You should not plant shrubs next to the foundation because you need to allow room for them to grow, even if you intend to trim them. Check the mature size of the shrubs before you buy and plant. Leaving at least a two foot gap between the foundation and a plant bed will also allow room to manuever during house maintenance. The other item to consider is the slope of the ground. Keep the soil nearest the house slightly higher than the outer edge of your bed. Landscapes are purposely laid out that way to direct water away from the foundation. You do not want to have rocks in a plant bed. Nor do you want to use cocoa bean mulch in a protected area near your home. It will mold. Shredded bark is a good mulch. It will gradually decompose and add to the soil. In the meantime, it keeps the soil moist and weeds down. Prior to planting is a great time to work compost into the area and have the soil tested through your local Cooperative Extension Service office.

Browse related Faqs by tag: horticulture, landscaping, foundation plantings