What to Plant in Front of Boxwoods: A Complete Guide to Complementary Planting

Boxwoods, with their dense, evergreen foliage and formal structure, are a staple in many gardens. They provide year-round interest, create defined borders, and serve as excellent backdrops. However, a long line of boxwoods can sometimes feel a bit monotonous. The key to unlocking their true potential lies in choosing the right plants to showcase in front of them. This guide provides a comprehensive look at what to plant in front of boxwoods, considering various factors such as sunlight, soil conditions, color palettes, and desired styles. Whether you’re aiming for a cottage garden charm, a sophisticated formal design, or a low-maintenance landscape, this article will help you select the perfect companions for your boxwood beauties.

## Understanding Your Boxwoods: A Foundation for Planting

Before diving into specific plant recommendations, it’s crucial to understand the needs and characteristics of your boxwoods. This foundational knowledge will ensure that the plants you choose will thrive alongside them, creating a harmonious and healthy garden.

* **Sunlight:** Boxwoods generally prefer partial shade to full sun, although some varieties are more tolerant of shade than others. Observe how much sunlight your boxwoods receive throughout the day. This will significantly influence your plant selection. Plants requiring full sun will struggle in the shade cast by boxwoods, and vice versa.

* **Soil:** Boxwoods thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Conduct a soil test to determine your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil as needed with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. This is especially important if you’re planting in heavy clay soil.

* **Water Requirements:** While boxwoods are relatively drought-tolerant once established, they need regular watering during their first year. Consider this when selecting companion plants. Choose plants with similar water needs to avoid over- or under-watering either the boxwoods or the front plants.

* **Size and Shape:** Consider the mature size and shape of your boxwoods. Taller boxwoods can accommodate taller plants in front, while shorter boxwoods look best with lower-growing companions. The overall shape of your boxwoods will also influence your planting design. For example, a neatly trimmed hedge will benefit from plants that add a softer, more informal touch.

* **Climate Zone:** Ensure that the plants you choose are suitable for your climate zone. This will ensure their long-term survival and health. Consult a local nursery or extension office for recommendations on plants that thrive in your specific area.

## Choosing the Right Plants: Factors to Consider

Selecting the right plants to complement your boxwoods involves more than just aesthetics. Consider these factors to create a thriving and visually appealing garden.

* **Color:** Color is a powerful tool for creating visual interest and harmony. Consider the color of your boxwood foliage and choose plants that complement or contrast with it. For example, the dark green of boxwoods pairs beautifully with the silver foliage of Dusty Miller or the vibrant colors of impatiens.

* **Texture:** Different textures can add depth and dimension to your garden. Combine the fine texture of boxwoods with the bolder texture of hostas or the feathery texture of ferns. Experiment with different textures to create a visually stimulating landscape.

* **Height and Width:** Choose plants that are proportionate to the size of your boxwoods and the overall space. Avoid overcrowding by selecting plants that won’t outgrow their designated area. Consider the mature height and width of each plant before planting.

* **Bloom Time:** Select plants with staggered bloom times to provide continuous color throughout the growing season. This will ensure that your garden always has something to offer.

* **Maintenance:** Consider your desired level of maintenance when choosing plants. Some plants require more pruning, fertilizing, or deadheading than others. Choose plants that fit your lifestyle and gardening abilities.

* **Deer Resistance:** If deer are a problem in your area, choose deer-resistant plants to avoid damage to your garden. Boxwoods are generally deer-resistant, but many other plants are not.

* **Design Style:** Consider the overall style of your garden. Are you aiming for a formal, traditional look or a more informal, cottage-style design? Choose plants that complement your desired aesthetic.

## Plant Recommendations: By Sunlight and Style

Here are some plant recommendations, categorized by sunlight exposure and design style, to help you choose the perfect companions for your boxwoods.

### For Sunny Locations:

* **Lavender (Lavandula):** Lavender’s fragrant foliage and purple flowers create a beautiful contrast with the dark green of boxwoods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

* **Salvia (Salvia spp.):** Salvia comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes, offering endless possibilities for adding color and texture to your garden. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

* **Coneflower (Echinacea):** Coneflowers are drought-tolerant and attract pollinators, making them a great choice for a sunny garden. They come in a range of colors, including purple, pink, and white.

* **Sedum (Sedum spp.):** Sedum is a low-maintenance succulent that adds texture and color to the garden. It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes and is drought-tolerant.

* **Daylily (Hemerocallis):** Daylilies are easy to grow and come in a wide range of colors and bloom times. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

* **Catmint (Nepeta):** Catmint is a fragrant, deer-resistant perennial that attracts pollinators. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

* **Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia):** Russian Sage offers silvery foliage and lavender-blue flowers, creating a stunning contrast with boxwoods. It’s drought-tolerant and deer-resistant.

### For Shady Locations:

* **Hosta (Hosta spp.):** Hostas come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a versatile choice for shady gardens. They prefer moist, well-drained soil.

* **Astilbe (Astilbe spp.):** Astilbe produces feathery plumes of flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. It prefers moist, shady locations.

* **Ferns (Various):** Ferns add a touch of elegance and texture to shady gardens. Choose ferns that are suitable for your climate and soil conditions.

* **Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana):** Impatiens provide vibrant color in shady areas. They come in a wide range of colors and are easy to grow. Note that Impatiens are susceptible to Impatiens Downy Mildew, so consider disease-resistant varieties or alternatives.

* **Begonia (Begonia spp.):** Begonias come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a versatile choice for shady gardens. They prefer moist, well-drained soil.

