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Sensory Gardening

Sensory Gardens: A Guide to Creating an Immersive Experience for All the Senses

by Gregory
written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Sensory Gardens: A Guide for All the Senses

What is a Sensory Garden?

A sensory garden is a space designed to stimulate all five senses: sight, scent, sound, touch, and taste. It’s not just about looking pretty; it’s about creating an immersive experience that engages the mind, body, and spirit.

Benefits of Sensory Gardens

Sensory gardens offer a wide range of benefits, including:

  • Educational spaces for children to connect with nature
  • Restful and restorative spaces for relaxation and recovery
  • Stimulation for people with mental health conditions or cognitive impairments
  • Safe and controlled environments for children with autism to explore their senses
  • Positive emotional responses and improved health and well-being for everyone

Designing a Sensory Garden

When designing a sensory garden, it’s important to consider the specific needs of the people who will be using it. For example, if children will be using the space, make sure the plants they touch are non-toxic. If wheelchair users will be exploring the space, ensure the paths are accessible and the plants are at a suitable height.

Sight

When considering the visual appeal of a sensory garden, think about:

  • Textures and shapes: Choose plants with a range of textures and shapes, from soft and velvety to spiky and prickly.
  • Colors: Select plants with a variety of colors to create a calming or energizing atmosphere.
  • Hard landscaping: Use hardscaping elements like ponds and seating areas to add visual interest.

Scent

Scent is one of the most evocative senses. Fill your garden with aromatic plants like:

  • Sweet peas
  • Chinese lilies
  • Witch hazels
  • Viburnum
  • Herbs

Sound

Create a sensory garden that engages the sense of sound by:

  • Water features: The gentle trickle of water can create a calming atmosphere.
  • Rustling grasses: Plant wildflowers and other pollinator-friendly plants to attract insects and enjoy their buzzing.
  • Bird song: Feed the birds and let their cheerful songs fill your garden.
  • Hard landscaping: Gravel paths and brick walkways can create different sounds when walked on.

Touch

Encourage tactile exploration by including plants with a variety of textures:

  • Silky soft lambs’ ears
  • Leathery sedums
  • Wispy carex

Also consider the materials used for hard landscaping elements like walls, seating areas, and decking. Water features can also provide a wonderful sensory experience.

Taste

Don’t forget about the sense of taste! Grow edible plants like:

  • Vegetables
  • Fruits
  • Herbs

Choosing Plants for a Sensory Garden

When choosing plants for your sensory garden, consider the following tips:

  • Visit your local garden center or nursery.
  • Check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting.

Long-Tail Keyword Examples

  • How to design a sensory garden for children with autism: Sensory gardens can provide a safe and stimulating environment for children with autism to explore their senses.
  • Benefits of a sensory garden for people with mental illness: Sensory gardens can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote relaxation for people with mental health conditions.
  • Creating a sensory garden for the visually impaired: Focus on design aspects that feature touch and sound, and use bold and contrasting colors.

Conclusion

Sensory gardens are a wonderful way to engage all five senses and create a truly immersive experience. By following these tips, you can design a sensory garden that meets the specific needs of your users and provides a range of benefits for years to come.

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Gardening

Unlock the Magic of Scent and Color: A Guide to Creating a Vibrant Garden

by Gregory
written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Scent and Color: Bringing Your Garden to Life

Introduction

Flowers and colors play a vital role in creating a vibrant and inviting garden. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also fill the air with delightful fragrances. This article will explore the best plants to grow for fragrance and color, providing tips on where to grow them to maximize their impact.

Flowers for Fragrance

  • Scented plants for every month: Discover a wide range of plants that release enchanting scents throughout the year.
  • 10 scented climbers to grow: Adorn your pergola, trellis, or arch with fragrant climbers that will fill the air with their sweet aromas.
  • How to grow and care for night-scented stock: Learn the secrets to growing and maintaining this captivating night-bloomer with a heady fragrance.
  • Scented-leaf geraniums to grow: Explore six varieties of scented-leaf geraniums that bring a unique touch to your garden with their aromatic foliage.

