This metal fencing was purchased at Home Depot, and was easily put together around the electrical box. Sections of fencing are held together by posts that are hammered into the ground for support. Add a climbing plant such as this clematic, and you barely even notice the dull, gray electrical box. The fencing can be set up to cover three sides of the electrical box, leaving the back side of the electrical box uncovered so it can be serviced.
- This metal fencing was purchased at Home Depot, and was easily put together around the electrical box. Sections of fencing are held together by posts that are hammered into the ground for support. Add a climbing plant such as this clematic, and you barely even notice the dull, gray electrical box. The fencing can be set up to cover three sides of the electrical box, leaving the back side of the electrical box uncovered so it can be serviced.
- Hiding behind this lovely Japanese Maple is a trash can. Large clay colored cement blocks create a smooth path for the trash can to be rolled on, and the path is surrounded by Hosta, Artemesia and cedar mulch. The combined effect is a lovely corner that distracts away from the trash can.
- French drains are a necessity if you have slopes that can be washed away or a flat area that collects water after a good rain. While a well built french drain is lovely, it can easily be made to blend into the landscape when surrounded by groundcover and lovely bushes or trees. The drain is in the Susie Harwood Garden at UNCC.
- Compost bins ar really useful, particularly if you grow vegetables or annuals. While a well built compost bin should be well contained and not smell bad, it is helpful to have a tall, fragrant plant such as this black and blue salvia growing around the bins. The tall blue flowers will dress up the area, while the fragrance will help to disguise bad smells. This hardy annual will survive temperatures down to 0 degrees F and may live for years.
- Mailboxes are easily incorporated into gardens. You can choose to create a small garden around the mailbox, but weeds can quickly move into small beds. Consider building a large bed in the front yard, keeping the plants around the mailbox simple and compact. This will make it easier to keep the area free of weeds, and you will not need to repeatedly prune plants to find your mailbox. .
- Is the corner of your deck over a rain barrel or other storage? Fill a 16" planter with ivy, an interesting fern and some flowering plants. You'll add color and interest, and take attention away from the storage area..
- Of course, my friend has me beat. She disguises her goat pen with the Great Smoky Mountains!
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