I need some advice from experienced green thumb types please. We have just put in a lovely new lawn where we used to have a big bare courtyard, and I now need some plants to make it all come to life. Suggestions please!
My wish list/requirements are:
- A fast growing wall climber which keeps its leaves all year round. I have heard of one (has white flowers?) but I can't remember what it is called.
- A tree / large bush which will give us green all year round. At the moment we are all bare branches in the winter. But I really hate conifers. Is there another option? I wondered about holly or bay. Are there some others?
- A miniature climbing rose which will grow quickly over a trellis. ( Is there on without thorns?)
- Is it OK to put a magnolia in a big pot? i.e. a half barrel.
Please feel free to make any other suggestions. We have a blank canvas and a mix of sunny spots, walls and shady parts. Also feel free to mention anything we should avoid in order to keep the garden safe for DD (11 mths).