Tips for Growing Fragrant Plants:

  • Choose plants that are suited to your climate and growing conditions.
  • Plant in well-drained soil and provide adequate sunlight or shade, depending on the plant’s needs.
  • Consider the height and spread of plants when planning your garden layout to ensure they have enough space to thrive.

Flowers for Color

  • Best flowers to grow for fragrance: Discover a curated list of flowers that not only emit delightful scents but also add vibrant colors to your garden.
  • Plants to match your color scheme: Explore a range of plants that come in a variety of colors, allowing you to create a garden that complements your personal style.
  • Pink flowers for the perfect pink displays: Create a stunning pink oasis with our selection of 20 of the most captivating pink-flowered plants.
  • 12 pink roses to grow: Add elegance and fragrance to your garden with our recommendations for the best pink rose varieties.
  • Nine pink hydrangeas to try: Introduce a touch of whimsy with pink hydrangeas, available in both mophead and lacecap forms.
  • Best yellow tulips to grow: Brighten up your spring garden with a cheerful array of yellow tulips.
  • Plants with yellow flowers: Discover 40 of the most radiant yellow flowers to add a burst of sunshine to your garden.
  • Yellow-flowered dahlias, including single and double varieties: Browse our selection of yellow dahlias, featuring both single and double blooms.
  • Best yellow rose varieties to grow: Enhance your garden with our recommendations for the top yellow rose varieties.
  • Plants with white flowers, for every season: Create a timeless garden with our selection of 40 of the best white-flowered plants.
  • Eight white narcissi to grow: Add a touch of spring splendor with our pick of the best white daffodils.
  • White dahlias in a range of flower types: Explore five captivating white dahlia varieties, each offering a unique bloom shape.
  • Nine white hydrangeas to try: Create a serene atmosphere with white hydrangeas, known for their delicate and elegant blooms.
  • White roses perfect for brightening a shady corner: Illuminate a shady spot in your garden with our recommendations for the best white rose varieties.
  • Brighten up your spring borders with white tulip varieties: Welcome spring with a vibrant display of white tulips.
  • Purple-flowered plants to grow: Introduce a touch of mystery and allure with our selection of the best purple-flowered plants.
  • Purple tulips, from almost pink to nearly black: Explore a range of purple tulips, offering a spectrum of hues from soft pastels to deep, velvety shades.
  • Purple roses to grow: Discover five enchanting purple rose varieties that will add a touch of regal elegance to your garden.

Tips for Growing Colorful Plants:

  • Consider the color wheel when selecting plants to create harmonious color combinations.
  • Plant in groups to create a bold impact and draw attention to specific areas of your garden.
  • Use contrasting colors to create a dynamic and visually appealing effect.

Conclusion

Scent and color are powerful tools for transforming your garden into a sensory paradise. By incorporating fragrant and colorful plants into your landscape, you can create a vibrant and inviting outdoor space that will delight your senses all year round.

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Wildlife Gardening

Wildlife Gardening in September: A Guide to Attracting Birds and Other Animals

by Gregory
written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Wildlife Gardening in September

Introduction

September is a great time to make your garden a haven for wildlife. Many plants are bearing berries or seeds, providing food for birds, insects, and other animals.

Berries

Hawthorn berries and rowan berries are two popular berries that ripen in September. These berries are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, which can help migrating birds recover from their long journey.

Seeds

The seeds of trees and perennials are also an important food source for birds. By leaving seedheads standing, you can provide a nutritious meal for birds and add interest to your garden.

Other Plants

Ivy flowers provide food for pollinators, and Japanese anemones add a burst of color to your garden while providing a late source of food for insects.

Tips for Attracting Wildlife

  • Plant a variety of plants that provide food and shelter for wildlife.
  • Keep your fruiting plants well-watered, especially during dry spells.
  • Leave seedheads standing to provide food for birds.
  • Create a pond or water feature to attract birds and other animals.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can create a wildlife-friendly garden that will be enjoyed by birds, insects, and other animals all season long.

