Forum Archive

I am planning to break through the concrete in front of my south-facing brownstone to create a front garden. I have some hydrangeas (and maybe a holly bush) that want to live there. But before we start breaking things up, are there any helpful suggestions from those who have already done the project?

Specifically, what did you use for a border (we’re thinking pressure treated 2x8s with about 2″ above the concrete), did you put in a french drain or gravel bed (we’re thinking just gravel), and did you use the soil that is already there, or replace with new topsoil?

Thanks all.