Hello! I'm looking for some ideas around how to decorate the area on top of the top retaining wall in my front yard (see pic from last Spring). I live in New England with super harsh winters - everything I've tried to plant here just doesn't seem to survive. Last year I planted three hearty evergreen shrubs and they are just barely hanging on at this point. This area gets shade from about 12pm on. I also have to admit that getting out to water this area daily is hard due to my work and family schedule.

I'm wondering if there are non-plant ideas I could try in this space? If anyone has thoughts please let me know! Thank you!