The side yard, which has the function of connecting the garden with backyard, seldom gets priority, probably because of its size and position. Often it is just another patch with some grass growing. While the front and backyards get the attention, the side yard is woefully neglected and can also look unsightly in some cases. In many cases because of the narrow space, the tendency is to lay concrete and forget all about it.

But some master gardeners have devised and discovered innovative ways to use this piece of land and landscape it. Since the side yard is not more than 10 feet wide and is bounded by walls and fences, the area receives limited sunshine. You can create a panel for privacy using shade loving vines on bamboo screens. Alternatively you can plant bougainvillea of different colors and take it all the way up on a screen so that it forms a beautiful canopy

You can use low shrubs such as blue star creeper or creeping thyme as groundcover and use stepping stones so that the plants are not trampled on. On the sides you can use hibiscus, plumbago, and other annual flowers which can turn the dull side-yard into a riot of colors. For the areas in shade and semi-shade, you can plant heliotrope, sweet bay, and star jasmine. Impatiens, a shade loving annual can brighten up the darkest corners. The use of variegated plants, add variety to the foliage. There are several variegated types of begonia which can be used in these areas.

If you are disturbed by the traffic, a good way to drown the noise is by adding a fountain. Water features bring out a delightful sound which is very soothing for frayed nerves. You can also use a piece of sculpture between a bed of bold and shapely leaves of hostas. Keep an area free for some seating and you have your own private sanctuary ready.

If you like garden design....These pages might also interest you:

Allium Directory, Amaryllis Directory, Begonia Directory, Crocus Directory, Daffodils Directory, Dahlia Directory, Hyacinth Directory, Iris Directory, Lily Directory, Tulip Directory

Also See:

Allergy Free Garden Design, Choosing Color Combo,Desinging with Seasonal Flowers, Design an English Garden, Garden Design Project, Gardening in Small Spaces, Complete Garden Makeover, Napa Garden Design, Favorite Plants for Landscaping, Perk Up a Flower Bed, Natural Garden Design, Using Pathways in a Garden, Design a White Wonder Gardens, Your Own Outdoor Coffee House, Designing to reduce noise, Designer Lanscape ideas, Do it Yourself Lanscape Design, Garden Design Foundations, Keeping Your Garden Size in Check, Gardening With Little Space, Outside the Box Landscape Design, Side Yard Design Ideas, Stone Patio Design, Theme Gardening, Trends in Landscape Design, What to Plant on a Slope, Winning Landscape Design