So, I had to dig up my front garden for parking space (not ideal, I know), but I tried to make it look nice by surrounding the new paved area with planter-walls for some shrubs. I've got two sides with different plants, but for the last side, which is near the living room window and has the wheelie bins, I wanted a privacy hedge. I chose Skimmia because I thought it would thrive in my north-facing planter-wall, but honestly, it has been the worst performer. After two long years, it has only grown about 5cm despite flowering a lot. Should I just give up and start fresh? Also, does anyone want to take 14 Skimmia plants off my hands?
1 Answer
You know, when you're starting out, a lot of plants focus on establishing their root systems in the first couple of years. By the third year, they'll usually start growing more on top. I'd say hang in there with your Skimmia; you might see some improvement soon!
That's reassuring to hear! I was nervous that I had made a bad choice with my shrubs.
Yeah, totally agree! There's that saying about perennials: first year sleep, second year creep, third year leap. They could be just gearing up to take off this season!