How can I brighten a gravel patch?
Q How do we brighten up an area of gravel? We have tried plants in pots but are really after a more ‘border-like’ display?
Marie Scott, Bridlington
A I suggest that you work good topsoil and crumbly manure into the gravel and sand area to make an appealing bed.
Then I think I would create a series of islands, dividing them with grass paths. If you use pea shingle for paths, edge it with ceramic tiles, bricks, or plastic edging strips.
As for planting, the following shrubs and border perennials thrive in full sun or light shade and should serve you well: Perennials: Agapanthus, allium, alchemilla, Anemone hupehensis, aquilegia, aster, astrantia, brunnera, campanula, chrysanthemum ‘Clara Curtis’, crocosmia, dianthus, dicentra, echinacea, euphorbia, geranium (cranesbill varieties), hemerocallis, hosta. iris (bearded), salvia, schizstylis.
Small shrubs: Abelia, aucuba, berberis, Buddleja ‘Buzz’, camellia, ceratostigma, choisya, cistus, Cornus ‘Midwinter Fire’, cytisus, Daphne odora ‘Aureomarginata’, fuchsia (hardy varieties), Hebe ‘Dazzler’, hydrangea, hypericum, lavender, mahonia, myrtle, Philadelphus ‘Manteau d’Hermine’.
Most garden centres stock them or could order them for you.
Shall I prune my penstemons
I have several penstemons that have survived the winter with mulch over their roots. Should I allow them to grow on or cut them down to the ground?
