Best Shrubs for Side of House

When it comes to landscaping, choosing the right shrubs for the side of your house can significantly enhance your home's curb appeal and provide a welcoming entrance. Not only do they add beauty, but they also serve practical purposes like providing privacy, blocking unsightly views, and even deterring pests. Let's explore some of the best shrubs for the side of your house, categorized by their key features and benefits.

Before we dive into the best shrubs, it's crucial to consider factors such as your climate, the amount of sunlight the area receives, and the size and shape of the space you're working with. Additionally, think about the maintenance level you're comfortable with, as some shrubs require more care than others.

Evergreen Shrubs for Year-Round Privacy and Beauty

Evergreen shrubs are an excellent choice if you're looking for year-round privacy and a consistently attractive landscape. They retain their foliage throughout the year, providing a lush, green backdrop to your home.

Evergreens also offer excellent noise reduction and can help insulate your home, potentially lowering your heating and cooling costs. They typically grow at a moderate rate, making them suitable for various-sized spaces.

Leyland Cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii)

The Leyland Cypress is a fast-growing evergreen shrub known for its dense, dark green foliage. It grows well in full sun to partial shade and can reach heights of 60-80 feet, making it an excellent choice for tall hedges or screens. However, it requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size.

Leyland Cypress is also quite tolerant of urban conditions, making it a good choice for city dwellers. It's important to note that it has invasive tendencies in some areas, so check with your local nursery or extension office before planting.

Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)

Arborvitae is another popular evergreen shrub known for its narrow, pyramidal shape and dense foliage. It grows well in full sun to partial shade and is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning. Arborvitae comes in various sizes, from dwarf varieties to tall screens, making it versatile for different space needs.

Some popular cultivars include the Emerald Green Arborvitae, which maintains its vibrant green color throughout the year, and the American Arborvitae, which is known for its excellent cold hardiness and resistance to pests and diseases.

Deciduous Shrubs for Seasonal Interest and Easy Maintenance

Deciduous shrubs are an excellent choice if you're looking for shrubs that provide seasonal interest and require less maintenance than evergreens. They lose their leaves in the fall, allowing sunlight to reach your home and potentially lowering your heating costs. Deciduous shrubs also typically require less frequent pruning than evergreens.

However, they may not provide the same level of privacy as evergreens, as they are bare during the winter months. Consider planting them in combination with evergreens for a balanced landscape that offers both privacy and seasonal interest.

Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.)

Hydrangeas are beloved for their showy flowers that bloom in summer and early fall. They come in various sizes and flower colors, depending on the species and cultivar. Hydrangeas grow best in partial shade to full sun and are relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning.

Bigleaf Hydrangea (H. macrophylla) is a popular choice for its mophead or lacecap flowers, which can change color based on soil pH. Smooth Hydrangea (H. arborescens) is another excellent option, known for its large, white flower clusters that turn green in the fall.

Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus)

Rose of Sharon is a deciduous shrub known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from summer to fall. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and is quite hardy, tolerating a wide range of soil conditions and temperatures. Rose of Sharon is also relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning and little to no fertilization.

Rose of Sharon comes in various flower colors, including white, pink, purple, and red. Some cultivars also have double flowers or unique color patterns. Its large flowers make it an excellent choice for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

When selecting shrubs for the side of your house, consider your specific needs and preferences. Evergreens are an excellent choice for year-round privacy and beauty, while deciduous shrubs offer seasonal interest and easy maintenance. By choosing a mix of shrubs with different growth habits, sizes, and bloom times, you can create a lush, inviting landscape that enhances your home's curb appeal and provides practical benefits. So, go ahead and transform the side of your house into a beautiful, welcoming space that you'll enjoy for years to come.