There are many factors to consider when planting trees, shrubs, and perennials around your garage. Foundation plantings should be chosen for their ability to withstand harsh conditions (i.e., wind, heat, reflected heat, de-icing salt), while still providing beauty and privacy. Here are some tips on what to plant on either side of your garage.
What You'll Learn Today
What to Plant on Either Side of The Garage?
The garage is often the first thing visitors see when they come to your home. This area can play a big role in the curb appeal of your property.
When putting together your landscaping plan, it is important to consider what to plant on either side of the garage. You want plants that will not only be attractive but also complement the architecture of your garage.
There are a few key things to keep in mind when selecting plants for this area. First, you want to make sure the plants you select will not obstruct the view of your garage door.
Second, you want to think about how the plants will look as they mature. You do not want them to get too big and block windows or overwhelm the area.
Finally, you want to choose plants that are drought tolerant since they will be in an area that does not get a lot of water. With these things in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best options for planting on either side of garage.
Foundation Plantings for Curb Appeal & Privacy
When planting trees, shrubs, and perennials around your garage, foundation plantings should be chosen for their ability to withstand harsh conditions (i.e., wind, heat, reflected heat, de-icing salt), while still providing beauty and privacy. Here are some tips on what to plant on either side of your garage:
For curb appeal, plant low-growing evergreens or deciduous shrubs in front of the garage doors. Avoid planting trees too close to the house—they can damage foundations and eaves.
Foundation plantings should be at least 2 feet away from the house. For privacy, plan on planting evergreens that will grow to be at least 6 feet tall. These can be planted closer to the house than deciduous shrubs (which lose their leaves in winter).
To provide year-round interest, choose a mix of evergreens and deciduous plants. Deciduous shrubs with colorful berries or interesting bark are good choices. Consider planting vines (such as clematis) on a trellis near the garage door—vines add vertical interest and can help block unwanted views.
Let’s take a closer (and more specific!) look at the options.
Evergreen Trees or Shrubs
One of the best things you can plant on either side of your garage are evergreen trees or shrubs. These plants will provide year-round interest and can help screen unsightly areas from view.
If you have a small space, dwarf evergreen varieties are a great option. Some good choices include false cypress, hemlock, and spruce trees. For shrubs, try boxwood, holly, or yew.
Deciduous Trees
Another good option for planting on either side of the garage is deciduous trees. These trees will provide summer shade and their leaves will change color in the fall, adding autumn interest.
Good choices for deciduous trees include maples, oaks, and dogwoods. Be sure to space these trees out appropriately so they have room to grow.
Perennial Flowers
Perennial flowers are another option for adding color and interest to this area. Begonias, daylilies, and hostas are all good choices that will come back year after year with minimal care.
A word of caution with perennials, though – make sure you choose varieties that are not too aggressive or they may take over the entire bed!
What Should I Plant to Block View?
Does your garage door ruin the curb appeal of your home? Are you looking for a way to cover up that eyesore? If so, you’re in luck! There are a number of plants that can be used to effectively block the view of your garage.
Evergreen Trees
Evergreen trees are an excellent choice for blocking the view of your garage door. They stay green year-round, so they’ll always look nice. Furthermore, they’re relatively easy to care for. Some popular evergreen trees include spruce, fir, and pine.
Deciduous Trees
Deciduous trees are another good option for blocking the view of your garage door. Unlike evergreen trees, they lose their leaves in the fall.
However, they make up for this by boasting beautiful spring and summer foliage. Plus, they provide much-needed shade in the summer months. Popular deciduous trees include oak, maple, and elm.
Shrubs
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, shrubs may be right for you. They don’t require as much care as trees, and they can still provide effective coverage. Popular shrubs include boxwood and holly.
Here’s a video with even more ideas:
What Can I Plant Between Driveways?
Most people don’t give much thought to what they plant between their driveways. However, with a little bit of creativity, you can turn this often ignored space into a beautiful garden that will enhance your home’s curb appeal. Here are five ideas for what to plant between driveways near your garage.
1. Perennials
Perennials are a great option for planting between driveways because they come back year after year and require very little maintenance. Some of our favorite perennials for this purpose include daylilies, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans.
2. Annuals
If you want something that will add a pop of color for just one growing season, annuals are a great option. Begonias, impatiens, and petunias are all beautiful choices for planting between driveways.
3. Trees
Trees not only add beauty to your home but can also provide much-needed shade in the summertime. If you have the space, we recommend planting a small tree such as a dogwood or Japanese maple.
Just be sure to consult with your local nursery or an expert landscaper to find out which trees are best suited for your climate and soil type
4. Shrubs
Shrubs are another great option for adding greenery and interest to this often-ignored part of your yard. We recommend planting evergreens such as boxwoods or hollies as they will stay green year-round and require very little maintenance.
Deciduous shrubs such as hydrangeas or azaleas are also lovely choices and will provide interest in all seasons with their changing leaves and flowers.
5. Edibles
For those who enjoy spending time in the kitchen, consider planting herbs or veggies between your driveways! Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and chives are all wonderful herbs that are easy to grow and maintain.
If you have the space, you could also plant tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants – just be sure to put up a fence or trellis to keep the animals out!
Final Thoughts
No matter what type of plants you choose for your garage foundation planting, make sure they are appropriate for the growing conditions (i.e., sun/shade, soil type) and able to withstand the harsh conditions created by the proximity to the house (i.e., wind, heat, reflected heat, de-icing salt).
With a little planning, you can create beautiful and functional plantings that will add curb appeal and privacy to your home.
