Do I need a border around my foundation plantings, what type of mulch..

landscape-solutions-for-you.com

Do I need a border around my foundation plantings, what type of mulch..

by Debra Brewer
(Covington, Ga.)

I want to put some type of border around my plantings, like an edging.. I like stone and I have a bunch of red bricks that have holes in them.

I plan on will planting some shrubs and flowers around my homes foundation..there is none there now.
I live in the country and need some ideas for a country or cottage like landscaping, but something real simple. My home is very small.... My home is hardy plank siding. Question using a wood edging and mulch.I would like to cut down on all the weed wacking I have to do as well.
What is the landscaping secrets to making beautiful clean looking foundation plantings..

Thank You so much

Comments for
Do I need a border around my foundation plantings, what type of mulch..

Click here to add your own comments

Aug 31, 2010

Border For Foundation Planting and Mulch
by: Kimberly

Hi Debra, Kimberly here from landscape solutions for you. Thank you for asking the question on a border for your foundation plantings and mulch.

One of the most important aspects of landscaping and your investment is planning your project. You will want to think about a weed control program. Properly prep your area. If there is any grass or weeds now, kill them off before you begin. You can use landscape fabric to cut down the weeds. Weeds will grow, but you will be able to have some control over them.

As far as your border, I like the idea of you already having the bricks. This will cut down your cost. You can arrange the bricks in a straight pattern along the edging, or create a pattern with them. If you put down landscape fabric, bring the fabric right up to the edge. You can also dig a small trench to form your border first. This gives your beds a defined look. Your bricks go along the trench.

As far as mulch, I recommend a double ground mulch. This means the mulch has been grounded twice, with no large pieces of wood. Usually you will have to mulch twice a year. You can bring the mulch right up to the brick, if you decide on the brick.

With the country cottage look, you can go informal with your plants. For color year around, consider evergreen shrubs. You can add a couple of deciduous flowering shrubs in as well. The type of shrubs will depend on how much sun you get along the foundation. In your zone, Ruby Loropetalum, Mop Cypress, Indian Hawthorn, are great choices for evergreens. There are many different shrubs and flowers you could use.

As far as your design, if you haven't had a chance, check out the examples of landscape designs. They are hand drawn designs that I have used with previous clients. Also check out the gallery of plants section as well as the variety of more plants to give you some suggestions.

I hope this helps some, and feel free to ask more if you need additional information. Thanks again Debra for asking the question. Good luck to you. The country cottage look is simple and informal. You have a lot of options, but I do like the idea of using the bricks you already have. I hope you have a great day!
Kimberly

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Invitation - 2 A Landscape Section For Everyone To Ask Questions Or Give Tips

Return To Landscape-Solutions Home

Kimberly - Your Expert On Landscape Solutions

Previous Owner
Inside Out
Landscape And Designs

Succulent Container Gardens

Great Kindle Book
Download Today

Growing Together
Free
Monthly Newsletter
4 Plus Years
Of Back Issues

Testimony:
Landscape Solutions
Has The Answers

Hello Mrs. Kimberly:
From Pamela
Georgia, USA

I believe my Loropetalum
is 100% better.
It truly looks
better than it did
when we 1st planted it. Thank you
for providing me
with EXCELLENT tips
as I was about
to dig it up. :)