Shrubs can be used in a border planting scheme either on their own, or as part of a mixed border. When using them on their own, you must make sure that you select a variety of different plants to supply you with a succession of appealing colours and textures throughout the year. This can be provided by foliage, flowers, berries, or simply with an interesting shape.

Mixed Borders

Whilst a pure shrub border can provide much interest, you may find that the effect of a mixed border more visually pleasing. The shrubs may be used to supply a background framework of long-term interest, supported by a succession of complementary herbaceous plants. Although it is often more time-consuming to manage a mixed border as the different plants have varying requirements, it remains one of the most effective ways of bringing together a huge variety of different plant qualities.

Planning a Border

Although some shrubs are considered long-term plants, others tend to mature and fade quickly. Take this into account when planning your border so that the long-term shrubs are spaced out with more transitory planting. This means that the established shrubs have room to spread, without the need for severe pruning or thinning.

Ground cover plants may be added to provide interest whilst the shrubs mature, or alternatively, a layer of bark chippings may be applied as a mulch. This will suppress weeds, retain moisture and hide any bare patches in the planting.