Latest from Homes & Gardens in Design-landscaping

The ‘See-Through’ Planting Trend Designers Are Obsessed With Right Now And How To Achieve It

Jacky Parker — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0000

It's official; the neatly clipped lawns, rigid planting structures and formal flower beds of the past are firmly passé. For multiple reasons, gardening trends have given way to looser, wilder, less static schemes.

These types of naturalistic planting are more about working with nature, rather than fighting it. Not only do they have a more relaxed aesthetic, they're generally better for the ecology of your garden (and surrounding areas).

One of these styles is "see-through" planting, and it's a design philosophy to jump on board with, if you're looking for fresh and beautiful backyard ideas. Discover why landscape designers love this mindful, airy aesthetic and how to create it yourself.

What Is 'See-Through' Planting?

(Image credit: Hortulus Animae)

Often featuring ornamental grasses, tall leafless stems and umbellifiers, "see-through" planting has a loose, airy style that's far freer than traditional garden schemes. Award-winning, landscape gardener, Jean-Marc Flack, founder, Hortulus Animae is a strong proponent of this design philosophy and it frequently underpins his projects; he explains more.

'The rise of "see-through" or airy planting is a direct pushback against the static, heavy, "object-based" landscaping of the past," says Jean-Marc. 'For decades, traditional high-end gardens prioritized control, using dense hedges and rigid blocks of color to create impenetrable walls.

'But a mindful landscape shouldn't block your view; it should invite you to look through it. A successful "see-through" garden relies on a solid, grounded matrix at the base, which then allows for taller, expressive, "rambunctious" seasonal display layers to weave through the sightlines.'

Why Is 'See-Through' Planting On The Rise?

(Image credit: Alamy / Alexandra Glen)

Like any design movement, garden trends evolve and change for multiple reasons. Aside from the differing visual tastes of new generations of gardeners, and less formality in general, there's a growing awareness that nature needs our support and gardening more holistically and ecologically, with native plants that attract butterflies and other pollinators at the forefront, can provide that.

'Loose, gentle airy planting evokes a different feeling than a typically structured and planted garden,' says Jordan Clough, associate principle designer, Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture in Washington, DC.

'While ornamental grasses have long been part of the planting designer’s toolkit, we are seeing an emphasis on this aesthetic, which I think reflects a few convergent trends.

'Over the past 15-20 years there has been increasing interest in using native plantings in our gardens, many of which are meadow and grassland species. Aesthetically, there has also been a trend away from showy flowers that tend to have a shorter bloom time or only look good for a few weeks of the year.'

Jordan finds that he now designs more with foliage and texture in mind. 'By creating contrast and drama with wispy, airy species paired against more traditional groupings of shrubs, the visual effect is striking and long-lasting,' he says.

For Jean-Marc "see-through" planting aligns with his practice ethos for encouraging biodiversity, and he loves that it creates negative space. 'It's about about layering and movement,' he says. '"See-through planting" allows the eye to travel, capturing the interplay between fine and coarse textures, and catching the light.

'It ensures the garden is never a static composition, but a time-based medium that moves with the wind. It's about elemental permanence and restraint. You are setting a framework in motion and allowing the architecture of the plant itself, its stems, its umbels, its seed heads, to act as a translucent scrim rather than a solid barrier.'

5 Plants to Get The Look

1. Tufted Hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa)

(Image credit: Alamy / Steffen Hauser)

Tall, swaying ornamental grasses play a prominent part in this style, providing structure, movement, and that all-important airy feel. A particular favorite for Jean-Marc is Tufted Hairgrass, an attractive cool-season species with pale, feathery panicles.

'Tufted Hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa) is essential for building the "matrix" of your garden,' says Jean-Marc. 'This native grass provides a soft, wispy base layer. In the summer, it produces clouds of tiny, airy seed heads that act like a shimmering, translucent veil.'

This plant is highly adaptable, thriving in partial shade to full sun, and prefers moist, well-drained soils. These Tufted hairgrass seeds from Walmart can be sown outside after the last frost and are suitable across zones 2-8.

2. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

(Image credit: Chris Lawrence / Alamy Stock Photo)

Another popular native grass in "see-through" planting schemes is Switchgrass. Loved for its ecological benefits as well as its height, movement and beauty, Panicum virgatum (and other native grasses) provide nesting materials and seeds for birds, so would suit wildlife gardens too.

'North America is blessed with many attractive native grass species,' says Jordan.'Some of these have proven very suitable for selective breeding in the nursery industry to enhance their colors and other attractive traits.

'The Panicum genus, specifically, has stunning cultivars such as ‘Heavy Metal’ and ‘Shenandoah’, and the many cultivars of Little Bluestem.'

Panicum virgatum is an ornamental warm-season grass that grows well in full sun and is drought-tolerant once established.

