When it comes to choosing plants for a retaining wall, there are a few factors to consider. You want plants that are easy to care for, can thrive in shady areas, and add beauty to your garden. Two great options that meet these criteria are hostas and ferns.
Hostas are incredibly popular plants, and for good reason. They are known for their ease of care and come in a wide range of sizes and colors. From small, compact varieties to large, leafy ones, there is a hosta for every garden. They are particularly well-suited for planting on retaining walls because they can tolerate shade and do not require a lot of maintenance. Hostas also have the added benefit of being deer-resistant, making them a great choice for gardens in areas with these animals.
Ferns are another excellent choice for retaining walls. They have a unique ability to add a lush, vibrant look to any garden, and they require minimal maintenance. Ferns can thrive in shady areas, making them perfect for planting on retaining walls that may receive limited sunlight. They are also quite versatile, as they come in various sizes and textures. From delicate lady ferns to robust ostrich ferns, there is a fern to suit any garden style.
One personal experience I had with using ferns on a retaining wall was truly delightful. I had a shady area in my garden where I wanted to create a lush green backdrop. I decided to plant a mix of different fern varieties on a stone retaining wall, and the result was stunning. The ferns added a sense of tranquility and natural beauty to the space, transforming it into a peaceful oasis. Not only did the ferns thrive in the shady conditions, but they also required minimal maintenance, allowing me to enjoy their beauty without much effort.
In addition to hostas and ferns, there are other plants that can work well on retaining walls, depending on the specific conditions and preferences. Some options to consider are creeping phlox, creeping jenny, and various types of sedums. These plants have cascading growth habits and can create a lovely trailing effect on the wall.
To summarize, when selecting plants for a retaining wall, it is important to choose ones that can thrive in shade, require minimal maintenance, and add beauty to your garden. Hostas and ferns are two excellent choices that meet these criteria. Hostas come in a range of sizes and colors, while ferns add a lush, vibrant look. Personal experiences and experimentation with different plants can help you find the perfect combination for your retaining wall.
