Creating Your Perfect Outdoor Oasis

A Guide to Designing a Plant-Filled Paradise

Transforming your outdoor space into a lush, inviting oasis can be rewarding and therapeutic. A well-designed outdoor living area filled with plants enhances the aesthetics of your surroundings and creates a serene retreat. In this guide, we'll explore several plant varieties' unique qualities and care requirements that can elevate your outdoor living area into a haven of relaxation and beauty.

Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica)

Blue Lobelia, with its striking, vibrant blue flowers, is a beautiful choice for adding color to your outdoor living area. These perennials thrive in moist, well-draining soil and partial shade, making them versatile for your garden. Blue Lobelia attracts pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds, adding more life and movement to your outdoor oasis. Regular deadheading will keep these beauties blooming throughout the summer months.

Hostas (Hosta spp.)

Hostas are renowned for their lush, broad foliage and come in various colors and textures, making them a versatile choice for any outdoor living space. These shade-loving perennials require minimal maintenance and are perfect for filling holes under trees or in garden beds. Hostas add a serene, calming element to your garden and can be an excellent backdrop for other plants or decorations.

Bamboo (Bambusoideae spp.)

Bamboo is a versatile and elegant addition to any outdoor area, providing privacy, shade, and a touch of the exotic. With its rapid growth and low maintenance requirements, bamboo is a favorite for creating natural screens or defining garden borders. Ensure you choose to clump bamboo varieties to prevent the invasive spread and control your outdoor space's design.

Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.)

Hydrangeas are beloved for their large, globe-like flower clusters and ability to thrive in various climates. Depending on soil pH, these deciduous shrubs can be a focal point in your outdoor living area, offering a symphony of colors, including blue, pink, purple, and white. Proper pruning and maintenance will ensure lush blooms year after year, making hydrangeas a timeless choice for your garden.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.)

Hibiscus plants are known for stunning, showy flowers, ranging from classic reds to vibrant pinks and tropical oranges. These heat-loving shrubs thrive in sunny spots and require regular watering. Hibiscus creates a tropical ambiance, making it ideal for those looking to create a resort-like feel in their outdoor oasis. They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding to the vibrancy of your garden.

Lyreleaf Sage (Salvia lyrata)

Lyreleaf Sage, also known as Cancerweed or Lyre-leafed Sage, is a hardy, native perennial plant with a striking rosette of blue-green leaves. In early spring, tall spikes of violet-blue flowers emerge, creating a lovely contrast against the foliage. The lyreleaf sage is excellent for rock gardens, edging, or as ground cover in well-drained soil. It's also drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance choice for your outdoor living area.

Bellflower Merry Bells (Campanula hybrids)

Bellflowers, including the Merry Bells variety, are delightful perennials that add charm and grace to your garden. These plants produce delicate bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue, pink, or white. Bellflowers thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun to partial shade. They are perfect for adding vertical intrigue to your garden, whether as border plants or rock gardens.

Designing Your Outdoor Living Area

Now that we've explored these unique plant varieties, let's discuss how to design an outdoor living area that maximizes their beauty and functionality.

Plan the Layout:

  • Examine the size and shape of your outdoor space.
  • Determine the optimal locations for each plant type based on their sunlight and water requirements.
  • Create defined areas for seating, dining, and relaxation.

Incorporate Hardscaping:

  • Add pathways, patios, or decking to create functional spaces within your garden.
  • Choose materials that complement your plant selections and overall design style.

Layer Your Plants:

  • Use a variety of plant heights and textures to create depth and interest in your garden.
  • Place taller plants at the back or center of flower beds and shorter ones at the front.
  • Consider using containers or raised beds for added dimension.

Integrate Focal Points:

Install eye-catching elements like water features, sculptures, or trellises. These focal points can enhance the overall aesthetic and draw attention to specific areas of your outdoor space.

Pay Attention to Color:

  • Use a color scheme that complements your plant choices.
  • Consider seasonal changes in plant colors to ensure year-round appeal.

Create Seating and Gathering Areas:

  • Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture that encourages relaxation and socializing.
  • Arrange seating areas strategically to take advantage of garden views.

