Secrets to Curb Appeal

Mailbox Makeover

Cure ugly mailbox syndrome.

Oddly enough, it is the humble mailbox that often creates that first impression of a suburban home. It can extend guests a welcoming visual invitation or give them the cold shoulder. Even the mail carrier was tempted to drive by the nondescript mailbox at left without stopping. It was time for a makeover.

To spruce up a plain mailbox, begin by clearing out any surrounding weeds. Ornamental grass makes a nice backdrop, and we like the maiden grass (Miscanthus sinensis 'Gracillimus') in particular.

Some type of small evergreen, stepping down in height, stands out in front of the grasses and gives the planting an accent during the winter. For added punch, place evergreens in terra-cotta pots.

Next, consider adding a copper post cap, brass house numbers, copper tubing, and decorative elements like this copper vase and firefly. Copper tubing is sold in prepackaged coils, so we merely had to unwrap it, stretch it out, and wind it around the post.