What Shrubs To Plant In Front Of House

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Chicagolandgardening.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Welcome to the world of gardening! Planning your garden can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. One key element to consider when designing your garden is choosing the right shrubs to plant in front of your house. Shrubs not only enhance the visual appeal of your home but also provide privacy, shade, and even attract beneficial wildlife. With a wide variety of options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

Before diving into the world of shrubs, it’s important to consider a few factors. Firstly, think about the climate and the specific conditions of your area. Some shrubs thrive in full sun, while others prefer the shade. Additionally, you’ll want to evaluate the soil type and drainage of your garden to ensure the plant’s needs are met.

Another aspect to consider is the purpose of the shrubs. Are you looking to create a stunning display of colorful flowers or do you need a low-maintenance option that requires minimal care? Determining your desired outcome will help guide your selection process.

Now, let’s explore the different types of shrubs that you can plant in front of your house. From evergreen shrubs that provide year-round beauty to flowering shrubs that burst with color, there is a wide range of options to suit your preferences and meet your garden’s needs. Whether you have a sunny spot or a shady corner, there are shrubs that will thrive in various conditions.

In this article, we will discuss some of the best shrubs for front yard landscaping, taking into account different factors such as shade, sun exposure, privacy, and curb appeal. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of the shrubs that will bring beauty and functionality to your front garden, making it a welcoming and attractive space for all to enjoy.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing Shrubs

Before diving into the world of shrubs, there are a few important factors to consider when selecting the right ones for your front garden. These factors will help ensure that the shrubs you choose not only thrive in your garden but also meet your specific needs and preferences.

Climate: The climate of your region plays a crucial role in determining which shrubs will thrive in your garden. Some shrubs are better suited to hot and dry climates, while others prefer cool and moist conditions. Research the hardiness zone of your area to identify shrubs that are well-suited to your specific climate.

Soil Type and Drainage: Different shrubs have different soil preferences. Some prefer well-draining soil, while others thrive in moist and rich soil. Evaluate the soil type in your garden and choose shrubs that will grow well in those conditions. You can also amend the soil if necessary to improve its fertility and drainage.

Sun Exposure: Consider the amount of sunlight your front garden receives throughout the day. Some shrubs require full sun, while others thrive in partial shade or even full shade. Assess the sun exposure in different areas of your garden and choose shrubs accordingly.

Maintenance: Think about the level of maintenance you are willing to invest in your front garden. Some shrubs require regular pruning, fertilizing, and watering, while others are more low-maintenance. If you have limited time or prefer a hands-off approach, look for shrubs that are known for their adaptability and minimal care requirements.

Height and Spread: Consider the eventual size of the shrubs and their growth habit. Some shrubs tend to spread outwards, while others grow tall and narrow. Take into account the available space in your front garden and choose shrubs that will fit well and not overpower the area.

Purpose: Determine the purpose you want the shrubs to serve in your front garden. Are you looking for shrubs that provide privacy, attract wildlife, or create a focal point? Understanding the purpose will help you narrow down your choices and select shrubs that align with your goals.

By taking these factors into consideration, you can make an informed decision when choosing shrubs for your front garden. This thoughtful planning will ensure that the shrubs you select not only thrive in your garden but also enhance the overall beauty and functionality of your outdoor space.

Evergreen Shrubs

Evergreen shrubs are a fantastic addition to your front garden as they provide year-round beauty and maintain their foliage even in the colder months. These shrubs are known for their ability to retain their leaves, offering both structure and color throughout the year. Whether you want to create a backdrop for other plants or add a touch of greenery to your garden, here are a few popular evergreen shrubs to consider:

1. Boxwood (Buxus): Boxwood is a classic choice for evergreen shrubs. With its dense foliage and compact growth habit, it is perfect for creating formal hedges or borders in your front garden. Boxwood is versatile and can be easily shaped to fit your desired design.
2. Holly (Ilex): Holly is a traditional evergreen shrub known for its glossy green leaves and vibrant red berries. It adds a festive touch to your front garden during the holiday season. Different varieties of holly offer various sizes and growth habits, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your garden.
3. Arborvitae (Thuja): Arborvitae is a popular choice for adding height and privacy to your front garden. These coniferous evergreen shrubs feature dense foliage that grows in a pyramidal shape. They are excellent for creating a natural screen or windbreak.
4. Yew (Taxus): Yew shrubs are known for their dark green, needle-like foliage and versatile growth habit. They can be used as hedges, groundcovers, or even shaped into topiaries. Yew is a low-maintenance shrub that is tolerant of various soil conditions.
5. Rhododendron: Rhododendrons produce stunning clusters of flowers in vibrant colors, making them a popular choice for adding a burst of color to your front garden. These evergreen shrubs thrive in partial shade and require well-draining soil.

These are just a few examples of evergreen shrubs that can bring year-round beauty to your front garden. When selecting evergreen shrubs, consider their growth rate, mature size, and maintenance requirements. It’s also important to make sure they are suitable for your specific climate and the available space in your front garden.

By incorporating evergreen shrubs into your front garden, you can create a visually pleasing landscape that remains attractive throughout the year. These shrubs not only provide structure but also serve as a backdrop for other flowering plants and add a touch of greenery to your outdoor space.

Flowering Shrubs

Flowering shrubs are a wonderful way to add vibrant colors and fragrance to your front garden. These shrubs not only provide visual interest but also attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. With a wide variety of options to choose from, you can create a stunning display of blooms throughout the growing season. Here are a few popular flowering shrubs to consider:

1. Rose (Rosa): Roses are classic flowering shrubs known for their exquisite beauty and fragrance. Whether you choose hybrid teas, floribundas, or climbers, roses come in a wide range of colors and bloom shapes. They require regular maintenance, such as pruning and fertilizing, but the reward is a garden filled with stunning blooms.
2. Lilac (Syringa): Lilacs are beloved for their fragrant, cone-shaped flower clusters that bloom in shades of purple, pink, and white. These shrubs are not only beautiful but also easy to care for. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil.
3. Hydrangea: Hydrangeas are versatile flowering shrubs that come in a variety of colors, including whites, pinks, blues, and purples. The large, showy flower heads create a stunning display in your front garden. Hydrangeas thrive in partial shade and require regular watering.
4. Azalea (Rhododendron): Azaleas are known for their spectacular display of colorful flowers in spring. These flowering shrubs prefer acidic soil and partial shade. With their vibrant blooms, azaleas add a pop of color to your front garden.
5. Weigela: Weigela shrubs produce trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red, pink, or white. These low-maintenance shrubs attract hummingbirds and are a great choice for adding color and texture to your front garden.

When selecting flowering shrubs, consider their bloom time, size, and maintenance requirements. It’s important to choose shrubs that bloom at different times throughout the year to ensure a continuous display of flowers. Additionally, take into account the mature size of the shrubs and ensure they fit well within your front garden.

By incorporating flowering shrubs into your front garden, you can create a beautiful and inviting space. The bursts of color and fragrant blooms will not only delight you but also attract beneficial pollinators, making your garden a haven for wildlife.

Dwarf Shrubs

Dwarf shrubs are a great option for those with limited space or for those who prefer a smaller, more compact garden. These compact-sized shrubs offer all the benefits of their larger counterparts but in a more manageable and space-efficient package. Here are a few popular dwarf shrubs to consider for your front garden:

1. Dwarf Boxwood (Buxus): Dwarf boxwood is a compact version of the classic boxwood shrub. It maintains the same dense foliage and formal appearance but in a smaller size. Dwarf boxwood is ideal for creating low hedges, borders, or even topiaries.
2. Dwarf Korean Lilac (Syringa meyeri): The Dwarf Korean Lilac is a compact shrub that produces clusters of fragrant flowers in shades of lavender. It has a slow growth rate, making it an excellent choice for small gardens or container planting.
3. Dwarf Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Dwarf lavender is a wonderful option for those who love the scent and beauty of lavender but have limited space. These compact shrubs produce fragrant flowers and can be used as a border plant, container plant, or even as a low hedge.
4. Dwarf Itea (Itea virginica): The dwarf variety of Itea is a compact shrub that produces delicate white flowers in spring. It thrives in moist soil and partial shade. Dwarf Itea adds texture and interest to your front garden without taking up too much space.
5. Dwarf Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus): The dwarf version of the Burning Bush shrub offers the same vibrant red foliage in a more compact size. It is an excellent choice for adding a pop of color to your front garden and works well in small landscapes or as a focal point.

When selecting dwarf shrubs, consider their mature size, growth habit, and maintenance requirements. Dwarf shrubs are generally easier to maintain due to their smaller size. They are also more suitable for container gardening or small gardens where space is at a premium.

By incorporating dwarf shrubs into your front garden, you can create a visually pleasing and well-balanced landscape even in limited space. These compact-sized shrubs offer all the benefits of their larger counterparts while maintaining a smaller footprint.

Shrubs for Shade

If your front garden is predominantly shaded or receives limited direct sunlight, there are still plenty of beautiful shrubs that will thrive in these conditions. Shade-loving shrubs can bring life and color to those shady corners of your garden. Here are a few popular options to consider for your front garden:

1. Fatsia (Fatsia japonica): Fatsia is a versatile shade-loving shrub that features large, glossy leaves. It adds a tropical touch to your front garden and thrives in partial to full shade. Fatsia is a low-maintenance shrub that can tolerate various soil conditions.
2. Aucuba (Aucuba japonica): Aucuba is a tough and resilient evergreen shrub that thrives in shade. It features variegated leaves and produces colorful berries in fall. Aucuba is an excellent choice for adding texture and interest to shaded areas.
3. Japanese Pieris (Pieris japonica): Japanese Pieris is an elegant evergreen shrub that thrives in filtered shade. It produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers in early spring and has striking foliage. This shrub is perfect for adding a touch of beauty to shaded areas.
4. Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla): Hydrangeas are known for their showy flower heads and thrive in partial shade. The mophead and lacecap varieties are especially well-suited to shaded areas. They create a beautiful display of blooms and add a touch of elegance to your front garden.
5. Camellia (Camellia japonica): Camellias are beloved for their remarkable flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, and white. They thrive in partially shaded areas and bring a splash of color to your front garden, especially during the late winter and early spring months.

When selecting shrubs for shade, it’s important to consider their specific light requirements. Some shade-loving shrubs can tolerate dappled sunlight, while others prefer deep shade. Additionally, make sure the soil in the shaded area is well-draining to prevent waterlogged conditions.

These shade-loving shrubs will transform your front garden into a beautiful oasis, even in areas with limited sunlight. They add texture, color, and visual interest to shady corners, making your outdoor space feel lush and inviting.

Shrubs for Sun

If your front garden is blessed with ample sunlight, you have a wide variety of shrubs to choose from. Sun-loving shrubs thrive in full sun exposure and can bring vibrant colors and texture to your outdoor space. Here are a few popular options to consider for your sunny front garden:

1. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii): Butterfly bush is a sun-loving shrub that produces fragrant flowers in a variety of colors, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden. It blooms throughout the summer and adds a burst of color to your front garden.
2. Knock Out Rose (Rosa ‘Knock Out’): Knock Out roses are hardy and disease-resistant shrubs that produce a continuous display of blooms throughout the season. They come in different colors, including red, pink, and yellow, and are a reliable choice for sunny areas.
3. Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia): Summersweet is a sun-loving shrub that thrives in moist soil. It produces fragrant spikes of flowers in shades of white or pink during the summer months. Summersweet is an excellent choice for attracting pollinators to your front garden.
4. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia): Russian sage is a drought-tolerant shrub that thrives in sunny and dry conditions. It features gray-green foliage and produces tall spikes of lavender-blue flowers. Russian sage adds texture and a touch of elegance to your front garden.
5. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Rosemary is not only a culinary herb but also a sun-loving shrub that adds fragrance and texture to your front garden. It features aromatic foliage and delicate blue flowers. Rosemary thrives in hot and sunny conditions with well-draining soil.