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Gardening

10 Best Shade-Loving Plants for a Thriving Summer Garden

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Shade-Loving Plants for Summer

What to Look For

When choosing shade-loving plants for summer, look for varieties with bright flowers or striking foliage. These plants will be more visible in the shade compared to darker blooms.

Top 10 Shade-Loving Plants for Summer

Here are 10 of the best shade-loving plants for summer:

  1. Astrantias: These come in a range of colors, from white to deep purple-red, and enjoy moist soils in partial shade.
  2. Japanese Painted Fern: This fern unfurls each year to reveal intricate fronds. It prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.
  3. Campanulas: Also known as bellflowers, most campanulas are well-suited to partially shaded positions.
  4. Angelica: This biennial produces large flowerheads that attract pollinators. It prefers damp soil.
  5. Foxgloves: These are quintessential shade plants with tall stems that make them ideal for the back of a border.
  6. Himalayan Maidenhair Fern: With delicate, feathery foliage, this fern prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.
  7. Rodgersia: This plant has large, architectural foliage and white flowers. It’s a great choice for bog gardens.
  8. Clematis x durandii: This climber is ideal for growing in partial shade. Remember to plant deeply and mulch generously.
  9. Hardy Geraniums: There are many hardy geraniums that can grow in shade, including varieties with lighter-colored flowers.
  10. Siberian Irises: These plants form large clumps and produce striking blue flowers in early summer. They prefer moisture-retentive soil in partial shade.

Tips for Growing Shade-Loving Plants

  • Know which areas of your garden are in shade before planting.
  • Choose plants that are suited to the amount of shade in your garden.
  • Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
  • Water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a beautiful and thriving shade garden all summer long.

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Gardening

April Blooms: Vibrant Plants to Brighten Your Spring Garden

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Plants That Bloom Brightly in April: A Guide for Spring Gardens

Introduction

As the days get longer and the air warmer, spring bursts forth in April, bringing with it a vibrant array of blooming plants. From delicate bulbs to showy shrubs, there are countless options to add color and life to your garden in this delightful season.

Top Plants for April Gardens

When selecting plants for your April garden, consider the following recommendations:

  • Amelanchier lamarckii: This small tree boasts clusters of white flowers that resemble cherry blossoms.
  • Convallaria majalis ‘Fernwood Golden Slippers’: Lily of the valley with unique golden-edged leaves.
  • Erysimum cheiri ‘Sunset Purple’: Wallflowers with fragrant, purple flowers.
  • Lamprocapnos spectabilis: Bleeding heart with heart-shaped pink flowers.
  • Magnolia stellata: Star magnolia with fragrant, star-shaped white flowers.
  • Primula beesiana: Candelabra primrose with clusters of yellow flowers.
  • Prunus pendula ‘Pendula Rubra’: Weeping cherry tree with cascading branches and pink flowers.
  • Ribes x beatonii: Flowering currant with clusters of red or white flowers.
  • Tulipa ‘New Design’: Tulip with deep purple and white petals.

April Planting Inspiration

To create a stunning April garden, consider these planting combinations:

  • Five Plant Combinations for April: Combine tulips, cotinus, and euphorbia for a striking contrast of colors and textures.
  • Five Stunning Tulip Combinations: Experiment with different tulip varieties to create eye-catching displays of purple, pink, and orange.
  • Shrubs That Look Good in April: Add depth and structure to your garden with flowering shrubs like Ribes x beatonii.
  • Five Spring Perennials for April: Plant perennials like bleeding heart and candelabra primrose for long-lasting blooms.
  • Spring Pots for Shady Spots: Create pockets of color even in shaded areas with plants like ferns and hostas.
  • Five Scented Plants for April: Fill your garden with sweet fragrances from plants like daphne and hyacinth.

