When it comes to planting in narrow spaces, it’s important to choose plants that are slim and vertical in growth habit. This ensures that the plants won’t outgrow the space and will maintain their shape without requiring constant pruning or maintenance. There are several options available for narrow planters, including upright perennials, columnar shrubs, and vines.
Upright perennials are a great choice for narrow planters as they tend to grow upwards rather than spreading outwards. Some examples of upright perennials that are well-suited for narrow spaces include ornamental grasses like feather reed grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum). These grasses have slender, vertical growth habits and add a graceful movement to the garden. Another option is the purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), which has tall stems with beautiful purple flowers that attract pollinators.
Columnar shrubs are another excellent choice for narrow planters as they have a narrow and compact growth habit. These shrubs provide vertical interest and can be used to create a living screen or hedge in tight spaces. One popular columnar shrub is the Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), which has a tall and slender form that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Another option is the columnar yew (Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’), which has a narrow and upright growth habit and is perfect for adding structure and privacy.
Vines are a versatile option for narrow planters as they can be trained to grow vertically and take up minimal space. Some vines that are suitable for narrow planters include the climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris) and the clematis. The climbing hydrangea has beautiful white flowers and can be trained to climb walls or trellises, while clematis comes in a variety of colors and adds a vibrant touch to any vertical space.
When choosing plants for narrow planters, it’s important to consider their mature size and growth habit. Make sure to select plants that won’t outgrow the space and require constant pruning to keep them in bounds. By choosing slim and vertical plants, you can save time and effort in maintaining them and enjoy a beautiful and well-organized garden.
In my personal experience, I have used upright perennials and columnar shrubs in narrow planters to create vertical interest and maximize space. I have found that these plants not only fit well in the narrow planting spaces but also add a sense of height and structure to the overall garden design. Additionally, the use of vines in narrow planters has allowed me to create living screens and green walls in areas where space is limited. I have found that choosing the right plants for narrow planters is crucial in creating a visually appealing and low-maintenance garden.