This Panicum Northwind switchgrass from Burpee is a prairie native with blue-green leaves and airy seedheads that will provide color, texture and interest to your yard, as well as shelter and food for birds.

3. Drumstick Allium (Allium sphaerocephalon)

(Image credit: Alamy / Joe)

Intrinsic within "see-through" planting schemes are umbellifiers with their flat, lacy flower-heads, plants with globe-like umbels and those with long, leafless stems. Jean-Marc loves to weave Pale Purple Coneflower (Echinacea pallida) and Nodding Onion (Allium cernuum) into his beautiful landscape projects, however one of his best-loved species is the Drumstick allium.

'This is one of my personal favorites for creating a "see-through" moment,' says Jean-Marc. 'Drumstick alliums feature tall, thin, leafless stems topped with tight, burgundy-purple oval flower heads. Because the stems are so slender, they appear to be floating mid-air, allowing you to see completely through to the plants behind them.'

Drumstick Alliums are the last of the family to bloom and are great plants for pollinators. Reaching one to three feet tall, they require full sun and well-drained soil. Try these drumstick alliums from Burpee to capture the "see-through" style.

With its slender stems, purple coneflower looks gorgeous alongside alliums in naturalistic schemes, so experiment with these echinacea seeds from True Leaf Market. Alternatively, opt for edible umbellifiers, with these Mammoth Long Island dill seeds from True Leaf Market for warm-season edimentals.

4. Culver's Root (Veronicastrum virginicum)

(Image credit: Alamy / Tony Mills)

With layering and movement at the heart of this "see-through" naturalistic planting trend, tall, slender stems with flower spikes rather than blousy blooms take precedence. An upright perennial that Jean-Marc likes to work with – and recommends if you're starting out – is Culver's root.

'Culver's root is a magnificent, structural native plant,' says Jean-Marc. 'It produces elegant, slender vertical spires of tiny white or pale purple flowers. Because it grows strictly upright rather than outward, it draws the eye up to the sky without bulking up the mid-ground and blocking the view.'

Culver's root thrives in requires full sun and rich, moist soils. Expect it to flower from summer to fall. This Culver's root from Nature Hill's can reach 5-7' tall for a dramatic display that butterflies will adore.

5. White gaura (Gaura lindheimeri)

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Jacky Parker)

Whilst ornamental grasses, tall leafless stems and umbellifiers are wonderful for the vertical layering, swaying and informality in a naturalistic scheme, this interest can come from other plants at differing heights too. Jordan likes to include flowering perennials in subtle tones.

'There are a few flowering perennials that will also achieve this "see-through" look,' says Jordan. 'Some personal favorites of mine include Gaura lindheimeri and Threadleaf Amsonia, Other species I like to use include Verbena bonairensis and Bouteloua gracilis.'

These white Gaura seeds from Walmart need cold stratification, but can be started indoors several weeks before the last frost. Alternatively, sprinkle them now or in the fall and wait for next season's blooms. Sow them where there is full sun and give them dry soil conditions once established.

If you'd like to embrace this design philosophy, existing plants can simply be replaced, as they expire, with looser, less blousy species. Think layering with tall native grasses, feathery panicles, lacy umbels and flower spikes or tiny blooms that sway or nod in the wind (and provide sustenance for birds, butterflies, bees and other beneficials), for a landscape that looks and feels more alive.

'These airy plantings have more movement than typical garden species, which are usually treated as static objects,' says Jordan. 'This means that every light breeze brings your garden to life with flickering shadows, dancing seed heads or waving flowers.'

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The Expert Landscaping Tricks That Keep Fast-Growing Gardens Balanced, Beautiful, and Low-Maintenance

Francesca Clarke — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In the summer garden there's a fine line between colorful and abundant and overgrown and blousy. After long days of sunshine and plenty of summer showers, if your backyard is growing too fast you're not alone. Both sun and rain can quickly send your garden plants into overdrive, leaving your roses flopping, perennials overtaking pathways and border specimens competing for space. It can soon feel that everything you've worked so hard for in spring has taken on a life of its own and your backyard is looking past its best.

Fear not, however, as all is not lost. There's still plenty of time to remedy that frustrating fast-growing garden situation. And our speedy, low-effort fixes will have your backyard back to its glowing, colorful, elevated best in next to no time. We've asked the experts to share their professional tips and tricks so you can benefit from their years of expertise.

The key techniques here align with low-maintenance backyard ideas that are at once impressive and full of color. After all, high summer is a time for enjoying your outdoor space, not spending hours toiling in the sun to keep it looking good.

Cut Back Wisely

(Image credit: Sviatlana Zyhmantovich/Alamy Stock Photo)

Cutting back, pruning and maintaining a tidy garden in midsummer is about subtlety and holding back. It's not the time for hard pruning – rather regaining control in the garden without losing that gorgeous feeling of abundance.

Take it too far and your plants will suffer, as pruning inevitably causes moisture loss to the plant, which can have serious consequences if the weather's really dry.

