Ideas for raised island
jmr.boyes
Posts: 4
Hi, I have inherited a teardrop shaped island approx 10m x 2 to 4m and raised around 1.5m formed by dry stone walls. The island was formed when the previous owner cut into the sloping garden to create a parking space. It has become very overgrown with thistles, nettles, brambles etc and also has 3 tree stumps. It is difficult to access but very visible from the road and I'm keen to make it look less of an eyesore. I like the idea of a nature garden but it needs to be low maintenance. Would welcome ideas on a) how to clear the overgrowth and b) planting ideas. Photo attached. Thanks
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Posts
Looks like your photo didn't come through. It maybe too large in file size so try reducing it and post again.
From what you say I am assuming this area will be quite dry so you will need plants that can cope with that and due to lack of accessibility you want something very low maintenance. Maybe evergreen shrubs. I'm sure some much more experienced folk will be along with some good ideas. But you could try some Vinca minor. Do you want any height or are you looking for low ground cover?
For clearing the thistles can be pulled / dug and perhaps for the tree stumps just cut them off low to the ground, apply a stump killer (best when dormant) and plant in the spaces that exist. Or you could hit the area with a strong weedkiller (glyphosate) and replant when that has done it's job.