Discussing the Plantings on the Property

Clip Summary

Bob, alongside architect Kristian Fenderson and Tom Strangfeld (from Weston Nurseries), walks the property, focusing on the planting selected for this home. Bob, Kristian, and Tom begin at the rock garden, situated on a 2-foot grade transition from the street and the driveway.

The plant material chosen for the garden provides seasonal interest and, when it grows up, will offer a buffer to the street. Species include Scintillation Rhododendron, Hinoki Cypress, Dwarf Blue Arizona Fir, Stewartia (an Asian tree with bark like a Sycamore and Camellia-like flowers in July and August), Blue Star Juniper (a disease and pest resistant variety that grows 2-3 feet across but no more than 6 inches tall), Asiatic Paper Bark Maple, Viburnum Bowden Intensely (which blooms in February with fragrant pink flowers), a hemlock on the corner, and some ornamental grasses.

Careful plant selection for pest and disease resistance can significantly minimize the amount of maintenance required. Latticework from Brattle Works will camouflage the A/C compressors on the side of the house.

In the Boston area, planting can take place right up until mid-November. Kristian left room for a lawn off the back deck, then planted Norway maple and Hydrangea Quercifolia (Oak-leafed Hydrangea with huge white blossoms) for privacy in front of the rear latticework fence.