George Whalley, founder and director of Esme Developments in Berkshire, UK, agrees: 'Naturally, people think reaching straight for the hedge trimmer and cutting everything back is going to solve the problem of an overcrowded garden.

'But in most cases, that's not necessary and can actually spoil the natural shape of plants just as they're entering their best season. If a feature shrub, ornamental tree or designer pot has become hidden by surrounding overgrowth, for example, carefully revealing it again can make the entire garden feel more intentional again.'

You can create airflow in borders by selective cutting back of anything that is creating too much 'visual noise': rambling roses, early-flowering perennials such as catmint (Nepeta), hardy geraniums, mint, hyssop (Agastache), for example.

And it's good to know when to prune shrubs such as late-spring/early summer flowering ones that have finished blooming – mock orange (Philadelphus), weigela and deutzia for example are good to prune now (though these shrubs can take more of an all-over prune, removing first and dead, damaged or diseased branches then cutting back to keep them within their allotted boundaries).

Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal advises a similar approach: 'Instead of cutting everything back dramatically, I would selectively remove a few of the tallest or oldest stems on any plants that are getting too big for their space. This helps to open up the plant, improve the airflow, and will help to keep a natural shape. It also makes the garden look more organized.'

A good sharp pair of secateurs like these from Fiskars bypass pruners from Ace Hardware, and Ace carbon steel loppers from Ace Hardware are your friends here for quick and easy pruning.

Remove Spent Flower Spikes

(Image credit: Future / Future Publishing Ltd)

Another key area to focus on in your summer garden edit are the spent flower spikes of those late-spring/early summer uprights – here we're talking foxgloves, lupins, delphiniums and so on.

First know which plants never to deadhead, but when a plant like a foxglove has done its thing and won't bloom again this season, then it can be snipped back to the ground.

Again, George advises restraint: 'I recommend editing planting. You can start by removing spent flower spikes and any stems that are flopping over pathways or into neighbouring plants. This immediately begins to make the garden feel more tidy without losing the beautiful new growth.'

In this category I'm including oriental poppies too, as the foliage simply frizzles up and turns brown once the flowers have bloomed, so you can shear everything off right back to the ground once they've flowered. Look, too, at the spent flower spires of euphorbias.

Once zingy and a beautiful acid green, they're brown and uninspiring by early to midsummer, and likely taking up space needed by other neighboring perennials. Snip these spent stems back to ground level and you'll immediately notice the difference.

Carry Out Some Gentle Deadheading

(Image credit: Tim Gainey / Alamy Stock Photo)

This is perhaps the simplest and definitely one of the most immediately satisfying jobs in the garden, and it will transform the space. But what is deadheading and why is it important?

Deadheading of individual blooms is something you should do first and foremost with repeat-flowering roses, cosmos, sweet peas, phlox, peonies and salvias (with salvias, snip back individual stems once they're around 70 per cent over).

Not only will it redirect a plant's energy into producing more flowers, but it will instantly neaten up your garden with very little effort on your part.

The general rule here, and that includes when learning how to deadhead roses, is to cut the flowering stem back to where it reaches the main plant. Use your fingers to pinch off the spent flowers – or a pair of snippers like these by Fiskars from Home Depot are a neat little tool for tougher customers, or anything in hard to reach places.

For roses with sharp thorns, invest in a pair of long gauntlet gloves from Amazon to save your hands and arms from scratches.

Reclaim Your Edges

(Image credit: Annaick Guitteny)

'Redefining your bed edges is one of the fastest ways to make an overgrown garden look its best. A clean lawn edge will provide structure and make everything look lush and tidy,' says Gene.

Use a half-moon edging tool (and a line of twine tied between two pieces of bamboo cane if your beds have straight edges and you want a pro-level finish) to create a crisp line around flower beds and borders, to cut out grass that's straying over stepping stones through a lawn and to redefine the edges of pathways.

A quick word on wildflower lawns here. It's one of the best wildflower garden ideas around, boosting biodiversity and giving your garden a romantic elegance that's hard to beat.

If you've been doing 'no-mow May' or have a wildflower lawn that's starting to look bedraggled and past its best, instead of cutting it all down and being left with a brown, ragged-looking lawn, why not a path through it to create definition and intent? Sometimes a change is as good as a rest.

Try this steel landscaping edger from Home Depot.

Midsummer is a busy time in the garden, so it's easy just to leave things be, with the result a flopping and undefined backyard that's a bit sad to look at and not great for your plants either.

Do tackle your overgrown plants, but remember that at this time of year, the key is to edit rather than hack or go in with too much vigor. Your garden (and the wildlife within your outdoor space) will thank you for it.

