Plants define how we live in our outdoor spaces. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these leafy companions can define our gardens, provide privacy, and even contribute to our health.
For inspiration, look no further than the following image of Princess Grace Kelly's Paris Garden in the 80s. Clearly, the plants were chosen for privacy, reflecting Grace's status as one of the most famous women in the world at the time. However, this imperative does not have to mean that the planting appears stiff; the design is absolutely stunning.
Homes & Gardens' in-house master gardener and Gardens Content writer, Thom Rutter, explains: 'Privacy planting is an important consideration when planning any backyard. As we can see from the image here, a loose, natural, freer approach to hedging can really help to mask and screen the perimeter of a garden, but also create an attractive green canopy to frame the rest of a space.'
Princess Grace Kelly at her home in Paris in June 1981
Shop the Privacy Planting Edit
These Felco pruning shears have hardened blades for effortless trimming in your yard, making light work of tough rose pruning jobs. They're essential in every kind of garden. Furthermore, our in-house master gardener, Thom Rutter believes that they are some of the best pruners on the market. Ideal for pruning your ivy.
These beautiful roses are moderately fragrant and will bloom continuously throughout the growing season. I love their gorgeous pinkish red color.
This timeless evergreen stays vibrant all year round and grows quickly. It's the perfect plant for a novice gardener, and makes an excellent privacy screen when planted together.
Though it looks complicated, replicating Grace Kelly's garden idea is easier than it might seem. With a bit of planning, research, and a touch of personal taste, you can create an equally stunning outdoor space in no time. Luckily, Master Gardener Thom is here to explain how.
Thom advises: 'I have used many different plants for this sort of planting in my years as a professional gardener. To achieve this look, I would suggest growing a mixture of evergreen privacy plants and flowering and deciduous species, so there are moments of interest and seasonal change, but also the evergreen covering can be relied on to provide privacy.'
He continues: 'So, opt for things like yew, alongside beech and hawthorn, you can also use firethorn or the beech rose, Rosa rugosa, which will creep and crawl through the greenery and inject pops of pink at the edge of your plot.'
With the right know-how, a garden fit for a princess is not far off. By looking to beautiful inspiration from across time and listening to the experts, you have all the tools you need to create something truly spectacular.
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