We have been working back in that area lately, If you walk thru there is a small grassy yard with only a few lilacs against one wall. Ric has always wanted to turn it into a small formal garden. To the right is the Veggie Garden. We are putting up a small GH in the Veggie Garden area with a Arbor and walk down to the GH. Since we have been working in that area we have picked up a few new plants. Last year we added very small variegated boxwoods as a low hedge between the Secret Garden area and the Veggie Garden area. They are still so small that you don't even see them in most pic;s They come out on either side of the new Arbor. I have also moved a euonymous against the house wall under the window and have two Climbing Hydrangeas to go in next to it. Ric will have to build me a good size trellis for them. I also came home with three Rose bushes not sure where he will plant them. But it will give the area a start. I can see this turning into a nice garden area.
New Arbor was build out of reclaimed wood. Very old from an old garage that had previously been an old carriage house.
After a trip to the LaDew Topiary Gardens last year Ric decided that he wanted to dress up the hedge a little and has recently tried adding a scalloped garland to the top of the hedge. It will take awhile to grow in and take form. But I thought it looked pretty good so far. He will have to see how much work it takes to maintain the look and if he feels it is worth the extra work. It can best be seen on the back and side of the hedge where you get the longest lines look best.