Need ideas for low-maintenance full sun plants.
We just replaced our 42-yr-old subdivision sign. It had shrubs all around it but they were too tall and full of weeds. The man who was tasked with cutting them much lower botched it and after this photo was taken, he dug up what little was left. Now it looks very barren. This sign is smaller than the old one so doesn't fill the space the previous one did. It's in full sun.
We want to plant something that's VERY low-maintenance on the front and back side (both show from the road) that will look nice all year long. Maybe some shrubs that won't grow taller than about 3.5 ft would work well. Flowers would be pretty, but only part of the year and would need more care, so we think shrubs of some kind -- maybe with colorful foliage or interesting leaves, etc. -- would do the trick. This is in metro Atlanta.
Also, we have only a small amt to spend so we need to consider the cost. Any suggestions, bearing in mind the stipulations? Once the wood has dried sufficiently (in the spring), we're going to seal the wood and leave the natural color.
Here's a link form the University of Georgia Extension. It looks like Boxwoods are recommended. Take a look for more ideas:
https://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail.html?number=B625&title=Landscape%20Plants%20for%20Georgia#title7
Sounds like you might be looking for an evergreen shrub so you have year round foliage.
https://www.gardendesign.com/shrubs/evergreen.html
If you are looking for fast growing shrubs:
https://www.gardenloversclub.com/plant-finder/shrubs/privacy-shrubs/
Blooming shrubs:
https://www.countryliving.com/gardening/garden-ideas/g25414973/best-flowering-shrubs/
What about hosta. Many varieties, and colors, no maintenance except cut dead leaves off in the fall.
How about a trip to your local nursery and see what they recommend? They know what will work in you area and can come up with some reasonable suggestions.
Geraniums in most any color would look great or even an assortment of colors would work. They love sunshine and don't take too much care.
Hi Louise, here re a couple of ideas
‘Ruby’ Loropetalum
Every commercial retail space needs some great foundation plants that offer good, solid coverage.
Enter ‘Ruby’ loropetalum. This sun-loving shrub is possibly one of the smallest of the loropetalum varieties with a compact, rounded form that grows 4 feet tall and 4 feet wide but can be pruned shorter.
Its unusual clusters of pink fringe flowers bloom year-round, accompanying the shiny, ruby red young leaves. This brilliant color can certainly add variety and pizazz to the landscape.
https://medium.com/@FastTreeRemovalServicesAtlanta/6-colorful-plants-trees-and-shrubs-for-your-atlanta-ga-fall-yard-aa0123f8a2b3
Hi Louise, here's a few beautiful ones you can plant under your sign - https://www.fromhousetohome.com/garden/full-sun-perennials/
Hello,
I would tend to go to the Garden Centre or Look up in a book for low growing evergreen shrubs that flower. You could surround the area with Large rocks, or plant up Climbing plants either side of the upright poles and let them scramble up. Best wishes.
Here's a post that might help https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/gardens/planting-and-maintenance/low-maintenance-plants-for-easy-landscaping-pictures
Hello. Where are you located?
That would determine the best plant materials to suggest. Most plants success depend on their hardness to geographic planting zones presenting weather conditions. This information could give us more clue to give you the best suggestions for plant success!
Additionally for the best local professional advice
I would highly suggest contacting your cooperative extension. These offices are manned by volunteer master gardeners on site there waiting to answer the communities questions that know your local situation quite well.
Master gardeners are required to volunteer back designated hours ( plus continuing education) each year to maintain MG certification -this community outreach and education is their goal.
Best wishes in your gardening and landscaping adventures!
IMO, most shrubs are not low maintenance. They have to be clipped and shaped to look attractive and to keep them small, also watered, and weeded.
I am wondering how Agave plants might grow in your climate? They are almost maintenance-free, as they do not require any clipping or pruning, need very little water, are deer proof, and generally grow fast.
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/q-blue-agave-in-georgia-1641372
Blue Agave in Georgia?
We use ornamental grasses that grow about 3 feet and very low maintenance https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/13-terrific-tall-grasses-pictures
Have you checked with the local nursery? They can usually give you some great suggestions for your zone.
Perhaps some type of Juniper that will grow in your area. They will need yearly trimming with minimal water. Good luck
Here are 15 great ideas for you: https://www.fromhousetohome.com/garden/full-sun-perennials/