Suggestions please

[jomowi]

Our attractive Canal basin in Linlithgow has numerous plants in tubs, pots etc.  Either side of the tea room entrance are 2 planters about 12-15" square which need replanting.  If I can persuade the Canal Society to let me do this, I would welcome suggestions.

My first thought was a pair of Juniperus communis compressa which would act as 'sentinels' either side of the door and require minimum maintenance.  However, this situation is North facing and I see that cultivation requirements are 'sun or part shade'.  Would this be a problem?Any other ideas would be welcome.
Maureen

[Alex S.]

If it has to be a conifer, compact/column varieties of Taxus baccata should do. And regular watering is a must for any pot against a wall.

[ArnoldT]

The doorway is unadorned.

How about a climber in each pot growing up and over the frame.

[jomowi]

Thank you, Alex and Arnold.  Yes, I am conscious of the position against the wall. Fortunately there is no overhang from the roof to further make matters worse.

[bibliofloris]

I wonder if Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Fastigiata' would stay small enough in a container? I planted one instead of a yew in full shade, but I haven’t had it long enough to weigh in on growth rate or pruning.

Or, if you decide to go with vines, maybe Schizophragma hydrangeoides 'Moonlight'?

Perhaps underplanted with a nice Saxifraga stolonifera?

Hope you get to try something there!
Kelly

[jomowi]

Thank you for the further suggestions.  Also, I meant to say in my last reply Arnold, that the idea of framing the doorway with plants is a nice one, but not practical because we cannot obscure the plaque on the RHS of the door.  There is also a wooden board on the LHS when the tea room is open.  I am not familiar with the plants you suggest bibliofloris, but I will look into them. Height for the same reason may restrict the choice of these. Thanks again.