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Designers Are Ditching All-White Gardens – These Gentler Color Palettes Are Replacing Them for Summer 2026

Jacky Parker — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 07:30:00 +0000

Once seen as the height of elegance, garden schemes filled with all-white blooms are falling from favor with designers. This tranquil style, whilst beautiful, is giving way to more interesting, softer, palettes.

The reasons vary, but major factors point to the pull towards wilder, less pristine or overly contrived schemes, along with native planting and the awareness that our gardens play a vital role in the local ecology.

It follows that a desire for more naturalistic planting leads to more diverse color combinations and textures in our backyard ideas. Yet this still requires thought and careful editing – and minimalist schemes are still popular too. Discover the palettes replacing all-white gardens, according to landscape designers

1. Native Heritage Palettes

(Image credit: Alon Koppel Photography / Design: Hortulus Animae)

A return to the native plants that existed in a landscape prior to urbanization and industrial agriculture naturally conjours a more colorful and heritage feel. This palette varies from region to region – and color is not the key focus for landscape gardener, Jean-Marc Flack, founder, Hortulus Animae.

'I have moved away from considering color as a primary design criterion,' explains Jean-Marc. 'Human-centered design considerations should always bow to or allow for wildlife and environmental priorities.

'The traditional all-white garden is often born from a desire for total control. It requires strict curation and maintenance to keep it looking pristine and "tidy," which inadvertently feeds into what I call "nature amnesia"—the expectation that a garden should be a sterile, highly curated room rather than a living ecology.

'Designers – and clients – are moving away from this because we are expanding our definition of beauty. What is replacing the all-white garden is a shift toward dynamic, heritage palettes that embrace the entire life cycle of a plant and the history of the land itself.'

Jean-Marc describes a recent naturalistic garden installation he worked on in the Hudson Valley, designed to honor the heritage agricultural and medicinal practices of the indigenous Muh-he-con-ne-ok people.

'Rather than an imported palette, the colors in this garden are deeply rooted in the local vernacular based on local plants native to the area and reflecting the cultural and medicinal values of the indigenous Muh-he-con-ne-ok peoples,' says Jean-Marc.

'It's made up of soft prairie greens, striking wetland reds, and the dusky purples and golds of native meadows. It is a "wilder" look, but one that is highly composed, culturally significant, and ecologically vital.'

In other projects Jean-Marc describes leaning into the subtle interplay of muted silvers, dusty purples, earthy greens, and sudden, exuberant flashes of intense native color. 'Instead of washing everything out in white, we are utilizing deep, grounded earth tones that feel native to the specific geology and history of the site,' he says.

For flashes of native color, give this Blue Stocking Bee Balm from Nature Hill's a go. Native to large swathes of the US, this one is a cultivar with violet flowers and a sweet aroma. Expect it to grow to 2-3' tall and 1-2' wid and attract pollinators.

Purple coneflower, like this variety from Nature Hill's is another popular plant in heritage schemes, as it's native to parts of central and eastern US.

2. Green Drenching

(Image credit: Getty Images / Elena Leonova)

In our over-stimulated world, unsurprisingly, the desire for minimalist gardens hasn't gone away all together. However, those who are not fans of showy blooms or riotous color are opting for 'green drenching'.

These are gardens with an emphasis on foliage over flowers. This is a palette that New York-based landscape designer, Kat Aul Cervoni, founder, Staghorn Living says is popular with her clients.

'I think these days, people feel like all-white gardens are a bit too one-note, precise and maybe overly prim,' says Kat. 'I've noticed three overarching color palettes that are desired by clients.

'The first is mostly-green or all-green gardens, where flowers are scarce and there’s a much bigger emphasis on texture, form, movement and shades of green. These gardens are heavy on ornamental grasses, groundcovers, unique and or variegated foliage plants and evergreens. This look tends to be favored by folks who prefer a more minimalist, understated look.'

This Feather Falls Carex ornamental grass from Burpee has a cascade of variegated foliage that manages to be interesting and understated.

Another charming addition would be this Stonehenge skinny Yew from Nature Hill's which is ultra narrow at a foot wide and grows to 6-8' tall.

3. Romantic, Weathered Colors

(Image credit: Toddlerstock/Alamy Stock Photo)

The move away from all-white gardens doesn't mean a scheme can't still be visually calm, even with color. Florals with soft, faded or weathered tones offer gentle combinations of color that soothe rather than stimulate.

'We’re in a constant state of sensory overload, especially visually since we’re always staring at screens,' says Kat. 'A more restful color palette and immersive plant scheme helps calm the nervous system and gently bring us into the present.

In contemporary gardens where there's a mix of perennials, shrubs and ornamental grasses, Kat says she's leaning into color palettes that feel slightly weathered or romantic rather than overly saturated.

'Colors like mauve, soft peach, deep burgundy or even bronze foliage, pale lavender, or creamy flowering perennials mixed with grasses tend to create a softer, more dimensional feeling,' says Kat. 'These combinations feel understated, settled, nuanced and calm.'

