Mastering the Art of Selecting Landscape Shrubs and Bushes

Understanding the Role of Shrubs in Garden Design

A garden designer's approach to selecting shrubs is methodical, focusing on the plants' design functions rather than personal preference alone. This is akin to a manager hiring based on a candidate's qualifications and experience rather than their familiarity. Here are some key "qualifications" to consider when "hiring" your garden's shrubs:

The Elegance of Sheared Hedges

Sheared hedges serve as formal screens or backdrops for focal points. Not all shrubs are cut out for this role; those with small, neat foliage are preferable. Large, coarse leaves can look untidy post-trimming. For instance, Pistacia lentiscus or Myrtus communis are excellent for trimmed hedges due to their fine-textured foliage. Conversely, fast-growing species like Elaeagnus pungens may be harder to maintain, which is why professionals often opt for the more manageable Privet plants (Ligustrum sp.).

The Charm of Informal Screens

For larger spaces, informal screens offer a looser, more natural boundary. These can be larger and faster-growing with coarser leaves than trimmed hedges. Evergreen varieties that recover well from pruning are ideal, such as Viburnum, Myoporum, and Cocculus. Conifers like Juniper are particularly suitable as they generally require little pruning.

The Allure of Flowering Shrubs

Flowering shrubs can serve as both screens and ornamental features. Some, like Plumbago, bloom almost continuously, while others, such as Grevillea and Callistemon, have a more seasonal display. Interestingly, continuous bloomers can sometimes be less favored by homeowners, potentially due to overfamiliarity. These are best placed in larger gardens, while those with decorative fruit add another layer of visual interest.

The Impact of Sculptural and Emphasis Plants

Shrubs with sculptural qualities, like Yucca and Plumeria, or those with colored foliage, can create focal points or subtle emphasis in a garden. However, these should be used sparingly to avoid a cluttered look that can betray an amateur's hand.

Selecting Shrubs with Purpose

When choosing shrubs, consider their intended purpose in your garden's design:

1. Formal Sheared Hedges: Select shrubs with fine-textured, neat foliage.
2. Informal Screens: Opt for larger, evergreen shrubs that handle pruning well.
3. Flowering Shrubs: Decide between continuous bloomers or seasonal showstoppers.
4. Sculptural and Emphasis Plants: Use striking plants judiciously to create visual interest.

Trends and Data in Shrub Selection

Recent trends in garden design emphasize sustainability and native plant use. According to the National Gardening Association, there is a growing preference for native shrubs that support local ecosystems and require less maintenance. Additionally, the American Society of Landscape Architects reports that incorporating edible shrubs like blueberry bushes is becoming popular for their dual function of aesthetics and food production.

In conclusion, selecting the right shrubs and bushes is a critical step in garden design. By thinking like a professional and considering the design functions of each plant, you can create a cohesive and beautiful landscape. Remember to stay informed about the latest horticultural trends and data to make the most informed decisions for your garden.

For more information on garden design principles and plant selection, visit the American Society of Landscape Architects website or explore the resources available at the National Gardening Association website.