* **Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis):** Bleeding Heart produces delicate, heart-shaped flowers in the spring. It prefers moist, shady locations.

* **Liriope (Liriope muscari):** Liriope, also known as Lilyturf, is a grass-like perennial that provides evergreen ground cover. It’s tolerant of shade and drought.

### For Formal Gardens:

* **Roses (Rosa spp.):** Roses add a touch of elegance and romance to formal gardens. Choose varieties that are disease-resistant and easy to care for.

* **Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.):** Hydrangeas produce large, showy blooms in a variety of colors. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil.

* **Tulips (Tulipa spp.):** Tulips provide a burst of color in the spring. Plant them in the fall for spring blooms.

* **Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis):** Hyacinths are fragrant spring-blooming bulbs that come in a variety of colors.

* **Pansies (Viola x wittrockiana):** Pansies provide cheerful color in the spring and fall. They prefer cool weather and well-drained soil.

* **Ornamental Grasses (e.g., Feather Reed Grass – Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’):** While seemingly informal, some ornamental grasses like Feather Reed Grass can add vertical structure and movement to a formal garden when used in a deliberate and restrained manner.

### For Cottage Gardens:

* **Peonies (Paeonia spp.):** Peonies are fragrant, long-lived perennials that produce large, showy blooms. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

* **Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea):** Foxglove adds vertical interest to the garden with its tall spikes of bell-shaped flowers. It prefers partial shade and well-drained soil.

* **Columbine (Aquilegia spp.):** Columbine produces delicate, spurred flowers in a variety of colors. It prefers partial shade and well-drained soil.

* **Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum):** Shasta Daisies are classic cottage garden plants with their white petals and yellow centers. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

* **Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima):** Sweet Alyssum provides a carpet of fragrant, tiny flowers. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

* **Dianthus (Dianthus spp.):** Dianthus, also known as Pinks, offer fragrant, fringed flowers and often have a spicy clove-like scent. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

### For Low-Maintenance Gardens:

* **Groundcover Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis):** Groundcover Juniper provides evergreen ground cover and is drought-tolerant once established.

* **Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum):** Creeping Thyme is a fragrant, low-growing ground cover that is drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators.

* **Stonecrop Sedum (Sedum spp.):** As mentioned before, Sedums are excellent low-maintenance choices.

* **Yarrow (Achillea millefolium):** Yarrow is a drought-tolerant perennial that comes in a variety of colors. It attracts pollinators and is relatively low-maintenance.

* **Lavender Cotton (Santolina chamaecyparissus):** Lavender Cotton offers silvery foliage and is drought-tolerant. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

## Planting Guide: Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you’ve chosen your plants, follow these steps to ensure successful planting.

1. **Prepare the Soil:** Dig a planting hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the plant’s root ball. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. If you have heavy clay soil, consider adding sand or gravel to improve drainage.

2. **Remove the Plant from its Container:** Gently remove the plant from its container, being careful not to damage the roots. If the roots are circling the pot, gently loosen them with your fingers.

3. **Plant the Plant:** Place the plant in the planting hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant.

4. **Water Thoroughly:** Water the plant thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and establish the roots. Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

5. **Fertilize (Optional):** If desired, you can fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.

6. **Monitor and Maintain:** Monitor the plant regularly and water as needed. Prune as necessary to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead or diseased foliage.

## Design Tips for Planting in Front of Boxwoods

Here are some additional design tips to help you create a beautiful and harmonious garden.

* **Create Layers:** Plant taller plants towards the back and shorter plants towards the front to create a layered effect.

* **Use Repetition:** Repeat plants or colors throughout the garden to create a sense of unity.

* **Add Contrast:** Use contrasting colors and textures to create visual interest.

* **Consider the View from Indoors:** Think about how the garden will look from inside your home. Plant accordingly to create a pleasing view.

* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** Gardening is a process of trial and error. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different plants and designs until you find what works best for you.

* **Pay Attention to Spacing:** Provide adequate spacing between plants to allow them to grow and mature without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to disease and poor air circulation.

* **Consider Seasonal Interest:** Choose plants that provide interest throughout the year, including spring blooms, summer foliage, fall color, and winter berries.

* **Use Mulch Wisely:** Mulch helps to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Choose a mulch that complements your garden’s aesthetic and is appropriate for your plants.

* **Deadhead Regularly:** Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms and keeps the garden looking tidy.

* **Protect from Pests and Diseases:** Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases. Take action promptly to prevent problems from spreading.

## Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when planting in front of boxwoods.

* **Choosing the Wrong Plants for the Sunlight:** Selecting plants that require full sun for a shady area, or vice versa, will result in poor growth and potentially plant death.

* **Overwatering or Underwatering:** Providing too much or too little water can stress plants and make them susceptible to disease.

* **Overcrowding:** Planting plants too close together can lead to overcrowding, which can restrict air circulation and create a breeding ground for pests and diseases.

* **Neglecting Soil Preparation:** Poor soil can lead to nutrient deficiencies and drainage problems. Amend the soil as needed to ensure healthy plant growth.

* **Ignoring Maintenance:** Neglecting regular maintenance, such as pruning and deadheading, can result in a messy and overgrown garden.

## Conclusion: Creating a Beautiful and Thriving Boxwood Garden

Planting in front of boxwoods is a wonderful way to enhance the beauty and interest of your garden. By considering factors such as sunlight, soil conditions, color palettes, and desired styles, you can create a landscape that is both visually appealing and ecologically sound. With careful planning and a little bit of effort, you can transform your boxwood hedge into a stunning focal point that adds value and enjoyment to your home for years to come. So, get out there, get your hands dirty, and start creating the garden of your dreams!