Any suggestions for a nice plant / srub in front garden?

[AnnieT]

Hi there,

Just wondering if any green fingered ED forum people out there have any tips for a good 'focal' plant or srub for our front garden? We were hoping to buy a lavender bush, but being no garden expert I hadn't realised they don't grow very tall. We are wanting something that not only provides some greenary but also gives a little bit of privacy in our front room - without blocking out too much light. we are ideally looking for a nice central plant, so were thinking of now having the lavender to go along the picket fence and may be some sort of small tree or plant.

Any suggestions please send them through!

Many thanks all,

annie

[Frankito]

Go for some New Zealand flax. They come in many different colours and look very good. I have a large one in my front garden and it's now become a bit of a focal point.

[PeckhamRose]

Whilst not being able to recommend to you a specific plant, I can recommend without any payment or benefit to myself that you go see Paul at Indacos flowers up Lordship Lane, by Lordship Lane vets and that strip of shops at junction of the South Circular. He is very good and his plants are good quality and very reasonable costs.

[red devil]

Try the West Dulwich Garden Centre, knowledgable and friendly.

Whoever you decide to visit, it's worth taking a few photos to show them the context...

[The Minkey]

Whatever you decide to go for, if the plant is to provide some privacy screening, it needs to be an evergreen so you don't end up looking at a bunch of bare twigs during the dormant months. To help narrow things down, you need to determine what the light and soil conditions are so you can choose a suitable plant for the position you want it to grow in. You might also want to consider whether you want flowers/scent, and/or autumnal interest such as berries. Also, pay attention to its predicted maximum height/spread, and rate of growth.

[AnnieT]

Thanks all- much appreciated and defo need an evergreen of some sort!

[computedshorty]

AnnieT

How large is your Garden?

A picture might help in a choice, as to placing /shade / clear vision / has it got paving slabs that would restrict rain?