Sidewalk Placement for Two-Row Foundation Planting

Positioning a new sidewalk to accommodate two-row foundation planting (boxwood + hosta) requires adequate width and thoughtful layout.

Minimum Offset

3 feet from foundation provides enough space for:

• Row 1: Hostas (shade-loving, 1-2 feet wide)
• Row 2: Boxwood (part-shade tolerant, 2-3 feet wide)
• Mulch/edging buffer

Boxwood reference

Plant Compatibility Notes

• Boxwood: Part-shade to full sun
• Hostas: Require shade—avoid hot, dry, sunny exposures
• East/north exposures ideal; south/west risky for hostas

Design Upgrade: Avoid Straight Runs

• Curve the sidewalk gently
• Vary distance from foundation
• Create planting pockets for visual interest
• Much more engaging than parallel lines

Resources

• Hosta varieties: AboutHostas
• Boxwood guide: Backyard Landscape Ideas

A curved walk with generous planting space transforms a utilitarian path into a landscape feature.