Try this lavender hued Russian Sage from Lowe's for weathered tones. In shadier spots, this Wild Geranium from Nature Hill's would bring the romance with its soft pink color. It's a pretty groundcover plant and cold hardy in zones 3-8.

Jean-Marc likes to include wild geraniums in schemes where they suit the landscape. 'They're found in rich, shady forested habitats and create a beautiful, dappled woodland aesthetic,' he says. 'They can also bring quiet elegance to the understory or to the front of a shady border, with their delicate, light purplish-pink flowers.'

4. Layers Of Soft, Dusky Tones With Deeper Accents

(Image credit: Bailey-Cooper Photography / Alamy Stock Photo)

Although beautiful, a singular color used on repeat can appear contrived. The move towards wilder, looser garden ideas lends itself to a more diverse array of plantings and colors. However, there are no sickly pinks or showy reds here. The tones are soft and dusky interspersed with deeper accents.

'Naturalistic and cottage garden schemes tend to be more floriferous and colorful by their nature,' says Kat. 'While there’s the potential for tons of colorways, they are still edited and intentional.

'From a color palette perspective within these types of garden, I’m seeing a lot more interest in dusky purples, smoky pinks, apricots, soft blues, and deeper wine and near-black tones layered together in a more naturalistic way.

'People still want cohesion, but they’re becoming more comfortable with subtle complexity and moodier combinations - which is fun.'

For pale apricot tones in a cottage garden, plant this pretty Apricot Drift rose from Lowe's, which is hardy across zones 5-10. For a flourish of dusky pink in a naturalistic setting, try this ornamental fountain grass from Lowe's, which flowers from mid to late summer.

With the exception of the 'green-drenched' gardens, there is much crossover with the palettes described. What each has in common is a mix of mostly, soft, soothing hues, offset with deeper tones or vibrant accents. With plants often chosen, not just for their color, but their ecological benefits and history too.

'We’re surrounded by so much newly-made stuff - plastic, faux materials, everything too clean and perfect. We’re yearning for places that feel like they’ve been around for a while, have a story and a soul, with nuance and character,' says Kat. 'We’re pining for uniqueness and authenticity.'

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Petals & Roots: How to Make A Sweet Pea Wigwam – For A Natural, Beautiful Frame to Support Your Favorite Flowers

rachel.bull@futurenet.com (Rachel Bull) — Sun, 31 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

To grow sweet peas in your yard with any kind of success, these rampant, floriferous vines need to have a large frame or trellis to trail up, hook onto and bloom from. And creating your own needn't cost anything.

If there is one think I love doing in my garden, it's making supports and trellis from the natural materials I already have. I like to build a wigwam-style frame for my sweet peas, as it creates that quintessential, abundant cottage garden look in my cutting patch when they begin to flower.

In the most recent episode of Petals & Roots, I show you how to build a rustic, DIY sweet pea wigwam out of hazel branches cut from my own garden. It's a simple, easy way to give your garden a little homespun charm, and the effect is magical.

What You Need

(Image credit: Future/Esme Mai Photography)

Good quality pruning shears, such as the Fiskars Bypass shears from Amazon, which come with a lifetime warranty
Eight or more hazel canes, but you could use bamboo stakes, available from Walmart
Natural jute twine, from Target
Gardening scissors
Sweet pea seedlings or plug plants
A plant dibber
A watering can; this is my top rustic pick from Target

How To Make a Sweet Pea Wigwam

(Image credit: Future/Esme Mai Photography)

The first step is to cut the branches to create the wigwam frame. I love using hazel for plant supports because it's strong yet flexible, and I also have an abundance of it in my backyard.

If you don't have any branches or recent prunings you can use, willow or bamboo canes would work just as well, and you can usually find these at local garden centers.

When cutting your own, look for fairly robust branches that are at least half an inch thick. They should also be a fairly long length, at least 60 inches, as your sweet peas need a lot of height to reach their full potential.

I also love to choose branches with lots of interest and detail at the ends of them. Don't snip off these tiny shoots and thinner branches. Not only do they look charming in your wigwam, they will help to hold your frame in place.

(Image credit: Future/Esme Mai Photography)

Once you have your canes, lay them out and take four that are more or less the same length.

Place them deeply into the soil at the points of the compass and bend them towards each other to start creating the wigwam shape.

Tie some natural twine around the top of these four canes to secure them in place, roughly 10-15 inches from the tips.

(Image credit: Future/Esme Mai Photography)

Now it's time to make the frame more robust. Take four more canes, and place these firmly into the soil in between the four original branches.

You can keep adding to fill in the gaps, depending on how big you want to make your wigwam.

To give the frame and your sweet peas even more room to grow, the next step is to build in some horizontal support using your twine.

(Image credit: Future/Esme Mai Photography)

Decide where along the length of your frame you want to add some horizontal support, then tie your twine around one of the canes, just to secure it.

