Question
QUESTION: We currently added on a front porch to our home which now gives us only approx. 8 ft from the porch to the curb to plant grass, shrubs and flowers.  We live in the northeast one block from the beach and need some suggestions on what to plant.  We would like to keep the "beach feel" along with adding some color to the front of the home.  Any suggestions would be helpful.
ANSWER: My suggestion would be to not plant grass and plant trees, shrubs, and perennials. If you have only 8' that is not much to work with.  Could you tell me where you are located.  What state?  It will help me know what zone you are in, which will determine what plants you can plant.

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QUESTION: We live in NY (the south shore of Queens)

Answer
You can plant just about anything the can be planted in zone 6.  I would suggest planting a variety like ornamental grasses, tall perennials and short perennials, evergreen shrubs (dwarf blue spruce), and a crape myrtle.
Have fun with this and let your creativity thrive.

Bud Christmann