gardening question

[lazydays]

I lost a few bushes to winter and I need to replace them. I've always wanted to transform this backyard area into more of an evergreen/japanese garden/something different than it is right now, kind of place. Here is a pic of what's there now, what died and I'd love to hear some suggestions. I'm in the northwest on the dry side of the state. Cold winters, hot summers.

[mattkime]

what zone are you in?

http://www.garden.org/zipzone/index.php

when i first started gardening, i was very particular about my plant choices. now i just try things and see what survives.

p.s. the christmas lights can come down. or you need more of them. its up to you.

[sekker]

Lots of potential there. Great backdrop from those big pines.

Big issues - kids, dogs, deck? Need access through that side? Which direction are you facing - determines light availability.

[haikuman]

Perhaps some Japanese Maple for color and some Bonsai evergreens.

http://www.google.com/search?q=Bonsai&hl=en&client=safari&rls=en&prmd=ivnsb&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=qfG0Ta3RJImAvgOW6figBw&ved=0CDoQsAQ&biw=1154&bih=732

Also a Dwarf Pear or Apple might be nice in the opposite corner from the Evergreen in the other corner *(:>*

A small water fountain that can be turned off in winter may also be interesting *(:>*

http://www.google.com/search?q=Japaneses+Water+fountain&hl=en&client=safari&rls=en&prmd=ivns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=e_K0TfvxC5H0vQP_o4COBw&ved=0CE4QsAQ&biw=1154&bih=732



A Solar water fountain *(:>*

http://www.google.com/search?q=Japaneses+Water+fountain&hl=en&client=safari&rls=en&prmd=ivns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=e_K0TfvxC5H0vQP_o4COBw&ved=0CE4QsAQ&biw=1154&bih=732

[freeradical]

An apple tree? Veggies? Blueberries?

[Black]

I see lots of possibilities.
One thing that's a little tough now is that you went for symmetry with the shrubs and now 2/3 are gone. I'd think about moving the survivor to the middle and going with Japanese Maples in the two "holes". Or just a bit in front of them (a Japanese Maple should not be used as a border plant against a fence.)
Bloodgood is a common variety with a nice form and fast-growing.
http://www.google.com/search?q=bloodgood+japanese+maple

If you can train yours into a nice "umbrella" shape:

it will give you lots of pleasure at that end of the yard by the time you're about 70.

[steve...]

Something else to consider: Low Maintenance! I would stay away from plants that need lots of work to keep looking good. A good nursery can tell you which plants do well in your area. I try to use native plants in my yard when I can. Japanese Maples are beautiful trees -- I'd plant about three of different varieties. Maybe two on one side and one on the other -- not symmetrical. And keep some variety in the size of the plants when mature. You could also take pictures of yards that you really like and ask the nursery for help in identifying the plants. — My 2¢

[WHiiP]

Clean and paint the fence.

Look around locally and take pictures of what you like as mentioned above.

Japanese Maples are very nice.

Clean up the entire bed and use fresh mulch.

put some flowers in the front of the bed for seasonal color. Maybe some herbs for cooking.

[blooz]

Clearly you need one of these:

[OWC Jamie]

The Christmas tree is planted much too close to the fence. It must have been quite small when planted.
Not a big problem if you plan on replacing it occasionally , otherwise it will take a bit of pruning to stay away from the fence.

A landscaping book specific to your area is a good place to start. Especially noting species that will do well there.