Take your roll of twine around the frame, wrapping it around each individual cane as you continue to move around it. Natural canes will often have small knots or other branches you can use to help anchor your twine in place. Repeat this two or three times, until you have a strong, tight line around the branches.

Then add another one further up the frame. You can add as many as you'd like. In my experience, it's helpful to have more towards the bottom of the frame, when plants are a little weaker and might need extra support as they get going.

(Image credit: Future/Esme Mai Photography)

Once your frame is complete, you can plant your sweet pea seedlings at the base. I have learnt from experience not to overcrowd them.

It is tempting, when plants are small, to pack them around each cane, but limiting it to two or three plants will give each one enough room to grow and flourish.

Once they get going, sweet peas are surprisingly robust and without the right amount of space to thrive the vines won't be able to produce as many beautiful flowers.

When vines get to six or seven inches tall, tie them onto the canes to encourage them to continue growing upwards, and in no time your frame will be covered in the most fragrant, romantic summer blooms.

What to Shop

Essential Tool

Fiskars Carbon Steel Bypass Pruners

Timeless Color

Mammoth Blend Sweet Pea Seeds

Eco Friendly

Natural Jute Twine

Petals & Roots is a weekly video series fronted by me, Rachel Bull, Head of Gardens at Homes & Gardens. Every weekend on social, I share my seasonal gardening and flower arranging expertise and advice.

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Color Drenching Isn’t Just for Interiors – It’s the Outdoor Trend Transforming Yards This Summer

Jill Morgan — Thu, 28 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

What better way to celebrate life outside, this season, than with bold color. Immersing yourself in a vibrant sea of blooms and foliage is a fabulous and instant mood booster, plus it's also the perfect excuse to get creative and take your passion for decorating outdoors.

But before you start filling up your yard with an eclectic array of floral hues, it's worth knowing that this year there's a different way to enjoy color outside. The color drenching trend that has recently won over interior and floral designers, is now influencing the latest and most style-led gardens. Full of impact, interest and undeniably chic, it is also surprisingly simple, and fun, to do.

We spoke to leading plant and garden design experts to explore this latest garden trend and uncover the surprisingly simple secrets to getting the look in your own yard.

What Do We Mean by Color Drenching Outdoors?

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs)

‘Color drenching is defined by the repetition and saturation of bright, unified color throughout the landscape,’ says plant expert Corrina Stellitano Andrews.

‘Instead of scattering various colors throughout a bed, this technique leans heavily into a single color family and builds intensity through layering and color echoes.

'Colorfast foliage and deeply hued blooms are doing more of the heavy lifting than ever before. Trend-savvy gardeners are mixing tones under the umbrella of one focal color to deliver impact without visual clutter.’

Tailoring outdoor furnishings and furniture to echo your planting is a great way to maximize the effect and we can't wait to give it a try.

Amplify Border Planting With Boundary Choices

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Martin Wahlborg)

Bring drama and impact to your yard by ensuring your boundaries and border planting work in harmony. Just one of many fence line landscaping ideas, take note of the color or finish of the walls or fences and replicate these tones in your planting for maximalist effect.

If you are lucky enough to have an exterior wall clad in silvered cedar shingles or weathered slate, then use these cool tones to inspire a silver and steely blue planting palette.

Think gray-blue spiny eryngiums, globe thistles, blue fescue grass teamed with long-flowering nepeta.

Have a garden that's enclosed with rich hued timber, and 'create a golden drench in which warm tones dominate the landscape,' suggests Corrina.

'In this style, 'Sunshine' Ligustrum and ‘Lemon-Lime’ Nandina work together to create a layered foundation that feels bright and cohesive. When paired with accents like orange-toned annuals or bold foliage plants such as ‘Orange Rocket’ Barberry, the result is a saturated, sunlit effect that feels modern and energetic.'

You can find all these live plants at Southern Living Plants Collection.

Use Hard Landscaping As Color Inspo

(Image credit: Getty Images/ prill)

Hard landscaping materials play a key role in most contemporary gardens. Statement paths, paving, border edging or material selection for raised beds all come with their individual characteristics which shine out when mirrored in the planting.

Here the rich rusted tones of Corten steel edging continue effortlessly through the borders with the feathery panicles of Pennisetum 'Rubrum', dark and velvety foliage of Coleus giant palisandra and glossy leaved Lobelia 'Compliment Scarlet'. Just some of the best burgundy flowers and plants.

You can find Corten Steel Edging at Lowe's.

Pot Up Color Coordinated Containers

(Image credit: Marina Kositsyna / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

An easy way to experiment with color drenching outside is to use color co-ordinated pots and planters. Moveable and short-term, if needed, this method gives you the option to play with a single chosen color without committing to labor-heavy, in-ground planting.

