Filling your garden space effectively involves strategic planning and planting to create a lush, inviting environment.
Quick Ways to Fill Empty Spots
One effective method, particularly for edges or bare areas, is to use plants that provide substantial volume quickly.
Tall shrubs and large, flowering bushes can quickly fill in an empty edge. These plants offer significant visual impact and structure, making an empty space feel cultivated rapidly. Consider placing a garden bench nearby to create a relaxing spot from which to enjoy the view of your gorgeously cultivated plants.
Using Shrubs and Bushes
- Selecting the Right Plants: Choose varieties suited to your climate (USDA Hardiness Zone), soil type, and the amount of sunlight the area receives.
- Considering Mature Size: Look up the mature height and spread of the shrubs and bushes to ensure they won't outgrow the space too quickly or require constant pruning.
- Placement: Use taller options at the back of a border or bed, stepping down to smaller plants towards the front for a layered look that maximizes space utilization and visual depth.
Other Methods for Filling Garden Space
Beyond large shrubs, there are many other ways to fill various types of garden spaces:
- Ground Cover: For large, flat areas where you don't want tall plants, ground covers like vinca, creeping thyme, or sedum can quickly spread and cover bare soil, suppressing weeds and adding texture.
- Perennials: Plants that return year after year can fill beds and borders with seasonal color and foliage. Choose a mix of early, mid, and late-season bloomers for continuous interest.
- Annuals: Perfect for adding splashes of color and filling gaps in beds while waiting for slower-growing plants to mature. They provide instant impact throughout a single growing season.
- Trees: While a longer-term solution, appropriately sized trees can fill vertical space, provide shade, and serve as focal points in larger garden areas.
- Container Gardening: Pots and containers are versatile fillers for patios, decks, or bare spots in beds. You can plant a mix of annuals, perennials, or even small shrubs in containers.
Combining Elements
A dynamic garden often combines several types of plants and elements.
| Plant Type | Primary Use for Filling Space | Growth Habit |
|---|---|---|
| Tall Shrubs & Bushes | Edges, back of beds, creating structure | Dense, large volume |
| Ground Cover | Large flat areas, slopes, between stepping stones | Spreading, low-growing |
| Perennials | Beds, borders, continuous interest | Varies; return annually |
| Annuals | Quick color, filling temporary gaps | Bloom for one season |
| Small Trees | Vertical space, focal points, shade | Upright, provides canopy/height |
By strategically selecting and placing plants based on their size, growth habit, and desired effect, you can efficiently and beautifully fill your garden space.