Tips for April Garden Care

To ensure your April garden thrives, follow these tips:

  • Protect from Frost: While spring has arrived, there’s still a risk of frost. Be cautious when moving tender plants outdoors.
  • Deadhead Spent Blooms: Remove faded flowers to encourage new growth and prevent seed production.
  • Fertilize Regularly: Feed your plants a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and blooming.
  • Water Wisely: Water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Control Pests and Diseases: Monitor your plants for pests and diseases, and treat promptly to prevent damage.

Conclusion

April is a time of vibrant beauty in the garden, with a wide variety of plants bursting into bloom. By selecting the right plants and following proper care practices, you can create a stunning and colorful outdoor space to enjoy all month long. Embrace the spirit of spring and transform your garden into a blooming paradise with these April-blooming delights.

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Gardening Techniques

Elevate Your Garden: The Ultimate Guide to Plant Supports and Garden Obelisks

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Best Plant Supports and Garden Obelisks for Your Garden

Introduction

Do you want to add height, structure, and style to your garden? Garden obelisks and plant supports are the perfect solution for supporting climbing plants and herbaceous perennials.

Benefits of Plant Supports

  • Support climbing plants, allowing them to grow upwards without relying on walls or fences.
  • Add vertical elements to your garden, creating a more interesting and dynamic space.
  • Prevent herbaceous perennials from flopping over paths, lawns, or other plants.

Types of Plant Supports

  • Obelisks: Ideal for climbing plants, providing a sturdy structure for them to grow on.
  • Grow-through rings: Support herbaceous plants by providing support to their stems.
  • Plant support netting: Made from biodegradable materials, it can support both productive and ornamental plants.
  • Circular plant supports: Decorative and functional, they come in various heights and diameters to suit different plants.
  • Arc plant supports: Similar to circular supports, they can also be used to define borders and pathways.

Recommended Products

  • Garden Mile 2x Large 2M Black Metal Garden Obelisk: Modern and affordable, perfect for supporting climbing plants.
  • Garden Pride 3x Round Grow Through Plant Support: Supports herbaceous plants, giving them shape and support.
  • Tech-Garden 2x5m Plant Support Netting: Biodegradable and easy to escape from for animals.
  • Harrod Short Circular Plant Support – Rust: Durable and stylish, with a range of sizes to choose from.

Plants for Garden Obelisks

  • Climbing roses
  • Clematis
  • Sweet peas
  • Honeysuckle

Securing Your Obelisk

  1. Choose a secure location.
  2. Concrete anchoring: Dig a hole and fill it with concrete, then place the obelisk’s base in it.
  3. Metal anchoring: Screw metal ground anchors into the ground at the base of the obelisk.
  4. Lattice or trellis: Attach lattice or trellis to the sides of the obelisk for additional support.
  5. Guy wires: For tall structures or windy conditions, attach guy wires to the anchor points of the obelisk.
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Gardening

The Art of Plant Combinations: A Comprehensive Guide for Gardeners

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

The Art of Plant Combinations: A Guide for Gardeners of All Levels

Introduction

Creating beautiful and harmonious plant combinations is a key aspect of garden design. By carefully selecting plants that complement each other in terms of color, shape, texture, size, and scale, you can create a garden that is both visually appealing and inviting.

The Basics of Plant Combinations

When combining plants, there are a few basic principles to keep in mind:

  • Color: Color is one of the most important factors to consider when creating plant combinations. You can use color to create contrast, harmony, or a sense of drama.
  • Shape: The shape of a plant’s leaves and flowers can also be used to create interesting combinations. For example, you can use plants with round leaves to soften the look of plants with spiky leaves.
  • Texture: The texture of a plant’s leaves and stems can add depth and interest to a plant combination. For example, you can use plants with smooth leaves to contrast with plants with fuzzy leaves.
  • Size and Scale: The size and scale of a plant are also important to consider when creating plant combinations. You don’t want to plant a small plant next to a large plant, as the small plant will be overwhelmed.
  • Plant Growth Habits: The growth habits of a plant can also affect how well it combines with other plants. For example, you don’t want to plant a tall, sprawling plant next to a short, compact plant.

