How to Landscape for Sunny Areas

Measure the sunny area with a tape measure and create a diagram on graph paper. Draw the shape of each garden and the course of the walkway and additional features, such as fountains. For example, a 4-by-4 foot garden is enough space for a diverse selection of plants, but small enough that you can reach the center from all sides.

Mark the perimeters of each garden by placing a rock at each corner. Lay ropes parallel to mark the path of a walkway. Space the ropes at least 30 inches apart for a secondary path and 4 feet for a primary one.

Unearth grass and root systems from garden and walkway areas with a spade. Till the garden sites by turning over 8 inches of soil. Spread a 4-inch layer of equal parts compost and native top soil and till it into the dirt.

Dig a hole with a hand shovel for each plant as deep as the root system plus 1 inch, unless otherwise noted on the planting instructions. Plant the tallest growing flowers in back rows to allow for air flow and sun.

Install north-south trellises and plant fruit vines to attract bees like honeysuckle and porcelain berry vine.

Run a seeping hose from the water source to the gardens in order to prevent soil from drying out.

Tamp loose dirt over walkway sites with the back of the spade. Lay down landscape fabric across the bottom and spread 1/2 of grit sand over top. Place pieces of slate about 8 inches apart for a stepping stone path. Fill in the spaces between stones with mulch or pea gravel.