Foundation shrubs serve as a long-term, permanent framework for your home. In this blog, we are going to provide information on the purpose of foundation shrubs, how to best utilize them, and some of our go-to choices that will best serve your garden’s long-term needs, without impeding on the architectural integrity of your home.
What Are Foundation Shrubs?
As stated above, foundation shrubs are used as a stable framework for your garden and home. Typical foundation shrubs should be chosen with extensive thought and consideration, because root systems and growth habits can have effects on a home’s foundation. So really, the term ”foundation shrub” has two purposes:
- Shrubs that are being planted close to the foundation of your home
- Permanent shrubs that frame your home and garden
How to Choose the Right Foundation Shrubs
There are some important tips to consider when choosing the right foundation shrubs for your home. Some rough guidelines that will help are:
- Work your way down from tallest in the back, to shortest in the front.
- Do not overcrowd—calculate, map, and allow for mature sizing.
- Give yourself an adequate amount of space away from your home’s foundation.
- Ensure your preferred choices do not have invasive root systems.
- Consider lighting needs: full sun, part sun, or full shade—maybe all 3?
- Consider bloom periods and times—aim for rolling visual appeal all season long.
- Think about winter appeal—evergreens can add interest to your garden all year round.
- High maintenance vs. low maintenance—how much time and energy do you want to invest after installation?
Some Common Foundation Shrubs
Boxwood (Buxus)
Boxwoods are a versatile and hardy evergreen that come in a span of varieties, sizes, and shapes—and they are a reliable staple that provide multi-season interest. They can grow in full sun to part sun, and can be planted as a standalone or a hedge. Boxwoods typically have lower growing habits at 2-3 feet tall and wide on average, but there are some larger varieties. Boxwoods have shallow root systems, so they can easily be planted near your foundation without worry.
Rhododendron
This acid loving specimen comes in a wide range of varieties, colors, and sizes, and is renowned for its vibrant, eye-catching blooms. “Rhodos” grow best when protected from wind, prefer full sun to part sun, and grow within a span of 3-6 feet on average. They typically grow in Zones 4-8, and bloom times vary based on variety and climate, but most will begin to bloom in warm weather and continue into summer. Rhododendrons have a shallow and fine root system, so they pose absolutely no threat to your home’s foundation.
Hydrangea
These stunners are well-known for their large, long-lasting, reliable blooms, and they come in so many varieties that you will need to do a bit of research to decide which one(s) suit you best. They grow in Zones 3-9, have shallow root systems, and most types thrive in part sun and some in full sun. Hydrangeas come in tree and shrub form—we love trees near the front door and beside windows to provide some height and interest, and the bush form can go anywhere else that suits.
Dwarf Alberta Spruce
This slow-growing evergreen is a great foundation choice because it provides some height for the back of your garden, but tops out at around 6 feet at maturity, making it an ideal choice that poses no threat to your eavestroughs. Its natural conical shape adds landscape interest. It prefers some wind protection, and grows best in full sun to part sun. Dwarf Alberta Spruce grow best in Zones 3-8, and they do not have aggressive root systems.
Remember that these typical foundation shrub suggestions are only a start. At Plant Perfect we are here to help you make the right choices for you and your home from our wide selection of evergreens and shrubs.