Plantings designed by garden designer Christine Ellis complement a 1960s house.If you're trying to make your home look its best but your outdoor fix-up budget is tight, focus your attention on the foundation planting.
Nothing dates a home as much as old, overgrown foundation shrubs or trees that block windows, darken interiors and give otherwise lovely houses a dark and brooding look.
The planting often is less than inventive -- a row of evergreens, usually rhododendrons. While rhododendrons are splendid, a little diversity makes things more interesting.
Dwarf conifers, grasses or smaller shrubs that can be trusted not to outgrow their space are among the many options for a fresher look.
-- Homes & Gardens staff
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