When selecting shrubs for a sunny location, consider their heat and drought tolerance. Sun-loving shrubs are generally more resilient to high temperatures and require less water once established. However, it’s still important to provide regular watering, especially during dry spells.

These sun-loving shrubs will add beauty and vibrancy to your front garden, thriving in the abundance of sunlight. Whether you want to attract pollinators, create a colorful display, or add texture to your landscape, these shrubs will make your sunny garden a haven of beauty.

Low Maintenance Shrubs

If you’re looking to minimize the time and effort required for your front garden’s upkeep, low-maintenance shrubs are the way to go. These shrubs are perfect for busy gardeners or those who simply prefer a more hands-off approach to gardening. Here are a few popular low maintenance shrubs to consider:

1. Spirea (Spiraea): Spirea is a hardy shrub that requires minimal care. It comes in various sizes and produces clusters of colorful flowers. Spirea is drought-tolerant and relatively pest-resistant, making it an ideal choice for a low-maintenance front garden.
2. Barberry (Berberis): Barberry shrubs are known for their vibrant foliage and thorny branches, which act as a natural deterrent for pests and intruders. They are drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and require minimal pruning. Barberry shrubs are available in a variety of colors and sizes.
3. Juniper (Juniperus): Junipers are hardy evergreen shrubs that are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. They come in different shapes and sizes, including groundcovers, mounding varieties, and tall columnar forms. Junipers provide year-round greenery and require minimal pruning.
4. Japanese Spindle (Euonymus japonicus): Japanese spindle is a versatile shrub that tolerates a variety of soil conditions and requires minimal care. It features glossy evergreen leaves and produces small flowers and colorful fruit. Japanese spindle can be left unpruned or easily maintained at a desired size.
5. Inkberry (Ilex glabra): Inkberry is a low-maintenance shrub that is adaptable to a wide range of soil types and growing conditions. It features dark green foliage and produces small, inconspicuous flowers. Inkberry is a versatile shrub that can be used as a hedge or mass planting.

When selecting low-maintenance shrubs, consider their adaptability to your specific climate and soil conditions. Look for shrubs that are pest-resistant, drought-tolerant, and require minimal pruning. These low-maintenance options will save you time and effort while still adding beauty and greenery to your front garden.

With low-maintenance shrubs, you can still enjoy a beautiful front garden without the constant upkeep. These shrubs require little attention and are a perfect choice for those who want to spend more time enjoying their outdoor space rather than tending to it.

Shrubs for Privacy

If you desire more privacy in your front garden or wish to create a natural screen, there are several shrubs that can serve this purpose. These shrubs offer not only privacy but also beauty and greenery to your outdoor space. Here are a few popular options for shrubs that provide privacy:

1. Arborvitae (Thuja): Arborvitae is a popular choice for creating a dense privacy hedge. These evergreen shrubs come in various varieties and sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your front garden. Arborvitae shrubs thrive in full sun to partial shade and require minimal maintenance.
2. Bamboo (Bambusoideae): Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that can create a natural privacy screen. However, it’s important to choose a clumping variety rather than a running type to prevent it from becoming invasive. Bamboo thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering.
3. Privet (Ligustrum): Privet shrubs are known for their dense foliage and fast growth, making them an excellent choice for a privacy hedge. They come in different varieties, with Wax Leaf Privet (Ligustrum japonicum) being a popular option. Privet shrubs prefer full sun to partial shade and require regular pruning.
4. Holly (Ilex): Holly shrubs, particularly the British holly (Ilex aquifolium), provide both privacy and beauty to your front garden. With their spiky, evergreen foliage, holly shrubs create a natural barrier. They prefer partial shade and regular watering.
5. Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus): Rose of Sharon is a flowering shrub that can be grown as a hedge for privacy. It produces beautiful blooms in various colors during the summer months and can reach a substantial height. Rose of Sharon thrives in full sun and requires regular pruning.

