How do you landscape a narrow space?

Landscaping a narrow space can seem daunting, but with some creative thinking and careful plant selection, even the skinniest side yard, walkway, or odd-shaped patio can be transformed into an inviting oasis. The key is working with the dimensions you have rather than fighting against them. By embracing vertical gardening techniques, choosing compact and narrow plant varieties, and incorporating multifunctional features, a slender space can take on a whole new personality. Read on for tips and ideas to make the most of a slim landscape!

What are some good plants for narrow spaces?

When dealing with a skinny site, look for plants that have a narrow, columnar growth habit or that naturally stay more compact. Here are some great options:

• Ornamental grasses like maiden grass (Miscanthus sinensis) or fountain grass (Pennisetum spp.)
• Columnar evergreen trees like arborvitae (Thuja spp.) or Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
• Narrow shrubs like holly (Ilex spp.), boxwood (Buxus spp.), and yew (Taxus spp.)
• Perennials like lavender, sage, thyme, ornamental onions
• Vining plants like clematis and climbing roses on trellises
• Espaliered fruit trees and vines

Stick with smaller varieties of plants whenever possible. For example, dwarf hinoki cypress or columnar European hornbeam make great substitutes for full-size trees. Also look for cultivars described as “compact”, “dwarf”, “narrow”, or “columnar”.

How can I create privacy in a narrow space?

Privacy can still be achieved in a thin space through smart plant choices and strategic fences, screens, and trellises:

• Use fast-growing trees like Leyland cypress or arborvitae to quickly fill vertical space.
• Plant a dense, staggered row of narrow evergreens like emeral arborvitae or skyrocket juniper.
• Add lattice panels, bamboo fencing, or privacy slats to fences or walls.
• Install a living wall of vines like Boston ivy or Virginia creeper.
• Use strategically placed trellises or screens to divide zones and hide unattractive views.
• Layer plantings with taller options in back and smaller plants in front for a lush, filled-in look.

What types of structures work well in narrow spaces?

Structures like pergolas, arbors, and trellises add vertical interest while taking up minimal ground space. Consider adding:

• An overhead pergola dressed in vines for seasonal interest.
• Clematis-covered obelisks as striking focal points.
• An arbor marking the entrance to a skinny pathway or garden room.
• Trellises forclimbers like roses, grapes, or hyacinth beans.
• Window boxes and wall-mounted planters at varying heights.

For horizontal spaces like paths or patios, a long, skinny fire pit, water feature, or built-in seating can help fill the space. Just be sure to leave adequate room for movement and maintenance access.

How can I make a narrow garden feel bigger?

There are several tricks that can make a slim space appear larger and feel more expansive:

• Use groundcovers like thyme or Scotch moss rather than mulch for a seamless look.
• Paint fences, walls, and structures lighter colors to prevent closing in the space.
• Keep furnishings and features to a minimum to avoid clutter.
• Extend the garden along one long path or repeating axis.
• Blur boundaries with organic shapes and billowing plants.
• Use trellises, mirrors, and arbors to create the illusion of depth.
• Open up views with transparent garden gates or fences.

What ideas work well for narrow backyards?

For a skinny backyard, think outside the box to make the most of the limited square footage:

• Tuck a bistro dining set into an intimate corner.
• Create secluded garden rooms connected by meandering paths.
• Install raised planting beds for vegetables and herbs.
• Opt for dining bars and built-in seating rather than space-hogging tables.
• Set up an alley lawn for kids to play away from fences.
• Go vertical with vines, trellises, wall plantings, and tall narrow pots.

Also be strategic with flooring materials – a lined path edged with pavers can feel more open than a space covered entirely in decking. And be sure to leave room for practical needs like trash cans and storage.

What are good plants for narrow side yards?

Side yards often get very little direct sunlight, so it’s important to pick shade-tolerant plants. Some top options include:

• Ferns
• Caladium
• Impatiens
• Hosta
• Astilbe
• Coral bells (Heuchera)
• Foamflower (Tiarella)
• Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra)
• Hellebore
• Sweetbox (Sarcococca)

Also make use of variegated plants to brighten shady spots. Evergreen choices like boxwood, axillary’s tern, and Japanese skimmia will maintain presence through winter.

How can I landscape a narrow alleyway?

Skinny alleyways can become charming micro-gardens by incorporating features like these:

• Line the ground with brick, stone, or gravel.
• Add container plants, wall planters, or vertical gardens.
• Install strings of cafe lights overhead.
• Build a slender water feature or wall fountain.
• Tuck in whimsical garden art and rustic elements.
• Paint or stencil designs on the walls and fences.
• Top with pergolas or trellises.

Just be sure to leave adequate room for foot traffic. Or transform the alley into a single-file walking path linking other garden spaces.

How can I maximize a narrow patio or balcony?

When furnishing a skinny patio or balcony, flexibility is key. Opt for moveable chairs and tables that can be shifted around rather than bulky built-in seating. Other space-saving ideas include:

• Folding bistro sets
• Nested tables and stacking chairs
• Benches with built-in storage
• Small space-saving patio sets
• Counter-height bar table and stools
• Vertical gardening with hanging or wall-mounted planters

For a seamless look, match the color of furnishings to the flooring. And stick with just the essential pieces – you don’t need a full dining set if you’ll mainly use the space for drinks.

Conclusion

Landscaping a narrow area may take some creative problem-solving, but the designs can be just as stunning as larger sites. The key is keeping things simple and tailored to fit the long, lean dimensions. Embrace vertical gardening, choose slim plant varieties, and incorporate multi-use furnishings and features. With the right scale and layout, even the skinniest landscape can make a bold statement.