One of the most popular aesthetic means to enhance the beauty and allure of a circular driveway is to use plants, shrubs and trees. Not only would plants soften the look of your landscape, they also make your driveway more welcoming. However, with a plethora of options for planting materials, finding the most suitable for a circular driveway can be daunting. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to narrow down your choices.
1. Add height and depth to your circular driveway.
When designing a landscape for your circular driveway, start with the tallest plant first. Trees can act as a backdrop for smaller plants. Plant trees in odd numbers; for example, three palm trees or five Cyprus trees. Choose trees that will complement the style and height of your home. Ornamental trees are highly recommended since they add height and depth to the house. Plant evergreen trees for a greener winter look. Allow enough space in between the trees and your driveway so that when the trees grow, the roots will not damage your property. Choose trees with colorful foliage that bear flowers during spring.
2. Choose tall bushes instead of tall trees if space is an issue.
In some cases, such as tight turns, smaller planting areas and size of the property can prevent you from planting trees along your circular driveway. Opt for tall bushes instead. Mixing bushes with colorful foliage can add interest and height to your planting areas. Trim bushes to add drama. Boxwoods can give your circular driveway a more tailored look while hydrangea bushes can give your months of colorful blooms that you and your guests can enjoy.
3. Create flower beds.
The mixture of trees and bushes will promote a refreshing aura and a welcoming sight for those entering the driveway. Arrange and position the taller shrubs behind the smaller ones for a symmetrical appearance. Plant them adjacent or near existing flower beds and plants. Avoid putting in small shrubs, flower beds and miniature fountains. A circular driveway is center focused so size really matters. Place the bigger and taller plants along the inner edge of the circle and the smaller ones near the house. Color variety is a good space and volume enhancer so use wisely.
4. Use the same theme of plants.
When planting along the circular driveway, it’s best if you use the same types of plants to ensure cohesiveness. Maintain similar color, texture, and types of plants so that they complement each other and are pleasing to the eyes.
5. Place a privacy bed
Plant shrubs and flower beds along the entryways to serve as privacy walls. This is most appropriate for non-exclusive driveways. The privacy wall will serve as demarcation line in between parking slots. These exquisite plant hedges also add color and accent to your driveway. Plant hedges and trees also serve as buffers to keep the noise down, especially if your property is very near busy streets.
6. Do not overcrowd your plants.
Overcrowding your planting bed along a circular driveway can make the design look sloppy. Leave enough room for the plants to breathe.
7. Add sufficient light where and when needed.
Install additional lights along the borders or runway of the driveway. Hang miniature lights on bigger trees for better illumination at night. Lights add nostalgia and drama to any landscape. Place miniature garden lamps or spotlights on the grassy lawn to give the landscape a grander and more elegant look.
8. Use rocks to fill in gaps alongside the driveway.
Allot approximately 2 feet of space between the pavement and the grassy lawn. Place different kinds of rocks and pebbles of various shapes, sizes and colors. The mixture of the concrete pavers, rock and grass will add style to your driveway.
Resources:
Evergreens – A Green Landscape Area
For A Circular Driveway
http://www.landscape-solutions-for-you.com/Evergreens.html
