or evergreens.
• Consider the size and shape of the shrub when choosing a location. Some shrubs can grow quite large, so make sure you have enough space.
• Prune shrubs regularly to maintain their shape and size.

Need help? Our expert garden team is here for you. Send us an email to hello@barnowlgarden.com