Maximize Your Space: Best Plants for Narrow Strips

Transforming narrow strips of land into vibrant, lush spaces can be a rewarding challenge. Whether it's a thin border around your house, a skinny garden between your fence and the sidewalk, or a long, narrow plot, these spaces can become beautiful, functional extensions of your property. With the right plants, you can create a stunning, low-maintenance oasis that adds curb appeal and enhances your outdoor living experience.

Before you start planting, consider the sunlight exposure, soil type, and climate in your narrow strip. This will help you choose plants that thrive in your specific conditions. Additionally, think about the look and feel you want to achieve - from formal and structured to wild and cottage-style, the possibilities are endless.

Evergreen Shrubs for Structure and Privacy

Evergreen shrubs are excellent choices for narrow strips as they provide year-round structure, privacy, and a sense of enclosure. They're perfect for creating a lush, inviting entrance or a secluded seating area.

When selecting evergreens, consider their mature size to ensure they fit within your space. Here are two popular options:

Arborvitae (Thuja)

Arborvitae is a versatile, fast-growing evergreen that provides dense screening. Its narrow form makes it ideal for narrow strips, and it thrives in various soil types and sunlight conditions. For a formal look, plant them in a straight line, or create a hedge with staggered rows.

Some popular varieties include 'Emerald Green' and 'American Pillar'. The latter grows in a narrow, columnar shape, perfect for tight spaces.

Boxwood (Buxus)

Boxwood is a classic choice for formal gardens and hedges. It has a neat, compact growth habit and can be pruned into various shapes. Boxwood prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, making it suitable for narrow strips that don't receive full sun.

Try 'Green Velvet' for a deep green color or 'Winter Gem' for improved cold hardiness. Both varieties maintain their dense, mounding shape without excessive pruning.

Ornamental Grasses and Perennials for Texture and Color

Ornamental grasses and perennials add texture, color, and movement to narrow strips. They're perfect for filling in spaces between shrubs and creating a natural, informal look. Choose plants with varying heights and textures to create visual interest.

Here are some combinations to consider:

Grasses and Black-Eyed Susans

Pair tall, upright ornamental grasses like Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) or Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster') with Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta). The grasses provide height and texture, while the Black-Eyed Susans add vibrant color and contrast.

For a cohesive look, plant the grasses in groups of three and intersperse them with Black-Eyed Susans. This combination works well in full sun and well-drained soil.

Hydrangeas and Fountain Grass

Create a beautiful, low-maintenance combination with Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.) and Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides). Hydrangeas provide lush, colorful blooms in summer and early fall, while Fountain Grass adds movement and texture with its cascading, wheat-like plumes.

Plant Hydrangeas in the back or center of the strip, depending on their mature size, and interplant with Fountain Grass. This combination thrives in partial to full shade and well-drained soil.

As your narrow strip garden matures, you'll enjoy a beautiful, inviting space that enhances your property's curb appeal. Don't be afraid to experiment with different plant combinations to create a unique, personalized look. Happy gardening!