Planting Ideas For Courtyards Careful plant selection can make the most of the limited space, and reduce the impact of problems such as glare and heat build up. It is important to choose species that will not have too invasive a root system, or will grow to big for the size of the garden. Do not overplant your garden. Remember that plants can grow very quickly once established, and you may find you have no space left to move in yourself. For courtyards that receive limited sunlight use shade-loving plants, such as ferns, begonias, impatiens and balsam.
Containers are a good idea as they can be moved.
Camellias, dwarf rhododendrons and azaleas make excellent tub plants for cooler sites, while palms, dracaenas and crotons, are good for warmer areas. Hanging baskets are an excellent way to make more use of available space, and will make the appearance of the garden more interesting, offering something to see at different eye levels. Espaliered plants and vines require very little ground space, and are good for small courtyards. They can be used to cover walls helping to merge them into the garden, and reducing glare and heat build up. Espaliered fruit trees can be both an attractive addition to the garden as well as providing fruit.