What to plant between boxwoods can greatly influence the overall aesthetic appeal and functionality of your landscape design. Boxwoods are popular shrubs known for their dense foliage and evergreen characteristics. They provide a versatile backdrop for other plants, creating a visually captivating garden. However, the spaces between boxwoods are an excellent opportunity to add diversity and enhance the overall beauty of your outdoor space. By carefully selecting the right plants to complement boxwoods, you can create a well-balanced and cohesive landscape. In this article, we will explore various options and considerations when determining what to plant between boxwoods. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make the most of this space!
key Takeaways
- Boxwoods are a popular choice for hedges, but they often leave gaps at the base that need to be filled with ground cover plants.
- A variety of low-growing plants can be used as ground covers between boxwoods to add color, texture, and fill in any bare spots.
- Some suitable ground cover options for planting between boxwoods include perennials like mondo grass, liriope, and creeping phlox.
- For a more natural look, consider using creeping thyme, creeping sedum, or creeping Jenny as ground covers.
- When selecting ground cover plants, make sure to consider their growth habits, height, and compatibility with boxwoods and the specific growing conditions of your garden.
- Proper spacing and maintenance are essential for allowing both the boxwoods and ground covers to flourish and coexist harmoniously.
- Regular watering, fertilizing, and weeding are necessary to keep the ground cover plants healthy and prevent them from overshadowing the boxwoods.
- Be mindful of the mature size of the chosen ground cover plants to avoid overcrowding and competition for resources.
- By carefully selecting and maintaining ground cover plants, you can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your boxwood hedge while improving garden biodiversity.
What are the Best Plants to Grow Between Boxwoods?
Boxwoods:
Boxwoods are evergreen shrubs that are commonly used for hedges and borders in gardens. They are known for their dense foliage, compact growth habit, and ability to tolerate pruning. Boxwoods are versatile plants and can thrive in various growing conditions.
Why plant between boxwoods?
Planting between boxwoods can add depth and visual interest to your garden. It can also help suppress weeds and reduce maintenance by filling in the empty spaces. The right plants can complement the boxwoods, creating a cohesive and attractive landscape.
Considerations before planting:
Before choosing the plants to grow between boxwoods, there are some factors to consider. The available space, light conditions, soil type, and the overall design of your garden should all influence your selection. It is important to choose plants that can thrive in the same growing conditions as the boxwoods.
Best plants to grow between boxwoods:
1. Perennial groundcovers: Low-growing, spreading plants like creeping thyme, creeping phlox, or sedums are excellent choices. These plants can form a dense carpet of foliage and often produce colorful flowers, adding vibrancy to the area.
2. Ornamental grasses: Grasses like Japanese forest grass or blue fescue can create a textural contrast against the boxwood’s dense foliage. They add movement and create a soft, flowing effect in your garden.
3. Herbaceous perennials: Plants like hostas, heucheras, or daylilies can provide height and vertical interest between boxwoods. They often have attractive foliage and produce flowers, enhancing the overall beauty of the area.
4. Flowering bulbs: Spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils or tulips can create a stunning display when planted between boxwoods. Their vibrant colors and the early bloom season can bring life to your garden after the winter months.
5. Annuals: For seasonal color, consider planting annual flowers like petunias, marigolds, or begonias between boxwoods. These plants offer a wide range of colors and are relatively easy to maintain.
Maintenance tips:
Regular maintenance is important to ensure the health and beauty of the plants growing between boxwoods. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Water the plants regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune the plants as needed to maintain their shape and prevent overcrowding.
- Monitor for pests and diseases and take prompt action if necessary.
By following these maintenance practices, you can ensure that the plants between boxwoods continue to thrive and enhance the overall appearance of your garden.
FAQs
1. Can I plant flowers between boxwoods?
Yes, planting flowers between boxwoods can add color and variety to your garden. However, it’s important to choose flowers that can tolerate the shade and competition for resources from the boxwoods. Some good options include shade-tolerant annuals like impatiens and begonias, as well as low-growing perennials like hostas and ferns.
2. What are some alternatives to flowers for planting between boxwoods?
If you prefer a more uniform and low-maintenance look, you can consider planting groundcover plants between boxwoods. Examples include creeping thyme, creeping phlox, and vinca minor. These plants are low-growing and can help suppress weeds, while providing a lush green carpet around your boxwoods.
3. How far apart should the plants be spaced when planting between boxwoods?
The spacing between plants will depend on the specific plants you choose and your desired look. In general, it’s recommended to space plants between boxwoods by about 12-18 inches. This allows enough room for the plants to grow and spread, while still maintaining a neat and cohesive appearance.
4. Should I mulch between boxwoods?
Mulching between boxwoods can help suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. However, be careful not to pile the mulch directly against the boxwood trunks, as this can create a moist environment that promotes disease. Leave a small gap between the mulch and the base of the boxwoods to allow for air circulation.
5. How do I care for the plants planted between boxwoods?
Proper care for the plants planted between boxwoods includes regular watering, weeding, and fertilizing. Make sure to water the plants deeply and consistently, especially during dry spells. Remove any weeds that compete for resources and provide regular fertilization according to the specific needs of your chosen plants. Additionally, monitor for any signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate action to prevent or treat any issues that may arise.
Types and Options for Planting in Shade
1. Shade-loving Plants
If your garden has shaded areas, it’s crucial to choose plants that can thrive in these conditions. Some popular shade-loving plants include ferns, hostas, astilbes, and hydrangeas. These plants have adapted to lower light levels and can add beauty and texture to your shaded garden areas.
2. Groundcover Options
Groundcover plants can add a lush and cohesive look to your garden, especially in areas with limited sunlight. Some groundcover options for shade include vinca minor, creeping thyme, pachysandra, and lamium. These low-growing plants spread quickly, help suppress weeds, and provide a beautiful carpet of foliage.
3. Designing with Shade Plants
When designing with shade plants, consider creating contrast with different shades of green foliage and varying textures. Combine larger plants like hostas and hydrangeas with smaller, filler plants like ferns and lamium. This layering effect can add depth and interest to your shaded garden areas.
4. Maintaining Shade Gardens
Shade gardens require proper maintenance to ensure the health and beauty of the plants. Regularly check soil moisture levels and provide adequate watering, as shaded areas may retain moisture longer. Additionally, monitor for signs of pests or diseases specific to shade plants and take appropriate action to prevent or treat any issues that may arise.
Final Thoughts
In summary, when choosing what to plant between boxwoods, you have several options. Flowers can add color and variety, while groundcover plants can create a uniform and low-maintenance look. The spacing between plants should be about 12-18 inches, and mulching can be beneficial but should be done with caution. Proper care, including watering, weeding, and fertilizing, is important to ensure the health of the plants planted between boxwoods.
Furthermore, if you have shaded areas in your garden, there are various types and options for planting in shade. Shade-loving plants such as ferns and hostas can thrive in these conditions, while groundcover plants like vinca minor and creeping thyme can provide a beautiful carpet of foliage. When designing with shade plants, consider creating contrast and layering different textures. Regular maintenance, including proper watering and pest control, is essential for the health of shade gardens. By carefully selecting and tending to the plants in your garden, you can create a beautiful and thriving landscape.