Tips for Creating Effective Plant Combinations

Here are a few tips for creating effective plant combinations:

  • Use a variety of plants. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of plants, such as flowers, shrubs, and grasses.
  • Use color to create contrast or harmony. You can use complementary colors to create a sense of contrast, or analogous colors to create a sense of harmony.
  • Use shape and texture to add interest. Plants with different shapes and textures can create a more dynamic and visually appealing combination.
  • Consider the size and scale of plants. Make sure to plant plants that are in proportion to each other.
  • Think about plant growth habits. Choose plants that will grow well together and won’t compete for space or resources.

Some Classic Plant Combinations

Here are a few classic plant combinations that you can try in your own garden:

  • Blue and yellow: This is a classic color combination that is always popular. You can use plants such as bluebells and daffodils to create this combination.
  • Red and white: This is another classic color combination that is both striking and elegant. You can use plants such as roses and lilies to create this combination.
  • Purple and green: This is a more unusual color combination that can create a sense of mystery and intrigue. You can use plants such as lavender and hostas to create this combination.

Conclusion

Creating beautiful and harmonious plant combinations is an art form that takes time and practice. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can create a garden that is both visually appealing and inviting.

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Gardening

Shade Gardening: A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Plants

by Gregory
written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Shade Gardening: A Guide to Choosing the Right Plants

Introduction

Do you have shady areas in your garden? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many gardens have some shade, whether it’s a whole border or just a dark corner.

Choosing the Right Plants for Shade

The key to successful shade gardening is choosing the right plants for the right spot. Here are some things to consider:

  • Type of shade: There are different types of shade, from dappled shade (about 3 hours of sun a day) to deep shade (less than 3 hours of sun a day).
  • Soil conditions: Some plants prefer dry shade, while others prefer damp shade.
  • Plant size and shape: Consider the size and shape of the plants you choose to fit your garden space.

Best Plants for Shade

Here are some of the best plants for different types of shade:

  • Dappled shade: Hostas, ferns, impatiens, begonias
  • Deep shade: Astilbes, bleeding hearts, hellebores, rhododendrons
  • Dry shade: Yews, boxwoods, viburnums, pachysandra
  • Damp shade: Irises, daylilies, ligularia, skunk cabbage

Other Shade Gardening Tips

  • Use evergreens: Evergreens can provide year-round color and interest in shady areas.
  • Plant in groups: Planting in groups creates a more dramatic effect and helps to fill in bare spots.
  • Mulch: Mulch helps to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Conclusion

With the right plants and a little planning, you can create a beautiful and thriving shade garden. So don’t let shade stop you from enjoying your garden!

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Gardening

Evergreen Plants: A Beginner’s Guide to Adding Color and Interest to Your Garden All Year Round

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Evergreen Plants: A Guide for Beginners

What are Evergreens?

Evergreens are plants that keep their leaves all year round, making them a great choice for adding color and interest to your garden in the winter months. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one to suit any garden style.

Benefits of Growing Evergreens

There are many benefits to growing evergreens in your garden, including:

  • They add interest and structure to a bare garden in the winter.
  • They can be used to create hedges or privacy screens.
  • They provide food and shelter for wildlife.
  • They are relatively easy to care for.

Choosing the Right Evergreen Plants

When choosing evergreen plants for your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • The size and shape of the plant.
  • The amount of sunlight the plant needs.
  • The soil conditions in your garden.

