AboutKathy Expertise I am able to answer exterior layout and design questions. I have a special talent for creating landscapes for children as well as entertaining. Going beyond the usual landscape design I can also suggest furniture and decor (lit candles, hanging pottery, etc) that will compliment any exterior design.
Color themes, geographical themes (japanese, tuscany, etc) and seasonal designs are also within my realm of expertise. A horticulturalist I am not, but, I can answer just about any question that might require a particular type of plant and whether it will work for you.
Experience Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science for SUNY-Environmental Science and Forestry in association with Syracuse University where I took 2 years of Landscape Architecture. During that time I worked for 2 separate landscaping businesses - not design, but, maintaining plant materials. I have nearly 10 years of design and graphic layout in the web design field. I worked for a corporate web design/services company. I am currently a consultant for residential landscape design here in Virginia Beach.
Organizations Norfolk Botanical Gardens
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science for SUNY-Environmental Science and Forestry in association with Syracuse University where I took 2 years of Landscape Architecture. Secondary education teacher certification. I taught high school earth science for 6 years.
Past/Present Clients All of my clients are local and residential.
Question The bushes around my outside air conditioning units are not doing well. I would like to replace them with flower plants. Do you know the purpose of planting bushes around the units? Do they help to retain soil under the foundation (AC units sit on cement foundation), provide shade for the AC units (to reduce energy usage) or just for the look only? will it be ok to replace them with annual and perennial flower plants? Any suggestions of what flower plants to use? I live in central Florida. Thanks
Answer Happy New Year, Julie!
For the most part, people/builders plant bushes near an AC unit to hide it - particularly if it is near the front of the house or near an entertaining area.
Before I can answer your question I will need to know exactly where your AC unit is located and about how tall and wide it is.
