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Shrubs

Evergreen and deciduous shrubs are the basics for homeowner's foundation plantings. Gardeners plant shrubs for many different functions. The Forsythia (pictured left) is one of the first shrubs to bloom in the Spring. It is a sign to gardeners that Spring is on the way.The primary functions of shrubs are to be beautiful accents, pretty barriers or screens, wind breakers, attracters of birds and animals, and energy savers.

The Harry Lauder's Walking Stick is an excellent specimen shrub for the winter garden. This shrub comes into its beauty in the winter when its lack of leaves displays its unusual contorted branches.

Shrubs are an excellent choice when faced with unsightly gas meters, electrical boxes, neighboring fences, and other obstructions. A wise choice of evergreen and deciduous shrubs can create a dramatic show of color throughout the year. The Bouganvillea (pictured right) is a hardy shrub in warmer temperature zones in the south, but is treated as a houseplant or patio plant in colder northern temperature zones.

Many shrubs will attract birds and butterflies because of their flowering, edible foliage, or edible fruits. Choosing the proper shrubs to serve this function can add new dimensions to any home landscape. The fragrance of the Annabelle Hydrangea (pictured left) attracts bees.The Budlia, otherwise known as the Butterfly Bush, blooms throughout the summer and is a great attracter to all types of butterflies, including the Monarch.