The brief
A newly landscaped front drive with empty rendered beds requiring simple, effective planting. Privacy from the neighbouring property was a priority on one side, while the opposite bed needed a distinctive ornamental focal point.
The planting
A hedge of Photinia ‘Red Robin’ was planted to create evergreen screening, underplanted with a simple combination of Echinaceapurpurea, Geranium ‘Rozanne’ and Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’ for long-flowering colour and contrasting foliage.
A manhole cover positioned within the hedge line needed to remain accessible, so a flowering cherry in a container was placed above it, providing immediate interest while the surrounding Photinia establishes and fills out.
For the opposite bed, the client wanted the character of a purple Japanese maple. As the hot, exposed position was unsuitable for an Acer, a half-standard Cotinus ‘Dusky Maiden’ was chosen instead, providing the desired rich foliage while being better suited to the conditions.
Design approach
The scheme balances privacy, simplicity and practicality. Repeated planting keeps the frontage clean and contemporary, while the Photinia creates a permanent screen and the potted cherry provides an adaptable solution to the manhole cover. The Cotinus retains the dark, ornamental character originally wanted while ensuring the planting responds appropriately to the site.
Services: Consultation · Planting design · Plant sourcing · Installation
Sima. Hayes, Bromley.
“Before we met Robbie, we consulted a few gardeners regarding the design and choice of plants for two empty flower beds in our drive. None met our expectations but we were immediately impressed with Robbie’s proposals and, just as important, his creativity and passion. His suggestions were exactly what we wanted – they incorporated a mix of plants and trees – and he completed the work within deadline and with total professionalism. From the outset, he was clear about the likely cost and his work ethic throughout was unquestionable. He also went out of his way several times in his helpfulness. Overall, he was an absolute star and has created something beautiful that has transformed our drive and he will always be our number one choice in the future. We fully recommend him!”