Driveway Landscaping: A Beginner’s Guide
Driveway landscaping is a unique type of landscaping that requires special considerations due to the specific challenges posed by driveways. By following a few key tips, you can create a beautiful and functional driveway landscape that will enhance your home’s curb appeal and provide years of enjoyment.
Key Considerations for Driveway Landscaping
Visibility
One of the most important considerations for driveway landscaping is visibility. Tall plants can obstruct the view of oncoming traffic, creating a safety hazard. When choosing plants for your driveway, be sure to consider their mature height and choose varieties that will not block your line of sight.
Water Runoff
Driveways are often paved with impermeable materials, which means that water cannot soak into the ground. This can lead to water runoff, which can damage plants and erode the soil. When choosing plants for your driveway, opt for varieties that can tolerate wet conditions and have strong root systems that will help to anchor them in the soil.
Spread
Some plants, such as groundcovers and creeping plants, can spread quickly and become invasive. This can be a problem in driveway landscaping, as these plants can spread into the driveway itself and create a tripping hazard. Choose plants that stay where you put them or that spread very slowly.
The Best Plants for Driveways
Now that you know what to look for when choosing plants for your driveway, here are a few good examples:
Low-Growing Annuals
Low-growing annuals are a great choice for driveways because they are easy to care for and come in a wide variety of colors and sizes. Some good options include:
- Dahlias
- Zinnias
- Geraniums
- Marigolds
Flowering Herbs
Flowering herbs are another good option for driveways because they are both beautiful and functional. Some good choices include:
- Sage
- Rosemary
- Lavender
Short Shrubs
Short shrubs are a good choice for driveways because they provide visual interest without blocking the view. Some good choices include:
- Korean boxwood
- Lavender cotton
Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses are a great choice for driveways because they are low-maintenance and add a touch of elegance. Some good choices include:
- Japanese aralia
- Feather reed grass
- Blue fescue
Tips for Choosing the Right Plants for Your Driveway
In addition to the general considerations discussed above, there are a few other things to keep in mind when choosing plants for your driveway:
- Climate: Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and will thrive in the conditions you have.
- Soil: Make sure the soil in your driveway is well-drained and has a pH that is suitable for the plants you choose.
- Size: Be sure to consider the mature size of the plants you choose and make sure they will fit in the space you have available.
- Maintenance: Choose plants that are easy to care for and that will not require a lot of maintenance.
By following these tips, you can choose the right plants for your driveway and create a beautiful and functional landscape that will enhance your home’s curb appeal and provide years of enjoyment.
