How to Select Shrubs

A shrub is loosely defined as any woody plant with multiple stems standing less than 15 feet in height, according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Shrubs can add interest and brighten any landscape with a variety of colors, textures, shapes and sizes. Don't skimp on the number of shrub species you select. Insects and diseases are more likely to damage your landscape if you rely on landscaping with only one or two types of shrubs.

Instructions

- 1
  Inspect the landscape to assess the sunlight and soil conditions. Check the soil pH, nutrient levels, and soil type. Determine whether the soil is wet or dry to ensure that the shrubs you select will thrive.
- 2
  Find your plant hardiness zone on the United States Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map. It allows you to select shrubs that tolerate the seasonal weather changes and temperatures in your area.
- 3
  Check the amount of growing space available for the shrubs. Select shrubs based on their mature size to avoid shrubs that may become too big or too small for the area.
- 4
  Look at the surrounding area to help you decide the purpose of the shrubs being selected for the area. Choose shrubs with colorful flowers or fruit to use as a specimen or accent in your landscape. Choose shrubs with dense foliage as a hedge to block views from neighbors or the street, or shrubs in a variety of sizes to hide the foundation of a building.
- 5
  Select shrubs for the landscape based on the amount of care they need and the amount of care you can provide. If you have a busy lifestyle, high-maintenance shrubs may become neglected.

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