North Side Of House Foundation Plants

A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Foundation Plants for the North Side of Your House

When it comes to landscaping your home, the foundation plants play a crucial role in framing the house and creating a cohesive design. For the north side of your house, where sunlight is limited, it's essential to select plants that thrive in shady conditions while enhancing the overall aesthetics. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect foundation plants for the north side of your house:

Factors to Consider

Before selecting foundation plants, consider the following factors:

The amount of sunlight the area receives
The size and shape of the planting space
The soil conditions
The height and spread of the plants
The overall style and architecture of your home

Recommended Foundation Plants

Here are some of the best foundation plants for the north side of a house:

Hostas: Shade-loving perennials with foliage in various colors and textures
Astilbes: Graceful plants with showy flower plumes in pink, white, or purple
Ferns: Lush foliage plants that add depth and texture to shady areas
Bergenia: Evergreen groundcovers with attractive foliage and spring blooms
Hellebores: Winter-blooming plants with cup-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple
Hydrangeas: Showy shrubs with large flower clusters in pink, blue, or white (depending on soil pH)
Rhododendrons: Evergreen shrubs with glossy leaves and vibrant blooms in spring
Japanese maples: Deciduous trees with striking foliage that turns vibrant shades in fall

Planting and Maintenance

Once you've selected your foundation plants, it's crucial to plant them properly and provide ongoing care. Here are some tips:

Amend the soil with compost or peat to improve drainage and fertility.
Dig planting holes twice as wide as the root ball of the plant.
Set the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove air pockets.
Water deeply after planting and regularly thereafter, especially during dry spells.
Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize according to the specific requirements of the plant species.

Conclusion

By carefully selecting and planting foundation plants that thrive in shady conditions, you can create a beautiful and inviting landscape on the north side of your house. These plants will enhance the curb appeal of your home while providing year-round interest and greenery. Remember to consider the unique characteristics of your property and the style of your home to make informed plant choices that complement the overall design.