![]() praecox) is a low-growing semi-evergreen with pretty, little pink flowers that last most of the summer. Call attention to these tiniest of flowers by planting creepers near a rest area or under a garden bench.Ĭreeping pink thyme ( T. Low-growing creeping thyme can accent seating space. Stepping on the thymes compresses the foliage, releasing the oils from the leaf bottoms and creating a wonderful scent in the garden. The sun-loving thymes are an ideal groundcover and are great for rock gardens. Common thyme ( Thymus vulgaris) is a good first choice.Īn Old World Mediterranean member of the Labiatae, common thyme is also known as English thyme, garden thyme and mother-of-thyme. Among the most suitable for this purpose are the low-growing thymes, which have tiny fibrous roots that adapt quickly to rock gardens and walkways. Once established, some herbs planted between stepping stones can withstand occasional garden foot traffic without significant damage. While no plant is maintenance-free, the restricted growth area between pavers and foot traffic will tend to “prune” most plants. Though the tiny herbs look sparse, frugal planting now will save work in the long run with less thinning and trimming overgrown pathways. Be patient with this project, choosing to underplant rather than overplant herbs. Protect newly planted areas from heavy traffic and provide shade and adequate water, especially during the first growing season as the plants work to establish themselves. Pavers tend to protect the soil from erosion and retain moisture for the herbs while the herbs provide weed control between the pavers. Deer and rabbits do not care for this fragrant plant, but it can’t tolerate much foot traffic. Try several varieties of lavender to extend your bloom season and quickly discover which varieties do best in your location. Once established, lavender is tolerant of dry soil. A well-mulched lavender plant does not need much additional water in the summer. Mix in a handful of leaf mulch or other organic fertilizer to the planting hole. ![]() Consider that plants on a southern exposure must adapt not only to the limited space but also to the heat of sun-warmed stone.Ī south-facing wall, or any sunny place with well-drained soil, is a good location to plant lavender. Unless the wall is facing directly south, plants that thrive in shade or partial shade are best. Before planting in a retaining wall, observe how much sun or shade the plants will receive. Herbs planted in the crevices of a wall can dry out quickly. pulegium) is a mint family member ideal for the confined spaces between rock walls and sidewalks. Other fragrant citrus-mint choices, such as lime, orange and lemon mint, will grow in the same conditions as peppermint and spearmint. The best-known species are peppermint ( Mentha × piperita) and spearmint ( M. Give the Mentha genus a try in a confined space that will control the wide-spreading underground rhizomes. Do not overplant these miniature rock gardens if moisture and soil between the stones is limited.ĭrainage from the stones and the shade can provide a moist ground in front of retaining walls. Between a Rockīrushing against a retaining wall planted with herbs or stepping on low-growing herbs planted between a wall and the stepping stones releases their scents. Discover the ways to take advantage of these tight spaces. Little herbal gems tucked into stone crevices can define a stone pathway, lure walkers down rocky steps or highlight an unusual hardscape feature in a garden. With a little encouragement, fibrous-rooted herbs can provide fragrant weed control along walkways or the difficult-to-maintain areas between stone pavers. ![]() Some hardy herbs will grow almost anywhere there is soil, sun and a water source. If an unwanted plant appears to be growing out of nowhere, then a more desirable selection will probably grow there as well. If you’ve ever seen a determined dandelion growing out of the crack in a sidewalk, you understand the idea behind growing herbs in tight spaces.
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