Choosing the Right Plants for Your Outdoor Living Space
Designing your outdoor living space can be an exciting project. You get to create a space that suits your lifestyle, personality, and needs. One of the most important features of an outdoor living space is plants. Plants provide several benefits such as shade, privacy, beauty, and relaxation. However, not all plants are right for every outdoor living space. In this article, we will discuss the things you should consider when choosing plants for your outdoor living space.
Sunlight
The amount of sunlight your outdoor living space receives plays a crucial role in determining the type of plants that will thrive in the area. It is important to identify which areas get direct sunlight, partial shade, or full shade. Full sun areas require plants that can withstand direct sunlight throughout the day. Examples of full sun plants are petunias, marigolds, succulents, and sunflowers.
Partial shade areas require plants that can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight and some shade during the day. Examples of partial shade plants are impatiens, ferns, hydrangeas, and hostas. Full shade areas require plants that can grow with minimal to no direct sunlight. Examples of full shade plants are ferns, begonias, hostas, and impatiens.
Soil
The type of soil in your outdoor living space is also an important factor in plant selection. Soil types can range from sandy, loamy, and clayey. Sandy soil is well-draining but does not hold moisture and nutrients, therefore, plants that prefer well-drained soil are excellent choices. Examples of plants that grow best in sandy soil are cacti, sedums, and lavender.
Loamy soil is the ideal type of soil for plants as it retains water and nutrients while also draining excess water. Examples of plants that grow well in loamy soil are roses, tomatoes, and zinnias. Clayey soil is dense and retains water for extended periods, making it ideal for plants that require moist soil. Examples of plants that grow well in clayey soil are ferns, black-eyed susans, and astilbe.
Watering
Watering is a vital aspect of plant selection. Knowing how much water different plants need can save you time and money in the long run. Some plants require frequent watering while others can go for long periods without it. For instance, succulents and cacti require little water and are perfect for an outdoor living space that receives little attention. On the other hand, plants like ferns and hostas require constant moisture and are ideal for an outdoor living space with a dedicated watering system.
Maintenance
When choosing plants for your outdoor living space, ensure that they are low maintenance. Low maintenance plants require little pruning, fertilizing, and pest control. They are ideal for people who do not have the time or expertise to tend to plants regularly. Some examples of low maintenance plants are succulents, cacti, lavender, and gaura.
Color Scheme
The color scheme of your outdoor living space should complement the plants you choose. Consider the colors of your outdoor furniture, curtains, and other features when selecting plants. For instance, if your furniture is beige, choose plants with vibrant colors like yellow or red to add contrast. If your furniture is white, consider green plants to create a fresh, clean look.
Plants add life, beauty, and color to your outdoor living space. However, choosing the right plants can be overwhelming. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can create an outdoor living space that suits your needs, personality, and lifestyle. Remember to choose plants that can thrive in the sunlight, soil type, and watering conditions of your living space. Finally, select low maintenance plants that complement the color scheme of your living space.