Spring Fever

Well, it's officially Spring and I'm looking for ideas to further enhance the curb appeal of the house. The flower bed in front of the house is currently bare, except for three hosta plants. The hostas look bland in the front garden and frankly don't look all that healthy. I think they could use more shade.

I think my three hostas might do better if I relocate them to the right side if my front steps, beneath my neighbors Japanese Maple. Once my front flower bed is cleared of hostas, I'm free to fill it with some colorful perennials and annuals.


Here is an inspiration photo of a Japanese Maple with hostas and mulch beneath. I think this will be an attractive and low maintenance improvement to the south side of the front steps.

Here's a mock up for the hosta and mulch location...

I've been spending some time on the Better Homes and Garden (BHG.com) website. It has some great garden plans for a variety of situations. I've been looking at plans on this site and thinking of ways to modify it for my small flower bed. I love the idea of tall grasses mixed with some colorful perennials. But, as this is my first "real" garden, I want it to be easy to maintain.

I love the ornamental grasses in this one. Of course, my garden will be about one quarter if its size.

Stay tuned for after pics.