New home

[Darrell]

i just bought this home in Arkansas, Zone 7b. The home faces north. I want to completely overhaul the current scheme. It's too formal to my liking (too manicured). I would like to put in some lorepetulum varieties, 'Sunshine' ligustrum, and other stuff. I'm doing my research and gathering ideas. That's where you come in! Any suggestions would be great!

 

[LIcenter]

I've been on a Viburnum kick lately. Check out this site, and hope you drool like I am. Also check out some of the other ideas close to the bottom of the page.

http://www.finegardening.com/viburnums-are-versatile-shrubs

Edit: Please excuse my manners in not wishing you a warm welcome.

 

[marlingardener]

Lovely home! I agree--the landscaping looks as if they had someone come in to trim/prune/regiment the shrubbery. May I suggest that you wait a full season before changing or removing anything? It is surprising what will come up on its own or take its natural form if not trimmed. Waiting will also give you time to think about colors, textures and forms that you want.
Welcome to GF, and we'll give suggestions if asked (or not!) and enjoy your progress!

 

[Beth_B]

Welcome! Love that big porch. I agree the current landscape "design" is unimaginative and stilted...needs more beds, native plants of differing heights, more interest and color for sure.

 

[Becky]

Welcome to the forum! Your new house is lovely, congratulations

I agree that some flower beds to break up the formal lines would be a good idea. Have you thought about planting native plants?

http://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/in-the-garden/native-plants.aspx

 

[DeborahJane]

Lovely new home darrell and what an exciting project. Strappy plants between them all would soften the look, either just greenery or even salvias would add some color and variety and then a garden bed could "ooze" out from the end of the footpath maybe. Good luck with it and keep us posted.

 

[Fernsdaddy]

Welcome to the forum, congratulations on your new home,give it time and see what it does next spring the you can give it your own touch.

 

[Esther Knapicius]

Congrats to your new home. Advice --take your time. make lists, make sure the right zone, the right place. Haste makes waste. Chose from the head not the heart. Research the plant. If your planting scented plants/shrubs --how does the wind blow. do you want to provide food for birds, and or attract butterflies. do you want 4 season plants/shrubs or three season (both).

also, most important, the soil. good soil is half the battle for success and saving money.