'Plant pots full of the same summer-flowering bulbs for a floral explosion,' says plant expert Peggy Anne Montgomery. 'As each variety comes into bloom, move them to a prominent location to add some wow factor to any front door, outdoor décor, or party space. Now, combine the different-sized containers using a color palette of the same hues.'

For instance, as Peggy Anne suggests, 'Imagine a variety of purples from deep purple calla lilies to the softer lavender tones of gladiolus, with every shade in between represented by dahlias and ranunculus. When the flowers are past their peak, the pots can be moved to a less noticeable area of the garden.'

Wayfair have a vast selection of outdoor planters.

Simplify Sequential Planting With Near-Black Blooms

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Clive Nichols )

Realistically, you can pick any tone or hue when color drenching your yard, but for instant impact, consider a dark, rich shade.

Near-black tones are a fail-safe choice for color drenching outside. With plenty of exciting plant options to choose from, you can gradually build up a layered display that lasts year round.

'Beautiful black flowers are always showstoppers – here’s a goth garden seasonal sequence to try,' says bulb and perennial expert Megan Foster.

Spring: (plant the fall before) start with a very early spring blooming hellebore like Dark & Handsome, followed by black tulips such as Queen of the Night Single Late Tulip and Black Parrot interplanted with the towering Persian lily.

Late Spring: (plant late summer/fall before) collect some of the most incredibly velvety black colored flowers anywhere – the Bearded Iris or Iris germanica. Bernice's Legacy Bearded Iris at Nature Hills is the perfect example. We also love Raven Girl, Señor Jinx and All Night Long for jaw droppingly rich saturated drama. Pair with dark Allium atropurpureum.

Summer: There are lots of long-lived perennials with cultivars featuring dark colored leaves that will really give a sense of color drenching when used abundantly. For a strong foliage specimen in sun, try one of the newer Euphorbias like Sahara Blackbird, and team with plum colored sedums like Night Embers. Build up middle and underplanting layers with dark Heucheras like Black Forest Cake or moody Japanese Painted Ferns. These Dubai Nights Calla Lilies from Amazon are another fantastic pick.

Late Summer: (plant in spring) Worth the wait – black foliage Dahlias are pretty magical and their contrasting hot colored blooms in late summer are very satisfying. These burgundy dahlias from Amazon are on the wish list. We love the taller wispier varieties like Bishop of Llandaff but for smaller spaces or pots Dark Angel Dracula and Dark Angel Pretty Woman are very useful.

For more color led garden ideas discover how to add color to your yard without planting any flowers and the flower bed trends for 2026.

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We Love the ‘Intentional Sparse’ Garden Trend – 6 Reasons Why Planting Less Can Look More Expensive

sarahwilsonjournalist@gmail.com (Sarah Wilson) — Sun, 24 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

The sparse garden trend has become something of a conversation point lately. This restrained way of planting where everything has an intentional place offers calm, clean lines and allows individual varieties to shine on their own rather than as part of a busy planting scheme. The idea is that planting should look effortless and natural, and the good news is once established it's one of the most easy-care garden designs you can choose.

This simple, uncluttered style of gardening relies on a limited color palette, a minimal number of different landscaping materials and a capsule collection of plant varieties to achieve the pared-down look that is ideal. Think one sculptural tree, a shapely shrub that complements it and a smaller plant or plants – ideally aim for no more than five – that completes the arrangement.

Perhaps it's a reaction to other 'busier' trends like meadowscaping and soft modernism featuring swathes of planting that dominate everything else but either way the sparse garden trend is one of the backyard ideas that feels like it's here to stay, especially as it's a more sustainable (and affordable) way of gardening. We took a look at some of the latest designs to find six ideas that fit perfectly with the sparse garden trend.

1. Knock Back On Plants So The Landscaping Can Shine Too

Let some space into the design so the planting takes on more sculptural properties (Image credit: Sarah Cuttle/RHS)

The sparse garden trend shifts the balance away from masses of dense planting seen in many naturalistic planting designs towards a mix of shapely rocks and swirls of gravel landscaping with plants dotted in between.

This cleverly moves the focus onto each plant and allows them to shine individually, while at the same time letting the landscaping details feature more prominently too.

This award-winning project by Carey Garden Design uses a blend of natural materials such as salvaged stones and sustainable concrete with a clever 'hidden' water feature to create an eye-catching backdrop that enhances the planting.

The key to getting this trend right is to leave plenty of space between plants for a more minimalistic look that lets air into the design and allows the natural landscaping forms to share the spotlight with the plants.

2. Keep Containers Simple With One Eye-Catching Plant Variety

A wooden bench near these containers offers the opportunity to sit and enjoy this luxe design (Image credit: Neil Hepworth/RHS)

Often the temptation with container gardening ideas is to cram in as many plants as possible. An interesting alternative is to use just one variety of plant and allow them space to breathe by layering gravel or pebbles on the surface in between to 'landscape' the design. This minimalist approach offers a stripped back aesthetic that feels intentional and quietly luxurious.