When selecting shrubs for privacy, consider their growth rate and ultimate height. Ensure that they are suitable for the available space in your front garden and that they provide the necessary coverage for your desired level of privacy. Be mindful of any maintenance requirements, such as pruning or watering, to ensure the shrubs remain healthy and attractive.

With the right shrubs, you can create a private sanctuary in your front garden while adding greenery and beauty to the space. These shrubs not only provide privacy but also enhance the overall aesthetics of your outdoor area.

Shrubs for Curb Appeal

When it comes to creating a visually appealing front garden, shrubs play a crucial role in enhancing the curb appeal of your home. Selecting the right shrubs can add color, texture, and structure, making your front garden a welcoming and attractive space. Here are a few popular options for shrubs that can boost your home’s curb appeal:

1. Rose (Rosa): Roses are classic flowering shrubs that epitomize beauty and elegance. Their vibrant and fragrant blooms make a stunning statement in any front garden. Choose hybrid tea roses or floribundas for a more formal look or climbing roses to add vertical interest to your home.
2. Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla): Hydrangeas are versatile shrubs known for their large, showy flower heads. They come in various colors, including blues, pinks, whites, and purples. Hydrangeas create a soft and romantic look, adding charm and beauty to your front garden.
3. Boxwood (Buxus): Boxwood shrubs are renowned for their formal and polished appearance, making them a popular choice for creating well-defined hedges or geometric shapes. Their ability to retain their foliage year-round adds structure and elegance to your front garden.
4. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum): Japanese maple shrubs are known for their stunning foliage, which comes in various colors, including red, burgundy, and green. Their leaf textures and delicate forms create a sense of tranquility and sophistication in your front garden.
5. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii): Butterfly bush is a shrub that not only adds vibrant color to your front garden but also attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Its long, cone-shaped flower clusters create a delightful display and add a touch of liveliness to your outdoor space.

When choosing shrubs for curb appeal, consider their growth habit, bloom time, and overall maintenance requirements. Select shrubs that complement the architectural style of your home and the overall theme of your front garden. Also, take into account the available space and ensure that the shrubs will fit harmoniously within your outdoor area.

With the right selection of shrubs, you can create a front garden that enhances the curb appeal of your home. These shrubs add beauty, charm, and character, making a lasting impression on visitors and passersby.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shrubs for your front garden is an essential aspect of creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to enhance curb appeal, provide privacy, add color and fragrance, or create a low-maintenance oasis, there is a wide variety of shrubs to suit your needs and preferences.

Before selecting shrubs, consider factors such as climate, soil type, sun exposure, and maintenance requirements. Assess the purpose you want the shrubs to serve, whether it’s creating a focal point, attracting wildlife, or adding structure to your garden.

Evergreen shrubs provide year-round beauty and maintain their foliage even in the colder months, while flowering shrubs burst with vibrant colors and fragrance. Dwarf shrubs are perfect for those with limited space, and shade-loving shrubs thrive in areas with limited direct sunlight.

If you desire a low-maintenance garden, choose shrubs that require minimal care and attention. For privacy, select shrubs that create a natural screen and offer tranquility. And if you want to boost the curb appeal of your home, there are shrubs that add charm and visual interest.

By carefully selecting and incorporating these different types of shrubs into your front garden, you can create a visually stunning and functional outdoor space that brings joy and beauty throughout the year.

So, roll up your sleeves, dig into the world of shrubs, and let your front garden become a vibrant, welcoming, and captivating space for all to enjoy. Happy gardening!