What can I put around my arbor/bench+pergola?

Hi, I'm a new gardener and have decided to transform my front garden. It's south facing and I think it would be lovely to have a seating area to enjoy the weather. The space is small and I want to make the most of it. If I place a bench+pergola or arbor in my garden nook, what can I plant around it? Should I let the grass continue under the bench or can I continue my plant bed underneath it? At the moment the border is a sleeping vegetable bed. I welcome alternative ideas.

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Re: What can I put around my arbor/bench+pergola?

Reply from Nicola

Hi Tamara, welcome to Shoot. Do you want an introduction to a garden designer in your area? We have a lot of garden designer members. Please look here

Also here are some articles which might give you some inspiration. South facing garden planting and Courtyard gardens

Or you can try to search as well e.g. plants for full sun Cheers Nicola

Re: What can I put around my arbor/bench+pergola?

Reply from Arabella Tate

If you place a bench+pergola or arbor in your garden nook, then you can plant some grass under the bench.

Re: What can I put around my arbor/bench+pergola?

Reply from Becca Duncan

Hi Tamara,
You could make the most of that vertical space and plant a beautiful climbing rose if it is a sunny south facing garden? Depending on your choice of colour, the Generous Gardener, Teasing Georgia and climbing Iceberg are 3 gorgeous fragrant and repeat flowering varieties.
Becca