A collage of variegated gold-and-
green consisting of Lysimachia
congestiflora and creeping Jenny.

The Planting o' the Green

• Choose green arbors, benches, fencing, furniture, and containers whenever possible. They'll enhance nearby flower colors.
• Contrast different shades of green foliage in deep shade, where some of the showiest flowering plants won't thrive. Use chartreuse, yellow, and variegated green-white or yellow-green foliage plants for the most pronounced effects. Add light-color statuary, a birdbath, a bench, or a temporary pot of vibrant flowers to make this area of your garden shine.
• Green flowers offer novel appeal. Try viburnum, lady's mantle, tulip, hellebore, bells of Ireland, and hydrangea. These make great cut flowers, too.
• Many plants lend their names to shades of green, including pea, olive, fern, bean, lime, kiwi, mint, and ivy. It's no wonder there's a green named spring!

Related Feature: Growing Heathers and Heaths