Hi all
I've been concentrating heavily on my plot and growing edibles for the last few years and have neglected my garden somewhat - apart from the kitchen garden area at the back which has my fruit and veg 'extras'in it!
I'm really hopeless at non edible stuff and need advice/recommendations on how to fill a space just vacated by an elderly shrub. What can I put in its place to fill a 5' gap...something that grows to between 5-6ft and has 'interesting' foliage colour and with scented flowers or blossom.
All suggestions gratefully received!
Plottie
An asparagus bed !! Sorry I just couldn't resist. I am useless at non edibles too XX Jeannine
we've got a beautiful philadelphus, or mock orange, about 3'6", lime green leaves, fantastically scented flowers soon,
it depends on if you want , a perennial or something you can change..why not plant an apple tree ;D
not very good on non edibles, either ;D
What about a Ceanothus? not much of a pong, but makes up for that with the flowers, and it's evergreen, or a good old Hebe- lots to choose from.
Daphne, now there's a lovely perfume, or a Mahonia even. Or how about a Weigela?. I have a similar problem Plottie, and as I have all of these I'm going for a self pollinating Cox apple tree. ;D
Sweet Box... non descript in Summer but a beautiful fragrance in winter/ea. spring
;D
Why not have a play with the RHS Plant Selector - you don't have to be a member, but you get more responses if you are.
http://www.rhs.org.uk/rhsplantselector/default.aspx
Or the BBC Plant Finder http://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/plants/plant_finder/index.shtml.
I'm sure it'll inspire you.
What's the soil? How much sun? How about a nice rose - either a shrub or climber? Some can tolerate a bit of shade and/or crap soil.. at least then you get flowers for cutting and hips for jam.
I'm not great with shrubs.. don't particularly have the patience. I just end up shoving big edibles or roses in instead.
A hebe or two would be nice. I saw a gorgeous plant the other day. After a bit of hunting i have identified it as Ajuga http://www.greenwoodnursery.com/page.cfm/328 (http://www.greenwoodnursery.com/page.cfm/328)
It's from the mint family apparently and would fill 5' quite easily! It's flowers are great ad it has lovely leaves.
Why not just treat yourself to an arbour seat in that space ? Plant Jasmine and a climbing rose and a couple of clematis to grow up and perfume the air around you . OR "Plant "a bird table there instead ?
Rohaise x
What about a philadelphus coronarius variegatus - White flowers, very fragrant, white and green leaves. Needs a spot that's not too exposed and not too dry or the leaves will brown at the edges.
For scent in early spring, try Elaeagnus x ebbingei 'Gilt Edge'.
Thamks to all for those suggestions....having checked them out on the BBC plant finder (thanks slug_killer) I'm off to the garden centre armed with my list
Plottie :) :)