Color Where It Counts
Yellow lantana fills a sunny bed along the front walk. Small 4-inch sprigs planted in the spring
quickly grew into knee-high mounds of golden blooms. This drought-tolerant, rambling ground cover
creates a nice focal point all summer. A few white cleomes, or spider flowers, stand out in front of
the dark green holly hedge. The annuals bloom throughout the hot summer and into fall. Planted under
a crepe myrtle in partial sun, a small pocket of purple New Guinea hybrid impatiens creates a splash
of color next to the steps.
A Little Turf
With the added flowers, shrubs, and parking area, there isn't a lot of room for grass. Two small
patches of 'Z-52' Zoysia complete the new landscape. The turf quickly rooted in and shimmers green
all summer long. Matt can easily cut the grass in a few minutes.
Finishing Touch
Containers in all shapes and sizes line the porch, steps, and landing. They add seasonal color and
can be moved at will to put blooming plants in the spotlight. The larger pots are made of
lightweight plastic foam. The containers were bright white when purchased, but brown wood stain was
applied with an old cloth to give the exterior a more subtle, aged look. Red-flowering Dragon Wing
hybrid begonias and orange Profusion Series zinnias provide colorful blooms in some of the planters.
Showy foliage plants, such as chartreuse creeping Jenny, variegated ivy, and sedge, also brighten
the entry. The planters catch your attention and guide you to the front door. They contribute plenty
of personality to the design and help soften the hardscape.
Matt and Teresa are proud of the new landscape. The added plants seem to embrace the old home and
give it new life. Strangers walking down the sidewalk and driving down the street sometimes stop
just to tell them how good their yard looks. First impressions mean a lot, and when visitors drive
up to the Luxes' house, they feel welcome before they even get to the door.
Source Information:
Patio furniture was purchased from Summer
Classics, (205) 663-1688 or www.summerclassics.com.
