Seeking advice on small, north-facing, front garden

[dirty hands]

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I would reuse the slate after removing it and freshening the area above the border to prevent weeds. The lower area i wouldnt put the slate in but i would use black mulch instead.

The lower area I would plant rhubarb hostas ligularia and or astilbe. I like large leaf plants.


Above maybe hakone. I think it would look good and stay compact so it wouldn't grow above the porch or windows. It looks good in pots too.

It would also brighten the area a little drawing your eye to the other plants.

 

[dirty hands]

This is my favorite fabric for weed control. Weeds will still come up around the edges though like what you have already. If possible put the border material on top of it too. Get at least the 5 OZ. Water passes through freely and its easy to work with.
Put it on top before the slate and plants. Cut an X with a razor blade where you put plants. You dont need as much mulch or slate that way. Just prep the ground first.

I started using 53% glyphosphate for weed control. It was $40 a gallon undiluted. I dont measure it but mix it about 4 to 6 ounce to a gallon. It works better than any other product ive tried. Just use cautiously.

https://www.vevor.com/landscape-fabric-c_10185/20yearweed-barrier-landscape-fabric-3-x-300-fabric-ground-cover-3-24oz-p_010679562050?adp=gmc&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_id=23748925424&ad_group=193130654857&ad_id=805068895410&utm_term=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23748925424&gclid=CjwKCAjwyOzSBhBTEiwAmxvJ-if6gVwYvdPltjf8SmGpCJR-VBLXTvO_9EUgegKlVFOWhsijuJFycBoCQ-0QAvD_BwE

 

[Sheal]

Just a reminder...in post #1 Woods was asking for shrub suggestions.

 

[dirty hands]

He did ask for alternative ideas too.
I think shrubs would get too big and hide the porch. Just what I see from the pictures and what I thought might look good there. Keep it low because there is already big bushes in front. It will give the porch a more open feeling instead of crowding it. Probably less bugs in the summer too.

Just my take on it.

 

[Esther Knapicius]

I have one rose shrub, been in shade for years. BUT you have to do research. The shrub said two words in the description----Vigorous and can handle shade. While over the years it has not gotten large, maintains a small demeanor, It does produce about 5 flowers every year. Looks pretty behind the blue tall hosta. its ruffly 3 foot tall and wide.