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What to Plant in Front of Boxwoods: A Guide to Complementary Planting
Boxwoods have been a favorite among gardeners for centuries, and it's not hard to see why. These evergreen shrubs are easy to care for, versatile, and add an elegant touch to any garden. But what many gardeners don't realize is that boxwoods can also make excellent backdrops for other plants, creating a perfect backdrop for a stunning garden. In this article, we will discuss what to plant in front of boxwoods, a guide to complementary planting.
Why Plant in Front of Boxwoods?
Boxwoods are great for creating a simple and classic garden look. However, when planted alone, they may look too plain and lack personality. By planting other plants in front of boxwoods, you can add texture, color, and variety to your garden. Also, planting in front of boxwoods is an excellent way to cover up any blemishes and enhance their overall appearance.
Considerations for Complementary Planting
Choosing the right plants to pair with boxwoods requires a bit of consideration. You'll need to think about factors like color, texture, and the plant's growth patterns along with how much sun or shade they require. Here are some things to consider before choosing your plants:
- Color: Boxwoods are typically a bright green color, which means you might want to choose plants with contrasting colors such as purples, reds, and yellows. Alternatively, you can choose plants with a more subdued color palette that matches well with boxwoods. Neutral tones like whites and grays can be a great choice.
- Texture: Adding different textures to your garden can make it more interesting. Consider plants with foliage that ranges from lacy to full and dense, or mix in some plants with different-shaped leaves.
- Growth patterns: Boxwoods can be slow-growing, so it's essential to choose plants that grow at a similar pace to avoid overshadowing the boxwoods quickly.
- Sun exposure: Boxwoods can thrive in full sun or partial shade, so it's essential to select plants that can tolerate the same conditions. Otherwise, you may end up with plants that can't handle the amount of sun or shade the boxwoods require.
What to Plant in Front of Boxwoods
Once you have considered the factors mentioned above, it's time to choose the plants to plant in front of the boxwoods. Here are some options:
1. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are a classic choice for planting in front of boxwoods. They are known for their large, colorful blooms that range from blue to pink to white and their lush foliage. Consider planting them in partial shade, and keep in mind that they require consistent moisture.
2. Liriope
Liriope is a low-maintenance plant with grass-like foliage that can add a modern touch to your garden. Its purple flowers bloom in late summer, and their berries attract birds in the fall. They can thrive in both shady and sunny conditions, making them an excellent choice for planting in front of boxwoods.
3. Salvia
Salvia is a popular choice for its bold blue or purple flowers that bloom in the summer. It thrives in sunny conditions and requires minimal water, making it an excellent choice for those who don't want to spend a lot of time watering. Its bright color contrasts nicely with the deep-green of boxwoods.
4. Coneflowers
Coneflowers are a great choice for adding some brightness to your garden. They come in a range of colors, including purple, white, yellow, and orange, and have distinctive center cones. Coneflowers thrive in full sun and require minimal maintenance.
5. Hostas
Hostas are an excellent choice for planting in front of boxwoods because their lush foliage complements the boxwoods' simple lines. They are easy to maintain and can grow in a variety of light conditions, from full shade to partial sun. With some varieties producing delicate yet colorful flowers such as pale lavender, dark purple, or white!
FAQs
Q: How far should I plant the complementary plants from the boxwoods?
A: Most of the plants mentioned in the article should be planted at least two to three feet away from the boxwoods. This allows both plants to grow without overcrowding.
Q: Can I plant flowers in front of boxwoods?
A: Absolutely! In fact, many of the plants mentioned above are flowers. Look for upright flower arrangements that pair well in contrast with the background of the boxwoods.
Q: Can I plant vegetables in front of boxwoods?
A: You could, but it's usually not a common thing to do. Boxwoods are not very edible, so it may be best to plant vegetables in a different part of your garden.
Q: Are boxwoods hard to grow?
A: Boxwoods are relatively easy to grow with the right care. They need to be adequately watered and fertilized and pruned correctly. If you take care of them, you can expect them to live up to 100 years!
Q: How do I prune boxwoods?
A: Pruning should typically be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth has begun. Use sharp shears to remove any dead or diseased wood, then shape the plant as desired.
In conclusion, planting in front of boxwoods can add layers of interest and complement the elegant yet straightforward features of the boxwood plant. By considering factors such as color, texture, growth patterns, sun exposure, and more, you can choose the perfect complementary plants for your garden. The options are wide-ranging and versatile to match your personal style from flower arrangements to textured foliage. Keep in mind the spacing requirements and maintenance needs of each plant, and enjoy the lush and beautiful attractions in your garden!
