Ideas for Planting Borders

Are you looking for ways to enhance the beauty of your garden? One of the best ways to do that is by planting borders. Not only do they add visual interest, but they can also help to define different areas of your garden. In this blog post, we'll share some ideas for planting borders that will take your garden to the next level.

Choosing Plants for Your Border

The first step in creating a border is to choose the right plants. When selecting plants, consider their height, color, texture, and blooming season. You may also want to choose plants based on their sun exposure requirements.

Perennials

Perennials are a great choice for borders because they come back year after year. Some popular perennials for borders include:

• Salvia
• Coneflowers
• Black-eyed Susans
• Daylilies
• Hostas

Annuals

Annuals are another option for borders. They provide bright bursts of color and can be planted in between perennials. Some annuals to consider include:

• Marigolds
• Petunias
• Zinnias
• Impatiens
• Begonias

Designing Your Border

Once you've chosen your plants, it's time to designing your border. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Height and Structure

To create visual interest, use plants of different heights and textures. Place taller plants in the back of the border and shorter ones in the front. You can also add structure by using plants with interesting shapes or foliage.

Color

Choose a color scheme that complements your existing landscape. For example, if you have a lot of greenery, choose plants with vibrant colors like red, orange, and yellow.

Seasonal Interest

Consider planting bulbs or other plants that bloom at different times throughout the year. This will ensure that your border looks beautiful no matter what season it is.

Planting Your Border

Now that you've designed your border, it's time to plant it. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Spacing

When planting, be sure to space your plants according to their mature size. Remember that they will grow over time, so give them plenty of room to spread out.

Soil Preparation

Prepare the soil before planting by adding compost or other organic matter. This will help to improve soil drainage and fertility.

Maintenance

Be sure to water your new plants regularly and fertilize them as needed. Prune them to maintain their shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.

Creating a Focal Point

If you want to create a focal point within your border, consider adding a tree, a sculpture, or a bench. This will draw the eye and add interest to your garden.

Trees

Trees can add height and structure to your border. Consider planting a small ornamental tree like a Japanese maple or a dogwood.

Sculptures

Sculptures can also add interest to your border. Choose one that complements your existing landscape and reflects your personal style.

Bench

A bench is a great way to create a relaxing spot within your garden. Place it in a shaded area surrounded by your favorite plants.

Adding Texture to Your Border

Texture is an important aspect of any garden design. Here are some ways to add texture to your border:

Grasses

Ornamental grasses can add height and movement to your border. They come in a variety of colors and textures, so choose one that complements your existing plants.

Succulents

Succulents are great for adding texture to your border. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and require little maintenance.

Ferns

Ferns are another great choice for adding texture. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes and thrive in shady areas.

Creating a Wildlife Habitat

If you want to attract wildlife to your garden, consider creating a habitat within your border. Here are some tips to get ed:

Birdhouses

Install a birdhouse in your border to provide a home for local birds. Choose one that is appropriate for the type of bird you want to attract.

Butterfly Garden

Create a butterfly garden by planting flowers like milkweed, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans. Butterflies will be attracted to the nectar and will lay their eggs on the plants.

Bee Garden

Plant flowers like lavender, bee balm, and coneflowers to attract bees to your garden. Bees are important pollinators and will help to ensure that your plants thrive.


Planting borders can be a fun and rewarding way to enhance the beauty of your garden. Whether you're looking to add color, texture, structure, or wildlife habitat, there are plenty of options to choose from. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and functional border in your outdoor space.

FAQs

Q: How do I choose the right plants for my border?

A: Consider their height, color, texture, and blooming season. You may also want to choose plants based on their sun exposure requirements.

Q: What should I consider when designing my border?

A: Think about height and structure, color, and seasonal interest.

Q: How do I plant my border?

A: Space your plants according to their mature size, prepare the soil before planting, and water and fertilize them regularly.

Q: How can I create a focal point within my border?

A: Consider adding a tree, a sculpture, or a bench.

Q: How can I add texture to my border?

A: Use ornamental grasses, succulents, and ferns to add texture to your border.