Playground friendly planting scheme

Playground friendly planting scheme

When designing a playground, safety and aesthetics are paramount considerations. An often overlooked aspect is the choice of plants surrounding the play area. Playground-friendly plants not only enhance the overall ambiance but also contribute to a safer and more stimulating environment for children.

First and foremost, consider plants that are non-toxic and hypoallergenic. Many common garden plants can be harmful if eaten, so opt for non-poisonous species. A list of plants that are hazardous if ingested, or can cause irritation if touched, can be found on the RHS website and include Euphorbia, Digitalis, Taxus, Polygonatum and Lupinus.

Low-maintenance plants are a great choice to reduce the upkeep of communal areas. Playgrounds can be high-traffic zones, so robust plants like ornamental grasses and herbs require minimal care and can withstand the occasional trampling.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to avoid plants with thorns or spines like Berberis and Pyracantha. Smooth-leaved or hairy plants, such as Stachys, Hosta, Bergenia, ferns and Helleborus, are soft to touch, providing a sensory experience, and are safe for children to be around.

To promote biodiversity and a connection with nature, consider including native plants. They attract pollinators and teach children about local ecosystems. Geranium sanguineum, Viburnum opulus and native grasses like Carex pendula are excellent choices.

Choosing colourful plants not only brightens up the outdoor space but also introduce children to the world of gardening. If the area allows, it is beneficial to include a planting bed for children to grow varieties like marigolds, sunflowers, and nasturtiums.

Hedging species can create a natural boundary or be used to soften the look of fences and railings. They also provide visual screening, some acoustic absorption and create a windbreak. Fagus sylvatica, Prunus lusitanica and Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ are all appropriate.

Lastly, don’t forget to include plants that provide shade. Trees like Betula, Acer and Prunus can create naturally cooler zones for children to play under on hot summer days.

Incorporating playground-friendly plants not only adds beauty but also fosters a safe and inviting environment for children to explore and play. These plant choices promote growth, learning, and a connection with nature while ensuring their safety in the great outdoors.

1 Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine Fontäne’ 2 Verbena bonariensis 3 Ceanothus thyrsiflorus var. repens 4 Viburnum opulus 5 Hosta fortunei var. aureomarginata 6 Polystichum setiferum 7 Spiraea japonica ‘Golden Princess’ 8 Stachys byzantina 9 Geranium sanguineum 10 Bergenia cordifolia 11 Lavandula × intermedia ‘Grosso’ 12 Persicaria bistorta ‘Superba’ 12 Astilbe ‘Fanal’ (× arendsii)

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Verbena bonariensis

A sun-loving perennial that has tall branching stems with flattened heads of lilac-purple, late summer flowers. Verbena bonariensis works well as part of a prairie-style planting theme, alongside tall ornamental grasses, and can be positioned in any part of a sunny border.

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Viburnum opulus

A vigorous shrub with maple-like leaves that provide autumn colour. Snowball-like clusters of white, or green tinted, flowers appear in late spring and are followed by red berries. A low maintenance shrub that will require very little pruning.

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Polystichum setiferum

A large, native, evergreen, tufted fern with dark green, softly arching fronds and orange-brown stalks. The fronds emerge upright in habit until they unfurl and open. Thrives in shady spots under deciduous trees.

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Stachys byzantina

A drought-tolerant ground covering perennial with soft, velvety, silver-green foliage and spikes of purple-pink flowers in summer. The leaves create a nice contrast with greener herbaceous perennials. Well suited to gravel gardens.

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Bergenia cordifolia

A vigorous, evergreen perennial with erect red stems, spikes of deep-pink flowers in spring and broad, wavy leaves, which can grow up to 30cm long and often have a purple hue in winter. A great groundcover plant that is good for edging paths due to its robust leathery foliage.

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Persicaria bistorta ‘Superba’

A clump-forming, vigorous, semi-evergreen perennial with dense spikes of soft pink flowers  summer, and veined, ovate, pointed, rich green leaves that turn red in autumn. Ideal for the front or middle of a flower border. Also works well planted as groundcover as it spreads rapidly.