Add Lighting:

  • Incorporate outdoor lighting to extend the usability of your space into the evening.
  • Use a blend of ambient and accent lighting for a magical atmosphere.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining your outdoor living area is essential to keep it looking its best and thriving. Here are some general maintenance tips:

Watering:

Water plants consistently, but avoid overwatering. Consider using a drip irrigation system for efficiency. Adjust your watering schedule based on seasonal needs.

Pruning and Deadheading:

Regularly prune and deadhead plants to promote healthy growth and prolong flowering. Follow specific care guidelines for each plant type to ensure their longevity.

Mulching:

Apply mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Use organic mulch to improve soil quality over time.

Fertilizing:

Feed your plants with appropriate fertilizers to support their growth. Follow recommended fertilization schedules and dosage instructions.

Pest and Disease Control:

Observe your plants for signs of pests or diseases. Implement organic pest control methods when necessary to avoid harming beneficial wildlife.

Creating an outdoor living area with an abundance of plants like Blue Lobelia, Hostas, Bamboo, Hydrangeas, Hibiscus, Lyreleaf Sage, and Bellflower Merry Bells can turn your outdoor space into a haven of natural beauty and relaxation. You can enjoy a vibrant, inviting garden year-round by carefully planning your layout, incorporating hardscaping, and providing the necessary maintenance. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your gardening gloves, and transform your outdoor space into a plant-filled paradise.

Blue Lobelia - TN Nursery

Blue Lobelia

Blue Lobelia has striking blue hues and an attractive shape; this perennial plant can elevate the aesthetics of any garden or outdoor space. It is an excellent addition to any landscape design, from attracting pollinators to providing visual appeal. Blue Lobelia is a fantastic choice when you crave flowers that swirl together showy blue blossoms with vibrant greenery in bright spikes. It's a striking, solidly built plant that delights people and pollinators. The Aesthetics of The Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica) Perennial Several large flowers spiral around the stout central stem in an extended cluster. They are positioned most heavily along the upper portion of the stem. The tubular flowers have five petals with edges that curl attractively. Two petals form an upper lip—three fuse together to create a lower lip that is more prominent. Blooms are typically about an inch long and may appear solid or striped. While the bold flowers are the show's stars, the vibrant green foliage shines in its supporting role. The thick, unbranching stem stands firm and tall, allowing the plant to quickly reach two to three feet. Plants reaching four feet in height are not uncommon. The stems are wrapped in alternating leaves with no stalks in varying shapes. Some are shaped like a lance and finely toothed. These can measure up to five inches in length. Others are elliptical and can be between two and six inches long. Blue lobelia are primarily found in shades of blue or purple. However, plants with white flowers are also available. In addition, crosses with cardinal flowers may result in plants that produce pink blooms. Blue Lobelias Blooming Season This wildflower generally unfurls its blooms in midsummer or later and continues the show until fall. In many regions, you can enjoy the flowers from July through October. Blue Lobelia Has Exotic Flower Blue Lobelia are unique flowers that put on a fantastic show, so they're an excellent choice when you want something big, bold, and beautiful. They attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and pollinators. They flourish along ponds and water features, are favorites in borders, thrive in rain gardens, and delight when paired with plants like ferns, heuchera, or cardinal flowers.  What is the best fertilizer for the Blue Lobelia  The Blue Lobelia prefers a balanced fertilizer, a 10-10-10 mix that should be applied every month during the growing season. Organic compost also improves the soil and promotes healthy flowers.  Where does blue lobelia grow best?  Blue Lobelia can be grown in moist, well drained soil and partial to full sun. It is suitable for borders, rain gardens, or near streams.  How should I maintain the Blue Lobelia Plant  Blue lobelia require consistent watering as they thrive in moist soil. Remove withered flowers to encourage consistent blooms. Trimming back the stems after the flowering period helps to increase growth.  Can I grow Blue Lobelia in containers?  Blue Lobelia can be grown in containers with excellent drainage and fertile soil. Remember that potted plants need watering more often than those growing directly in the soil since they get dry much faster.  How long does Blue Lobelia last  Blue Lobelia is a short-lived perennial that will only last between 2 and 3 years. But it readily self-seeds, so new plants will sprout season after season.

