5 Plantings to Help Soften Any Sharp Edges of Your Retaining Wall in Olathe, KS
Retaining walls are functional structures that help in soil retention and water management, but they have the potential to be harsh or uninviting due to their rigid construction. By incorporating various plantings, you can transform a stark retaining wall into an appealing garden feature that blends seamlessly with your landscape in Olathe, KS.
Related: Ideas for Plantings That Add Shade and Privacy in the Platte City and Kansas City, MO Areas
Creeping Plants
Creeping plants are excellent for softening the hard edges of a retaining wall, as they can spill over the sides, creating a beautiful cascading effect. Creeping Phlox is a popular option with its vibrant flowers that can add a splash of color. Trailing Rosemary, another excellent choice, not only looks beautiful with its blue flowers but adds a pleasant aroma to your outdoor space.
Shrubs and Bushes
Shrubs and bushes can be strategically placed near the sharp edges of the wall, providing a soft buffer and visual interest. Boxwood Shrubs are versatile and can be shaped to your preference, while Juniper Bushes with their dense, feathery foliage, offer a more natural way to soften the appearance of the wall.
Tall and Flowing Grasses
Grasses like Maiden Grass with its tall, graceful stems or Blue Fescue with its unique bluish tint can complement the straight lines of the wall while bringing a touch of softness. Their movement in the wind adds dynamism and elegance to the landscape.
Flowering Perennials
Flowering perennials can bring life and color to a retaining wall. Options like Daylilies, with their bright, trumpet-shaped flowers, or Lavender, with its stunning purple blooms, can thrive even in the challenging growing conditions near retaining walls.
Vines and Climbers
Vines and climbers can transform a rigid wall into a lush, green structure. Clematis, with its large, beautiful flowers, can be trained to climb the wall, while Ivy offers a classic look that can cling to and cover the wall completely.
Integrating Water Features
Water features such as fountains, ponds, or waterfalls can be paired with a retaining wall to add a sense of tranquility and luxury to your outdoor space. The sound of flowing water not only creates a soothing ambiance but also acts as a focal point that draws attention away from the rigid structure of the wall. A well-designed waterfall cascading over the retaining wall, for instance, can create a stunning visual effect.
Adding Seating Areas
Incorporating seating areas near or even within the retaining wall can transform it into a functional outdoor living space. Benches or built-in seating around a fire pit can provide a cozy spot for relaxation and socializing. Such additions turn the retaining wall from merely a functional element to an inviting gathering place.
Including Artistic Elements
Artistic elements like sculptures, mosaic tiles, or decorative stones can add personality and flair to the surroundings of a retaining wall. By selecting pieces that resonate with the overall theme of your landscape, you can create a cohesive look that enhances the visual appeal of the entire area.
Installing Ambient Lighting
Strategically placed lighting can highlight the soft contours created by the plantings and also emphasize other features around the retaining wall. Whether it's illuminating the path along the wall, highlighting a water feature, or casting a warm glow on seating areas, lighting adds depth and a sense of enchantment to your outdoor space during the evenings.
Connecting Paths and Walkways
Creating paths and walkways that meander around the retaining wall and connect various features in the garden fosters a sense of exploration and cohesion. Using materials that complement the retaining wall, such as flagstone or brick, ensures a unified appearance.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
John T. Hermes, our founder, was a man with a dream and a remarkable blend of business acumen and agricultural passion. After graduating from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Agriculture, he spent a decade in agriculture chemical sales and the military before founding Country Fair Lawns in 1965, which later became Hermes Landscaping. Despite his passing, his vision and passion continue to drive the Hermes team, inspiring them to uphold his legacy and commitment to excellence in the company's endeavors.