Popular Evergreen Plants

Some of the most popular evergreen plants include:

  • Hebe salicifolia: A compact shrub with willow-like leaves and pale lilac flowers.
  • Pittosporum tobira: A glossy-leaved shrub with fragrant white flowers.
  • Rhaphiolepis umbellata: A spherical shrub with white flowers and attractive foliage.
  • Choisya x dewitteana ‘White Dazzler’: A compact shrub with finger-like leaves and fragrant white flowers.
  • Polystichum setiferum: A native British fern with attractive soft fronds.
  • Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’: A shrub with red flower buds and fragrant white flowers.
  • Taxus baccata: A native British conifer that is valuable to wildlife.
  • Pieris ‘Flaming Silver’: A shrub with bright red new growth and white spring flowers.
  • Euonymus japonicus ‘Green Rocket’: A shrub with lush evergreen foliage that grows in an upright habit.
  • Hedera helix: A climber with evergreen leaves and nectar-filled flowers that are beneficial for insects.

Tips for Growing Evergreens

Evergreens are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you can do to help them thrive:

  • Plant them in well-drained soil.
  • Water them regularly, especially during the summer months.
  • Fertilize them once a year in the spring.
  • Prune them as needed to keep them in shape.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of evergreen plants in your garden all year round.

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Gardening

Shrubs for Straight Borders: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Plants

by Gregory
written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Shrubs for Straight Borders

Shrubs are a great way to add beauty, privacy, and structure to your garden. They can be used to create borders, hedges, or simply add interest to a landscape. When choosing shrubs for a straight border, it’s important to consider the following factors:

  • Sun exposure: Some shrubs prefer full sun, while others can tolerate partial shade or even full shade.
  • Soil conditions: Some shrubs prefer well-drained soil, while others can tolerate wet or clay soil.
  • Size and shape: Consider the size and shape of the shrubs you choose to ensure they will fit well in your border.
  • Maintenance: Some shrubs require more maintenance than others, such as pruning or fertilizing.

Low-Maintenance Shrubs for Straight Borders

If you’re looking for low-maintenance shrubs for your straight border, consider the following varieties:

  • Boxwood
  • Yew
  • Holly
  • Privet
  • Juniper

These shrubs are all relatively easy to care for and can tolerate a variety of conditions.

Evergreen Shrubs for Straight Borders

Evergreen shrubs are a great choice for privacy hedges or year-round interest. Some popular evergreen shrubs for straight borders include:

  • Rhododendron
  • Camellia
  • Azalea
  • Laurel
  • Boxwood

These shrubs will provide year-round greenery and can help to block out unwanted views.

Flowering Shrubs for Straight Borders

If you’re looking for shrubs that will add a splash of color to your straight border, consider the following varieties:

  • Hydrangea
  • Rose
  • Spirea
  • Weigela
  • Forsythia

These shrubs will provide beautiful blooms throughout the growing season.

Shrubs for Privacy Hedges

If you’re looking for shrubs to create a privacy hedge, consider the following varieties:

  • Privet
  • Leyland cypress
  • Thuja
  • Yew
  • Holly

These shrubs are all fast-growing and can quickly create a dense hedge.

Shrubs for Sun

If your straight border is in full sun, consider the following shrubs:

  • Butterfly bush
  • Crape myrtle
  • Hibiscus
  • Oleander
  • Rosemary

These shrubs will thrive in full sun and will provide beautiful blooms and foliage.

Shrubs for Shade

If your straight border is in partial shade or full shade, consider the following shrubs:

  • Rhododendron
  • Azalea
  • Camellia
  • Hydrangea
  • Pieris

These shrubs can tolerate shade and will still provide beautiful blooms and foliage.

Shrubs for Wet Soil

If your straight border has wet soil, consider the following shrubs:

  • Dogwood
  • Willow
  • Redbud
  • Buttonbush
  • Alder

These shrubs can tolerate wet soil and will still provide beautiful blooms and foliage.

Shrubs for Dry Soil

If your straight border has dry soil, consider the following shrubs:

  • Yucca
  • Juniper
  • Rosemary
  • Lavender
  • Sage

These shrubs can tolerate dry soil and will still provide beautiful blooms and foliage.

With so many different shrubs to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect ones to create a beautiful and functional straight border in your garden.

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