Planting Arrangements for Zone 5

Balanced Look

• A landscape with a balanced design will have plants -- shrubs, bushes and flowers -- that are similar on both sides of the home. A focal point -- a visually appealing tree or shrub -- is usually included and serves as an anchor for the design. Ideal anchors for zone 5 include an apple (Malus domestica), pear (Pyrus) or cherry (Prunus) tree, hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla), Daphne (Thymelaeaceae) or lilac (Syringa). Each of these selections will thrive in zone 5, and provide visual interest for a landscape.

Asymmetrical Look

• An asymmetrical look is much more flexible than the symmetrical style. It is ideal for yards that are not symmetrical or present problem spots. The appearance is informal, making it a bit more personal and fun for gardeners. Plants in this design are put in randomly, and may include large or medium shrubs, trees or flowers. Generally, flowering shrubs are ideal for filling gaps, while flowers are used to add color and a final touch. To keep it from looking sloppy, a focal point or repeated color should be considered. Asters, black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta ) and coreopsis are ideal for full sun, while sedum (Sedum ochroleucum), geranium and phlox will thrive in partial sun. Shadier spots are ideal for astilbe, bleeding heart (Dicentra Spectabilis) and hostas.

Traditional Look

• There are a few elements required to complete a traditional landscape. The most important is organizing plants in such a way that the tallest are in back, and shortest are in the front. Small plants are used for borders, and there may or may not be a focal point. The selection of shrubs, flowers and trees vary greatly for zone 5, but a well-planned garden will include pieces that work for all seasons. Incorporate a few evergreen shrubs or small trees; holly (Ilex) is ideal and will add both glossy green leaves throughout the year, and some bold red berries during the fall or early winter. Consider adding plant varieties that are aesthetically appealing during each season.

Material Selection

• Softscaping is the part of landscaping that includes greenery like shrubs, trees, flowers, grass and groundcover. Selection should be done carefully throughout zone 5, as yards will have varying amounts of sun exposure, water availability and soil types. It is important to take these factors into consideration before planting anything. Trees will serve as dominant features in any yard, and as such selecting something that is visually appealing and appropriate for the space is necessary. If little cleanup is desired, for example, there are some trees that will do better than others.

  Hardscaping includes everything else; bricks, stones or pavers for walkways, driveway materials and anything used for bordering the yard. These products are available in a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes, and work to pull the look together.