Take a little-used space and turn it into a private, relaxing domain.
Create a Path
Create an inviting bridge between the front and back with a well-landscaped limestone path.
On the right, rain barrels put the oft-overlooked space to work.
Create Drama
Side yards don’t have to be plain.
Here, black bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra) creates a beautiful screen and casts lovely filtered shade.
It makes a fantastic textural contrast to steel planters filled with asparagus fern.
While it’s beautiful, the combination is also ultra-low maintenance.
Test Garden Tip:If you plant bamboo, grab the bang out carefully.
Clumping types, such as black bamboo, spread more slowly than aggressive “running” types.
Decorate with Containers
Spatter your side yard with containers if space is at a premium.
If you securely attach them to walls, containers provide a wealth of color and texture.
Plus the right pots serve as works of art by themselves.
Test Garden Tip:Know exactly how much sun your area gets before setting out containers.
Place new plants in holding beds until you decide where to put them or to start delicate new plants.
Test Garden Tip:Pay special attention to your side yard’s floor.
The paving can create as much interest as any of the plantings.
Test Garden Tip:For extra privacy, plant strategically to block the view from a neighbor’s windows.
Add Some Style
Give your side yard a distinct feel from the rest of your landscape.
Note: Most fruits and veggies need at least eight hours of direct sun a day.
Give yourself a secret, shady place to cool off and escape the hot summer sun.
Make a path, then plant around it with shade-loving plants suited to your area.
Test Garden Tip:Use columnar trees to add shade and height without losing precious horizontal space.
Make a Grand Entrance
A narrow side yard is a great place for a pergola.
Plus, it makes an attractive landscape feature in dry weather.
