TrailGaiter
06-27-2011, 11:00 AM
We have been building a new deck in our back yard. The steps were hubby's idea...I wanted wood steps, but we had all of these materials already from a previous project (the concrete blocks and pavers) and he wanted to try them. I guess they're ok.... there are a couple of gaps he plans to fill in yet...this deck project isn't quite done yet, he needs to fill in the gaps in the steps, and we need to finish the spindles on the deck railing, then it's done! The framing is up, and the skirting around the deck finished, as of yesterday!
So, I want to plant something on each side of the stairs. Obviously I'm not going to be able to mow there in those corners....so we're going to mulch up against the deck....what should I put in that spot?
I'm in zone 5, Madison, WI. I'm in love with tropical looking plants, but I know I'm very limited on that. Any tropical looking plants that are suitable for zone 5? (I planted some cordylines, basjoos, a couple of canna bulbs, and persian shield this year). I love the Yucca colorguard, but haven't gotten my hands on any, and don't know a lot about it.
I'm not overly picky....but I'd love ideas on what kind of shrub or something anyone reading this might think would look good planted in these corners. The back of the house faces south, it would receive a lot of sun....Hmmm...I'd even wondered if some clumps of basjoo would look good there, but if it grew, it may cover the stairway. But I may get ahead of myself...as my basjoos now aren't growing very well yet. I should see if they grow first! lol
Thanks for any opinions!
Angie
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb236/grullablue/deckstairs.jpg
So, I want to plant something on each side of the stairs. Obviously I'm not going to be able to mow there in those corners....so we're going to mulch up against the deck....what should I put in that spot?
I'm in zone 5, Madison, WI. I'm in love with tropical looking plants, but I know I'm very limited on that. Any tropical looking plants that are suitable for zone 5? (I planted some cordylines, basjoos, a couple of canna bulbs, and persian shield this year). I love the Yucca colorguard, but haven't gotten my hands on any, and don't know a lot about it.
I'm not overly picky....but I'd love ideas on what kind of shrub or something anyone reading this might think would look good planted in these corners. The back of the house faces south, it would receive a lot of sun....Hmmm...I'd even wondered if some clumps of basjoo would look good there, but if it grew, it may cover the stairway. But I may get ahead of myself...as my basjoos now aren't growing very well yet. I should see if they grow first! lol
Thanks for any opinions!
Angie
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb236/grullablue/deckstairs.jpg