Anatomy Lesson: Sizzling Border for Warmer Zones

Anatomy Lesson: Sizzling Border for Warmer Zones

This fiery layered border in Seattle, WA (zone 8) is a four season wonder full of steal-me ideas. Anchored by group of conifer shrubs that stay lush and green year round, its filled with all sorts of plants. This includes deciduous and evergreen shrubs and perennials that keep the show going from season to season. Ferns, grasses, and coral bells kick off spring along with the new tender foliage of Japanese maples and birch trees. As the season progresses, shades of green bring a cooling effect. In October foliage morphs into brilliant hot hues glowing in the softer, slanting rays of the fall sun. Even the holly shrubs get into the act sporting clusters of deep-red berries. By winter, bare branches and showy bark act as a placeholder. They're just waiting for the spectacle to start again in spring.

You can do this...start with a few plants for structure (like the Japanese maple, here). Then layer in shrubs that do different things in different seasons.

Need help? Leave a comment below!

Image: Greg Vaughn

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2016-09-29 06:10:00
Nancy De Nyse
Looking for shrubs for a very sunny spot beside a lake.
reply Reply
Lola
Seldom are there recommendations for southern gardens that have high humidity in summer and even into Fall.
reply Reply
Yolanda Miller
any ideas for this look but in southern california, sunset zone 21?
reply Reply
Robbie Bennett
Can Japanese maples be pruned? Mine has grown two long limbs, off-center, and is very bushy. I would like to see it have a better tree form.
reply Reply
Janine Kaloczy
I would love to have a beautiful fall garden. I live in Zone 9 and my backyard faces south. What Japanese maples would work in my yard and give me beautiful fall color?
reply Reply
Carole Jean De Maio.Ph.D.
Seattle is wet; how 'bout the desert? and then add hot springs!!
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