Question

Front yard   QUESTION: Hello Jonathan,

Thank you for taking the time to try and help me. I live in a wooded area (zone 8/9).  I would like to plant two queen palm trees on both sides of my front porch.  Do you think that it would be okay planting them there?  Additionally, I want to plant some bushes in front of the porch.  Any suggestions?  I like the dwarf bushes.  As you can see from my photo, my front yard needs a lot of help.  :-)

Thank you and have a Happy Easter,
Anne


ANSWER: Hello Anne

Although I am not necesarily a fan of palm trees, I do feel that they would look fine either side of the porch. I assume that the climate is warm enough where you area to grow them. If you live in a warm climate then try some of the plants listed on my website www.italiangardendesign.com

Good luck and Happy Easter to you too!

Best

Jonathan

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello again Jonathan,

Again, thank you for your help.  If not a palm tree, what kind of tree would you plant there?  Would you even plant a tree (if so, what kind) or if not, what would you suggest I do?

...Anne

Answer
Hello again Anne

Quite honestly I am very keen on establishing a strong visual structure within a garden space, particularly near gates, entrances etc.

Therefore, I would choose a plant that can be clipped into a large, conical shape. This would provide you with an elegant visual statement that underlies the symmetry of the entrance (porch) area.

Go for bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) or Holm oak (Quercus ilex). For dwarf bushes take a look at Buxus sempervirens, Taxus baccata and Viburnum tinus. These can all be shaped into spherical shapes and can be placed around the garden to provide structure. The maintenance involved is minimal and the palm trees would have needed their dead leaves cleaning annually anyway.

Hope that's been useful Anne.

Regards

Jonathan