Gutter downspout plant Zone 5b and driveway corner

Watch Reply
More
Mark unread Print Skip to new
growinggold Indianapolis, IN Jun 30, 2011

What can I plant directly below a gutter downspout in zone 5b? I have about a 3x3 or 4x4 feet area so a small shrub or mounding plant would be best. The area gets plenty of sun. There is a hosta and a few lillies next to the spot. My top cover is 2-3'' of stone.

The other spot is a driveway corner. It is a small half circle that is maybe 14-15 inches from middle to concrete/ pavers. It also has 2-3'' layer of stone. Nothing but grass is near so I have no preference of plant type. It also gets sun all day.

I'm in Indiana so soil is mostly clay, but has some top soil / compost added. The neighbor also has a male dog with a large bladder...

Post #8665215
Quote
JulieQ Bella Vista, AR(Zone 6b) Jul 01, 2011

I can't quite picture your description. Can you post a pic or two?

Post #8665919
Quote
ecrane3 Dublin, CA(Zone 9a) Jul 01, 2011

Yes, pictures would definitely help! Also, there's not much you can plant that will hold up well if it's regularly "watered" by the neighbor's dog. So I'd look for a solution to keep the dog out of the area first before you think about planting things there.

Post #8665940
Quote
ViburnumValley Scott County, KY(Zone 5b) Jul 06, 2011

Several shrubs could fit in your downspout location (assuming you mean it is regularly wet).

•Clethra alnifolia
•Itea virginica
•Ilex verticillata, especially a smaller selection like 'Red Sprite' or 'Shortcake'

Post #8676968
Quote
velveteena Seattle, WA Aug 02, 2011

Dear Growing gold (better than growing gray, like me!),
Have you thought of rerouting your downspout to an area that would be more appreciative of the water? The hardware store has lots of inexpensive plastic tubes and pipes that could be adapted to this end. Also, if you use a rain barrel, an ordinary garden hose can be used to direct the flow to wherever you like. Preferably away from the house, I would imagine. Of course, I can't really address what might happen in the case of snow or hard freeze situations. Were you thinking of seasonal color, for instance, annuals or perennials? Close to the house, front, side, or back yard? If you just want wild vegetation in a bog, plant some mint. Mint is forever, and ever, and ever. If you have a basement, a bog is a VERY BAD THING near the house.

Post #8731425
Quote

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
Back to Forum Homepage

More Beginner Gardening Threads

Go to all Beginner Gardening threads
BACK TO TOP