JANAKI’S GARDEN
CONCEPT DESIGN:
The proposed shade garden design aims to create a serene and relaxing atmosphere beneath the existing birch trees.
The semi-circular garden, with a total area of approximately (assumed) 80 square feet, will feature a palette of greens, blues, rust, pinks, and purples, complementing the natural surroundings and existing elements.
The design will incorporate the mature birch trees, rocks, boulders, and the multi-tiered fountain, which serve as focal points and add texture to the landscape.
A selection of shade-loving plants, including ornamental grasses, shrubs, and perennials, will be chosen to provide varied foliage textures and colors throughout the seasons.
The plantings will be designed to accommodate the changing light conditions created by the birch trees, which provide dappled shade during the growing season and more sun exposure in the fall and winter.
There is no proposed hardscaping unless there is a request.
Existing elements, such as the fountain and any healthy plants that align with the design style, will be integrated into the new plan to maximize the budget.
The end result will be a tranquil and visually appealing shade garden that offers year-round interest, integrates seamlessly with the existing features, and provides a relaxing space for the client to enjoy within the compact 80 (assumed)square foot area.
SITE PLAN:
LAYOUT:
• Centerpiece: Three birch trees (Betula species) aligned on the flat side of the half-circle. Their exposed roots can add a dramatic natural feature.
• Shape: The garden forms a semi-circle with the birch trees at the straight edge. We will incorporate a mix of lower growing plants that taper down from the height of the birches to create a smooth gradient.
SOIL PREPARATION:
• Start by aerating the soil to break up compaction. This can be done with a garden fork or an aerator. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 6-12 inches to allow roots to penetrate more easily.
• It’s advisable to conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Moss often indicates acidity and poor nutrient content. Adjust the soil pH according to the needs of your plants; most of your selected plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6-7).
• Birches prefer well-drained, fertile soil. The compacted soil will have to be amended with organic matter after aerating it 6-12 inches deep without disturbing the roots.
• Use Lime if necessary: If the soil is very acidic (which is likely given the presence of moss), applying garden lime can help raise the pH. Follow the recommendations from your soil test regarding the amount to use.
• Hand weeding of plants that are not needed while keeping some of the more desirable/existing plants. I recommend retaining some of the healthier plantings like the hellebore and the ferns.
• Removal of the citrus plant to a more suitable place or get it potted up.
PLANTING DESIGN
1. UNDERSTORY PLANTS:
• Hostas: Planted in clusters for lush, leafy groundcover; ideal for shade under the birch trees.
• Ferns (e.g., Ostrich Fern): Adds texture and thrives in shady conditions.
• Hellebores: Flowers early and provide color during late winter and early spring.
2. BACK GROUND PLANTS:
• Hydrangeas: These can provide a backdrop of color and texture beneath the height of the birches.
• Azaleas: Offers bright flowers in spring and good foliage through the summer.
• Lavender: Does not need a lot of feeding and will thrive in dry conditions. Adds colour and height. Will invite pollinators.
3. FOREGROUND PLANTS:
• Lavender: Adds fragrance and attracts pollinators, thriving in full sun along the outer edge of the semi-circle. A different variety of shorter lavender can be planted up front.
• Yarrow: Drought tolerant. White blooms and interesting foliage.
• Statice: Deep blue flowers that can be used in wreaths, dried flower arrangements and bouquets.
• Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’: Provides structure and late-season blooms. Bright pink flowers.
• Ornamental grasses (like Festuca or Pennisetum): Create a soft border and movement at the edge of the planting bed.
PLANTING PLAN:
• Back Layer: Along the flat edge, behind the birches, plant the Hydrangeas, Lavender and Azaleas to fill in height beneath the trees and provide seasonal color.
• Middle Layer: Include Hostas, Ferns, and Hellebores directly under and around the birch trees where shade dominates.
• Front Layer: Towards the rounded edge of the semi-circle, plant Lavender, Sedum, and ornamental grasses to catch more sunlight and create an appealing edge.
Plantings will be in 3s or in drifts forming wavy lines of vision.
MAINTENANCE TIPS:
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and provide a clean appearance. Too much mulch is not recommended near the exposed roots.
• Watering: Birch trees and understory plants will require regular watering, especially in dry conditions.
• Pruning: Prune the birch trees if necessary to maintain health and structure, and cut back perennials and grasses in late winter or early spring.
• Weeding: As required seasonally
Plant selection depends on availability.
