Easy-Care Classic Design for Portland Colonial
Before
The owners of this colonial wanted some simple, classic plant ideas for the front of their home, as well as an easy-care low-growing shrub idea to plant along a newly installed retaining wall. Their previous landscaping included a holly bush that they wanted to keep, along with some hydrangea, hosta, and dwarf spruces that hadn't grown as quickly as expected and looked out of place near their front entrance.
Garden Design Maine suggested:Â
Removing the dwarf spruces on either side of the stairs (which only grow about an inch a year), and replacing them with a variety of hydrangea paniculata that would quickly reach seven feet, offering a refined, balanced and attractive look
A combination of flowering shrubs and low-growing ground cover, with contrasting - yet complementary - foliage colors
Landscaping for the front of the house was installed first (Summer 2022), while the owners decided what they wanted to do along the retaining wall. The design above shows what fully mature plants will look like in a few years.
Garden Design Maine recommended a Japanese maple for the front corner of the house, as depicted in this design, and a bright-foliaged, compact arborvitae along the retaining wall.
Installation took place in Fall 2022, and included Anna's Magic Ball and Japanese Maple Autumn Moon. This image was taken on installation day.