hosta plant - TN Nursery

Hosta

Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their large, heart-shaped, and often variegated leaves and spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making them popular choices for garden borders and landscaping in low-light areas. They are renowned for their lush foliage and graceful appearance, which offer many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. These versatile perennials have gained popularity for their ability to enhance outdoor spaces with their aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance. Hosta is an attractive herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 feet in height, although a height of 18 inches is more common. There are several species of them, each with slight differences in leaf color. Each species has a different bloom, making exceptional focal points in any garden. Hosta (Plantain lilies) Has Stunning Leaves The type seen most commonly in the United States is the "Keepsake." The charming green leaves ringed with yellow accents are popular because of their hardiness in different climates and the beautiful vistas they create in a garden. Sometimes, the lighter color rings are shades of white rather than yellow, but they don't lose any eye-catching effects. They have leaves of a single color, usually dark green. All their leaves are sturdy and ribbed, even if they're longer and tapered rather than cheerfully oval. Compliment Your Landscape With Hostas Most versions have pretty purple or white flowers that bloom in the early summer through the beginning of fall. The flower buds form in the middle of spring and are generally the same color as the flowers. Even when they're just budding, they are beautiful plants that complement everything else in the garden. Once the buds bloom, the flowers form trumpet, bell, or elongated pendulous shapes. Only one version of these flowers has a strong scent, called the "August Lily." It's a shy flower, blooming in the evening and closing up again by morning, so it'll brighten up any garden when the sun goes down. Hosta Does Great With Other Plants When they are surrounded by flowers of similar colors, such as California bluebells for the species with violet flowers or tuberose for the white-flowered species, it creates a breathtaking effect. Alternating the various species in concentric rings would increase their appeal and let them truly shine. This Hosta Is Good for Pollinators Hosta blooms, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are essential for pollinators. The flowers provide nectar, and the leaves collect dew in the mornings, allowing these little creatures to drink while visiting the garden. What conditions do hostas thrive in? These plants grow in partial shade or full shade, hence suitable for gardens that may offer limited sunlight. Hostas grow well in well-draining and nutrient-filled soils and should be watered consistently, especially during dry periods.  How do I care for hostas in winter?  Hostas are perennials and go dormant in winter. Prune dead foliage in the fall and then put a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.  Do hostas come in different sizes and colors?  Hostas come in all sorts of sizes, from small miniatures to large sprawling plants. Their foliage comprises beautiful green, blue and gold that may have different patterns.  How can I keep slugs and pests away from my hostas?  Snails or slugs are common enemies for the hostas. You can use eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base. You can also reduce pest problems by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good air circulation in the garden.  Can hostas be grown in containers?  Hostas are perfect for container gardening and, therefore, can be placed on the patio or in other small spaces. It is advisable to plant the flower in a pot with a good drainage hole; water it frequently and place it in a shaded area.