ADDITIONAL PLANT SUGGESTIONS:
Several shade-tolerant plants are known for their seasonal foliage changes, providing visual interest throughout the year. Here’s a list of some(depending on availability) that can add dynamic color and texture to shaded garden areas:
1. Azaleas/Rhododendrons are acid loving, flowering shrubs. A risky edible plant choice would be Blueberries. They love sunlight and it can be challenging under the birches, but if it’s possible to tuck in a few where there is sun, they can offer an interesting texture and is an edible plant choice. It will years to get the blueberries to fruit if the soil/sun isn’t suitable. So it’s a risky gamble, but worth it if you like blueberries
2. Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): Besides its beautiful blooms, the oakleaf hydrangea features foliage that changes color in the fall, turning from green to rich shades of red, bronze, and purple.
3. Hostas: Known primarily for their foliage, hostas have leaves that can change from bright greens in spring to deeper hues in summer, and some may yellow slightly in the fall.
4. Coral Bells (Heuchera): These plants are valued for their ever-changing foliage, available in colors ranging from lime green to deep burgundy. Some varieties also change tones with the seasons.
5. Astilbe: While astilbe is more known for its feathery, colorful blooms, its foliage also offers seasonal interest, with leaves that can turn from deep green to a rich bronze in the fall
6. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia): A vigorous vine that’s perfect for shady spots, Virginia creeper features green leaves throughout spring and summer that turn to brilliant red in the fall. (Alternatively: Japanese Honeysuckle over the fence. Or Pink Jasmine.)
7. Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum): This plant’s gracefully arching stems bear green leaves that turn a golden yellow in autumn, providing a striking contrast to the darker areas of a shade garden.
8. Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra): Especially the varieties like 'Aureola' or 'All Gold', these grasses provide a bright, chartreuse color in spring and summer, turning to hues of orange and red in the fall.
9. Ajuga, also known as Bugleweed, is a versatile and attractive perennial that makes for an excellent ground cover. It is a low-growing plant that features lush foliage in various shades of green and purple, along with beautiful spikes of vibrant blue, pink, or white flowers.
Other suggestions: lamb’s quarters, columbine, siskiyou blue fescue.
GENERAL GUIDELINES:
MAINTENANCE PLAN:
To address compacted soil with moss, and prepare it for your new garden design, you'll need to take several steps to improve soil structure and fertility. This will also help cater to the nutrient requirements of your chosen plants, which can vary, but I'll provide a unified approach that should benefit all.
After following Soil Preparation Steps:
Nutrient Requirements
Birch Trees: Generally require a balanced fertilizer with a ratio close to 10-10-10 (NPK), but they are not heavy feeders.
Hostas and Ferns: Benefit from soils rich in organic matter, which provides the nutrients they need.
Hydrangeas and Azaleas: Like birch trees, they prefer slightly acidic soil and can benefit from fertilizers formulated for acid-loving plants.
Lavender and Ornamental Grasses: Require well-draining soil and minimal fertilization; too much nutrient, especially nitrogen, can inhibit flowering in lavender and make ornamental grasses too lush.
UNIFIED SOIL MANAGEMENT PLAN:
To cater to the mixed needs:
1. Balanced Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support growth across different plant types. You can supplement this with an acid-forming fertilizer where needed (around hydrangeas and azaleas).
2. Top-Dressing: Annually add a layer of compost around the plants to continuously improve soil quality and provide nutrients.
3. Watering: Ensure consistent watering, especially in the first few years as plants establish. Water deeply at the roots rather than frequent shallow waterings.
4. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch (like bark chips) around the plants annually. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and add organic matter as it decomposes.
5. Pruning: Prune hydrangeas and birch trees to maintain shape and health. Deadhead spent blooms and cut back ornamental grasses in late winter or early spring.
6. Weed Control: Regular weeding will be necessary, especially in the early stages of garden development. Mulch helps, but keep an eye out for invasive species.
ADDITIONALLY:
FRONT GARDEN:
Soil Aeration
Soil Testing and Amendment
Mulch and/or compost application
Removal and potting of Citrus trees.
Persimmon Tree planting
Shishigara Maple
Understory landscaping (recommended: Lavender, Lemon Verbena, Rose Geranium)
Urn pots annuals planting
Camellia
BACK YARD:
Soil Aeration
Soil Testing and Amendment
Mulch and/or compost application
Plant/Tree removals
Bougainvillea pruning + rejuvenation
Wisteria planting( suggestion)
Fruit tree planting (suggestion)
Vegetable garden optimization
IRRIGATION
After planting is over.
