When people talk about improving curb appeal, they often think of new siding, updated lighting, or a fresh coat of paint. But one of the most transformative upgrades—often overlooked—is foundation planting. The bushes and shrubs installed around the foundation of your home play a massive role in how welcoming, balanced, and attractive your property looks.
Professional bush and shrub installation does more than fill empty space. It softens harsh architectural lines, frames your home beautifully, adds color and texture, and creates a warm, inviting first impression. Whether your landscaping feels outdated or bare, the right foundation planting design can completely refresh your exterior.
In this blog, we’ll break down why foundation planting is so important, which shrubs thrive in Michigan, how to design a balanced layout, and why professional installation ensures long-term health and beauty.
Foundation planting refers to the bushes, shrubs, and small trees installed around the base of a home—especially near the front entrance. These plants help visually anchor your house and create a smoother transition between the structure and the surrounding landscape.
Homes without foundation plants often look:
Bushes and shrubs soften these lines and make the home look more welcoming.
Shrubs and bushes bring your home to life with:
Your landscape appears fuller, richer, and more intentional.
Foundation planting dramatically improves first impressions. Whether you’re:
…shrubs and bushes add structure and beauty that people notice immediately.
Landscape design strategically draws the eye toward key elements, such as:
Correctly placed shrubs help guide attention and enhance the home’s overall look.
Foundation planting ties the house to the landscape, creating harmony between built and natural elements.
Driftwood Landscape installs shrubs that are hardy, attractive, and suited for Oakland County’s climate.
A classic choice for structured, elegant planting beds.
✔ Evergreen
✔ Clean, formal appearance
✔ Easily shaped
Perfect for adding color and fullness.
✔ Large blooms
✔ Seasonal interest
✔ Beautiful near entryways
Sturdy, shade-tolerant evergreens.
✔ Year-round greenery
✔ Low maintenance
✔ Great for foundation corners
A favorite for its bright flowers and compact shape.
✔ Vibrant spring and summer color
✔ Easy to maintain
✔ Great mid-height option
Ideal for height and privacy near home edges.
✔ Evergreen
✔ Columnar growth
✔ Works well as a vertical accent
A Michigan staple known for its dramatic white blooms.
Offers strong color contrast in reds, purples, or yellows.
A stunning shrub with deep foliage and peeling bark for winter interest.
Great near sunny foundation beds to attract pollinators.
A well-designed planting layout follows key design principles.
Typical foundation design includes:
This creates a soft, natural flow.
Tall shrubs directly under windows can make your home look short and crowded.
Repeating shrubs creates rhythm and harmony.
Example:
Boxwood → Hydrangea → Boxwood → Hydrangea
They ensure your home looks good even in winter.
Flowers and foliage add vibrancy and personality.
Foundation planting is essential for:
These areas benefit greatly from height, texture, and greenery.
Correct planting determines long-term success. Driftwood Landscape ensures:
DIY planting often leads to overcrowding, poor root development, or plants that outgrow the space.
You may need new shrubs if:
Foundation planting is one of the easiest ways to modernize your property.
Driftwood Landscape installs beautiful, long-lasting shrubs and bushes that enhance curb appeal and transform your home.