Bamboo Plant

Bamboo Plant

Running Bamboo is a versatile and fast-growing species that offers many benefits when incorporated into landscaping projects. Its unique characteristics and practical attributes make it popular for enhancing outdoor spaces with aesthetic and functional advantages. It is a shrub that will grow outwards almost as quickly as upwards. Although primarily an ornamental species, it does serve several purposes within a given landscape. Let's take a closer look at what this Bamboo Plant looks like and why you'll want to have it on your property. Bamboo (Phyllostachys) Plant's Increase Oxygen and Offers Wildlife a Refuge  Bamboo Plant, usually referred to as the world's most fantastic plant, is one of the most versatile plants that can grace your garden. This fast-growing plant is known for its countless environmental benefits, including reforestation, carbon sequestration, soil conservation, and more. Compared to a group of trees, a bamboo grove releases almost 35% more oxygen and quickly dismisses carbon dioxide, improving the overall air quality in and around your house.  Despite its reputation for turning a garden into a jungle, the plant can grow in small and confined spaces, making it a unique yet stunning addition to your residential landscape. If you've decided to buy bamboo plants for your backyard, you're actively saving the planet and giving your garden a distinctive look.  Features of a Bamboo Plant Bamboo plants can grow up to 30% faster than usual hardwood plants. Many species can grow 36 inches in a single day. A typical bamboo plant can reach its full maturity in a single growing period, which lasts about 3-4 months.  Bamboo Can Be An Excellent Privacy Screen The bamboo tree's root system is a natural filter that produces clean and drinkable water. The taste is somewhat sweet, with a floral scent that can be compared to coconut water.  Bamboo Is A Very Strong Plant Bamboo is considered to have the strength of steel and the hardness of oak. This is one reason it can replace plastics, paper, and wood in many industries. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that can nicely fit into your small garden space, you can get bamboo plant for sale from TN Nursery. When ordering your bamboo plant online, check out Hosta and English Ivy, which go well with a bamboo plant for any garden space. How long will my bamboo plant live? Bamboo plants can live for a duration of up to 10-15 years on average, depending on the type of bamboo plant and environs. With the right care, such as watering the plants and applying fertilizers, the life span will be longer.  Does bamboo need sunlight?  Yes, the growth of bamboo requires bright and indirect sunlight, although some species may be planted under partial shade. For maximum growth duration, try to ensure that the plant gets between 4 - 6 hours of direct sunlight.  Does bamboo regrow when cut?  Yes, bamboo does resprout; however, a new bamboo shoot will not occur from the "V" cut placed on the culm part but from the roots/rhizomes. Regular pruning will encourage rhizomes to produce shoots and prevent the pant from becoming invasive.  How often should I water bamboo?  Water your bamboo once or twice a week, with the soil slightly moist but not wet. In summer or when the weather is extremely dry, you may have to water more often so that the soil does not dry up.  What is a good fertilizer for bamboo?  They grow well when fertilized using a fertilizer of equal nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potassium (NPC) 10:10:10. Remember, overfertilizing is harmful to the plant.

Blue Hydrangea - TN Nursery

Blue Hydrangea

Blue Hydrangea has vibrant dinnerplate blooms, lush foliage, and versatility, making it famous for gardens, parks, and residential landscapes. Scientifically known as macrophylla, it is a captivating flowering shrub celebrated for its enchanting beauty and the tranquil ambiance of gardens and landscapes. Revered for its vibrant azure blossoms, it is a botanical masterpiece that has charmed horticulturists and nature enthusiasts for generations. With a profusion of attractively hued blooms, Blue Hydrangea makes beautiful additions to any garden. The flowers appear in clusters or cones up to eight inches wide. The foliage is generally deep green with a matte or waxy surface, but leaf shapes vary significantly between varieties. Some plants produce oblong or heart-shaped leaves between four and eight inches long, while others are adorned with serrated, deeply veined, or lobed leaves of similar size. Blue Hydrangea Shrubs (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Nikko Blue') Have Amazing Large Blooms One unique fact about Blue Hydrangea it is the most eye-catching parts of the plant aren't made up of petals, as is the case with most other flowering plants. Instead, showy, colorful blooms are comprised of petal-like structures called sepals. Sepals are sturdier than regular flower petals and protect the tiny flowers hidden behind or below them. Their bloom clusters vary from faint sky-blue to deep purple, with most shades in between. The color of the flowers it produces is based on the plant's variety and the content of certain minerals in the surrounding soil. Get Blue Hydrangea Dies Back In Winter They go dormant in the cooler months. As warmer weather returns, the plants start putting on new foliage, and new flowers begin forming in mid-to late spring. They will burst into full bloom in the early summer, with the flowers generally reaching their prime during June, July, August, and September. Some varieties only bloom once per growing season, while others rebloom continuously throughout the summer. Creating Height and Depth With Blue Hydrangea Blue Hydrangea can grow six feet or more with a six-foot branch span. These standard varieties are suitable for creating a border, a flowering green wall, or a divider between lawn areas. If space is a consideration, smaller varieties that are great for raising pots or planters are also available. These varieties will reach just two to three feet with a similar branch-spread diameter. Some plants also act like vines and can scale trees and fences to heights of 50 feet or more. Blue Hydrangea Is A Favorite Flowering Shrub For Gardeners

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