plants for pathways

A beautiful garden path combines practicality with a touch of romance.

Whether it’s the track to the front door, a meander through trees and shrubs, a pathway through the vege beds, or the way to the clothes line, any well trodden path (and the plants we choose to accompany it) has the potential to be one of the most enticing features in a garden.

Well-laid paving is an asset in any garden. For most of us, employing a professional to do the job is a worthwhile investment, but there are still many decisions to make, and lots of surface materials to choose from. It’s worth remembering that expensive paving saves money in the long run as it is usually more durable as well as being easier and economical to maintain than cheaper options. However, when cash flow doesn’t allow a brand new path, an old one can be vastly improved with plants. Even an old cracked path or DIY crazy paving can be transformed with beautiful carpeting plants.

Many plants thrive when they share the same space as rocks, sleepers or paving slabs. Their roots delve below to the cool moist soil beneath the path, and find protection from frost as the path absorbs the suns warmth and radiates it at night.

It makes sense that we would plant some of our favourite plants where we pass most often, but certain attributes are worth thinking about when choosing plants to combine with paving.

Great plants for planting around paths and patios:

Are low growing with close packed growth to block weeds. Look good for most of the year. Look good when viewed from above. Smell good when walked on or brushed against.