A new border is one of the most satisfying garden projects, but buying plants on impulse often leads to gaps, clashes and disappointments. Planning first saves money and gives a border that looks good for more of the year. This guide takes you from blank space to planted border.
Step by step
Assess the site
Check how many hours of sun the area gets, what the soil is like and whether it is sheltered or exposed. These conditions decide which plants will thrive, so write them down before you shop.
Mark out the shape
Use a hosepipe or string to mark the edge of the border and view it from the house and seating areas. Make it deep enough for layers of planting; narrow borders are harder to make look full.
Clear and improve the soil
Remove turf and perennial weeds, including their roots. Spread a generous layer of garden compost or well-rotted organic matter, and avoid working the soil when it is wet.
Draw a planting plan
Sketch the border on paper. Place taller plants at the back or middle, medium in the middle and low at the front. Include a structure of shrubs or evergreens, then perennials and bulbs that flower at different times. Repeat a few plants along the border for a coherent look.
Buy and set out the plants
Buy plants that match your conditions, allowing for their final spread rather than their size in the pot. Set them out in their pots on the soil following your plan and adjust before planting.
Plant, water and mulch
Water plants in their pots first. Plant each one at the same depth it was growing, firm the soil gently and water well. Mulch between plants and keep watering in dry spells during the first year.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Notes on sun, soil and shelter
- Hosepipe or string to mark the shape
- Spade, fork and rake
- Garden compost or organic matter
- Planting plan on paper
- Plants suited to your conditions
- Mulch and watering can
Practical tips
- Plant in groups of three or five of the same plant for more impact.
- Leave gaps for plants to grow into and fill temporarily with annuals.
- Autumn and spring are usually the best times to plant most perennials and shrubs.
Common problems
Some new plants are wilting and dying. What went wrong?
New plants often struggle from lack of water in their first season, or they may not suit the site. Water deeply in dry spells and move any plant that is in the wrong conditions.
Weeds are coming back through the border. What can I do?
Perennial weed roots may have been left behind. Dig them out as soon as they appear and keep a thick mulch between plants.
The border looks bare for part of the year. How can I fix it?
Note when the gaps occur and add plants or bulbs that flower or look good at those times, such as evergreens for winter structure.