eclair1 0 Report post Posted April 25, 2013 I am thinking about removing the old shrubs from the front of my house to put in some new plants, trees, flowers, etc. that are more interesting, more beautiful, and low, low maintenance. I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions. I've attached a couple of photos. I live in Warren, have a lot of clay soil, and my home faces East. Thank you so very, very much for any thoughts you might be able to share with me. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Margaret Thele 16 Report post Posted April 29, 2013 First for low, low maintenance - you do have to remember that every garden takes well to a gardener's hand and you have to keep up with it several times per season. Improving the soil with compost or composted cow manure helps to improve the health of plants and by mulching and adding drip irrigation you can be freed of the chores of weeding and watering. The rocks, unless placed on a weed mat don't do much as mulch - so, a big job, but I would consider removing them. A better mulch is a composted bark or shredded bark that will break down and improve the soil over time. Several perennial flowers may be good for long length of bloom for you. I often think about the garden in four seasons - spring - for earliest color, summer for a lush period of growth and bloom, fall - for the last colors of the season and finally winter when the evergreens and hardscape shine. You have such a boxy, angular house that I think it would be complemented by more rounded, softer shapes and textures and maybe some curving beds, to soften all those angles. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites