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Design Dilemma Exterior Garden

What would you do with this space?

Kerry Johnstone

3 years ago

Hi Team! What would you do with this space?

I have two mini dachshunds, so I was thinking of putting down a small patch of turf just behind the tiled area and possibly pulling down/pruning back the trees to allow more light (it is western facing backyard). The dogs mainly sunbake during the day, and it's quite shady at the moment.

I would love some ideas of plants/bushes to put in - one of my pups love to sniff around bushes looking for lizards (only to chase!)

This is my first ever little garden, so I'm really not sure where to start, any advice appreciated :)

Note - I have a huge front terrace for entertaining , so this area is mainly for the dogs :)

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Comments (3)

HU-350531119
3 years ago
Since this is western facing I think it's important you keep a screen much like the one you have. In winter it seems too shady but come summer you will be glad for the coverage from hot afternoon sun. Perhaps the best solution for you is a deciduous tree screen which gives you the warmth in winter for the pooches and shade in summer when you want it. A good candidate would be chinese redbud in a dwarf variety, it won't get too big but will give you lovely blossoms and wonderful shade in summer.

Given the height of your fence I think you will struggle with turf. It will likely become patchy and won't be a good investment. May I suggest zoysia as a good alternative? It's a low clumping grass that's perfect for a shady position. Often used in Japanese style gardens this would provide a lovely grassy area for your dogs but never needs mowing and grows well in your shady position. It's also far more interesting to look at than regular turf.

Under the tree screen you have the option for many types of understory shrubs that can either give you floral display, fragrance or just a nice evergreen feature. Here are some good options.

For something fragrant, cheap and fast growing try star jasmine. It likes sun and shade and comes in this stunning tricolour too. Year round prettiness on a budget and very easy to grow. It can even be clipped into a foot high hedge and yes gives fragrant flowers all spring and summer.

Or there are the ever popular azalea's which aren't difficult to grow as long as you shade them from hot afternoon sun.

Your space can be more than just a dog patch. It can be a very pretty zen garden too that you could all enjoy.
Kerry Johnstone thanked HU-350531119
macyjean
3 years ago
Some plants are toxic and some plants are toxic to specific animals so check against a pet-friendly list before planting anything. The RSPCA can probably point you in the right direction.
Kerry Johnstone thanked macyjean
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Kerry Johnstone
Original Author
3 years ago
thank you - what great suggestions, I am going to go and start doing some research on them now :)

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