March is a busy time in my garden, with plenty of shrubs and fruits to plant, and a bit of tidying up. Now is a good time to cut back liriope using hand shears or a mower. This isn’t always necessary, but after the hard winter my garden experienced, pruning will give plants a fresh appearance. March is also time to fertilize Baby Gem™ Boxwood – one of the most versatile shrubs in my garden. For an elegant pairing, underplant boxwood with a mass of colorful Garden Jewels™ Gerbera Daisies or Endurascape™ Verbena, or style a corner with this cheerful trio for long-lasting color.  

I like using boxwood to define garden rooms. It plays especially well in formal designs and with its compact form, Baby Gem™ makes fabulous topiary. Boxwood also has a more playful side. Accentuate the tidy globe-shape by interplanting with Southern Living® Agapanthus for a stunning multi-layered display in the garden. Both plants are incredibly low-maintenance and make fantastic patio plantings. 

With long, sturdy stems, agapanthus is one of my favorite cut flowers for styling the home and patio. You’ll want to plant them in masses to keep those vases full.