Modern Low-Maintenance Garden Design with Seating

Deciduous Shade Tree (species unknown)

This is an existing mature tree retained from the BEFORE image. It provides significant canopy shade for the patio and surrounding planting beds. No specific planting or pruning instructions are provided for this established tree.

Acer palmatum

Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil, sheltered from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. Water regularly, ensuring consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Prune sparingly in late winter to early spring to maintain its graceful shape, removing only dead or crossing branches.

Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna'

Plant in full sun (6+ hours daily) with well-drained soil; tolerates some drought once established. Water deeply weekly during dry spells, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Deadhead spent blooms regularly from late spring through summer to encourage continuous reblooming.

Artemisia 'Powis Castle'

Thrives in full sun and well-drained to dry soil, demonstrating high drought tolerance once established. Water sparingly, only during extended dry periods, to prevent root rot. Prune in early spring, cutting back by about one-third, to maintain a compact, mounding shape and encourage fresh silvery growth.

Muhlenbergia capillaris

Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil; very drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply every 2-4 weeks during dry periods in its first year. Cut back old foliage to 4-6 inches in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Stipa tenuissima

Prefers full sun and very well-drained soil, thriving in dry conditions. Water infrequently once established, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to mimic its native habitat. Shear back in late winter to refresh foliage and maintain a neat appearance.

Nepeta x faassenii

Plant in full sun to light shade in well-drained soil; an extremely drought-tolerant perennial. Water once or twice a month during dry spells, or less once fully established. Sheer back after the first flush of flowers to promote continuous reblooming throughout the summer and maintain plant vigor.

Ilex crenata 'Compacta'

Plant in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil doesn't dry out completely. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain desired size and shape, as it responds well to shearing.

Ajuga reptans

Thrives in partial to full shade in moist, well-drained soil, forming a dense groundcover. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist, especially in warmer months and during establishment. No significant pruning needed, but remove spent flower stalks if desired to maintain a tidy appearance.

Sedum spurium

Plant in full sun to partial shade in very well-drained soil; highly drought-tolerant. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent rot. No regular pruning required, simply remove any dead foliage as needed for aesthetics.

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'

Plant in full sun to light shade in most soil types; tolerates moist conditions but also drought once established. Water regularly during establishment, then less frequently. Cut back foliage to 6-12 inches in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to rejuvenate the plant.