Suggestions for a small area

I have a couple of bushes at the side of my small front lawn. I keep trying things to fill the gap, but it usually ends up a mess, like this:

http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=1058hsw&s=2

It never gets full sun, so will need plants that are happy to be in the shade, low maintenance and non-invasive of the lawn.

 

Hi Graham I'ave found a web site that might be of some help to you as there is a lovely picture of the plants and shrubs as well as details of their requirements.

Shade loving plants & more!
Helen.xxx.

 

Thanks, just what I need. I shall browse and select, then go and look in Dobbies up the road. Is this a good time of year for planting, and do I need to test the soil?

 

Hello again Graham I don't bother to do any testing of the soil although if you have clay type then added some compost and giving it a good dig over will help your plants in the long run.

Regarding Dobbies that wouldn't be the new one at Balbourgh would it?
Although Dobbies have a good selection of plants and have a few tester gardens laid out, you really are paying through the teeth with their prices.

If the Dobbies is the one at Balbourgh then by all means have a look round but before you buy anything pop into Balbourgh village and just across the road from the Dusty Miller is Spring Bank nurseries go armed with a list and see what you can get, your pennies will go much further there than at Dobbies!
Helen.xxx.

 

You're quite right about Dobbies (yes, Barlborough). Almost impossible to find things, the staff try but it's so big.

I know Spring Bank also, bought from there before.