This simple container idea by designer Angus Thompson features moss plants, which feel soothing and restful, especially as they're so lovely to touch. Choosing a shallow style of container like these offers the opportunity to include more plants in the design too.

With a distinctly calming feel, Angus's inspiration for this design is the concept of yohaku no bi – the Japanese aesthetic of the beauty of empty space. Positioned next to a wooden bench these containers invite you to pause and take in the planting.

Shop Beautiful Containers

Resin Bowl Planter

This planter is a contemporary and versatile design with a weather-resistant matte finish, and comes in several sizes to choose from.

Smooth Bowl Planter

An understated planter bowl for both indoor and outdoor plantings, this sleek design is hand-crafted from durable concrete.

Concrete Bowl Planter

Expertly handcrafted by skilled artisans, these planters are individually poured using traditional methods to ensure a unique finish.

3. Curate Planting Choices To Create A Harmonious Design

Less is more if you want to focus on the beauty of individual plants and trees like this sculptural Japanese maple (Image credit: Roberto Westbrook/Getty Images)

The idea of paring down your plant collection is key to getting the sparse garden trend right. See it as a type of outdoor decluttering that helps you focus purely on the good stuff.

The general rule to aim for is choosing no more than three to five different varieties of plant. Creating a capsule garden in this way gets back to basics and lets you cut down on the amount of plants you have crammed into your yard if you're looking to streamline your approach, especially if you find you have lots of high-maintenance ones to look after.

Once you focus on the plants that truly deserve a place in your garden design it's much easier to think about how to show them off to their best advantage. This planting design (above) is elegant and minimalist with clean lines and a restrained palette of cool greens with just a hint of cream.

It helps to create a space that feels uncluttered and luxurious, and allows you to enjoy individual plant varieties that can be clearly seen and appreciated.

4. Use Sustainable Mulch So Sparse Planting Looks 'Finished'

Less planting can mean more soil on show so top it with shredded mulch for a more luxe 'designed' look (Image credit: Yardzen)

Once planting is thinned out into a more minimal design this usually means a lot more soil is on show. The best sparse garden trend ideas find creative ways to landscape around key plants to show them off in the best possible way.

Sustainable landscaping ideas are the go-to, using materials like gravel, river rocks and other natural stones, as well as decorative organic options like cork or bark mulch.

These materials enhance the appearance of your landscape as well as offering benefits to plants. Adding mulch is beneficial to the health of plants by cutting down on weeds that compete for nutrients, helping the soil retain moisture to keep plants hydrated, and offering a layer of protection when it's cold. You can find organic Back to the Roots mulch at Amazon.

A combination of less plants with good mulching ideas results in a look that is both beautiful and natural. This works really well with airy plants like Verbena bonariensis and shapely Japanese maple trees like in this design (above) but also looks good with evergreen shrubs and trees, helping to create a more 'designed' landscape.

5. Make Ornamental Grasses Your Go-To

Feathery ornamental grasses demand space to shine (Image credit: Emer1940/Getty Images)

One of the plant varieties that will particularly benefit from the sparse garden trend are ornamental grasses. They need plenty of space to reach their full potential as well as show off their beautiful shape.

Seen in isolation without being surrounded by other plants they become all the more dramatic, especially when combined with rocks to create interest with contrasting textures.

An invaluable landscaping plant that provides structure, form, and movement, place ornamental grasses strategically so they have room to grow, especially taller varieties like majestic Miscanthus sinensis, available from Burpee, and graceful feather reed grass 'Karl Foerster'.

They will create stunning punctuation points in your planting, especially in minimal garden designs where they will become the focal point.

6. Choose Less Plants But More Of The Right Kind

Choose a planting theme that encapsulates the pared-down look (Image credit: Neil Hepworth/RHS)

One of the easiest ways to get a cohesive planting look is to choose a theme. But many of the popular ones such as cottage garden ideas, prairie planting and the rewilding garden trend are packed with plants so these ideas don't work for the sparse garden trend. But one idea that definitely does is Japanese zen gardens.

These minimalist and meditative spaces are designed to evoke a sense of peace and serenity, and their success depends on letting the plants have room to breathe.

Gentle layers of moss, shapely Bonsai pines and leafy leopard plants feature in this design by Kazuyuki Ishihara (above).

Depth and atmosphere are created through meticulous attention to space rather than excess planting. Every plant must justify its position to merit inclusion, while landscaping rocks and raked gravel add further layers of interest.

The overall effect is considered and intentional, contributing to a restrained beauty that reflects the simplicity of Japanese aesthetics, and a perfect example of how the sparse garden trend can work in your outdoor space.

You can also plant Japanese maple trees to get this kind of look, and Fast Growing Trees has a wonderful collection.

Now read about the warm minimalism garden trend that is also big this year. This offers another way to create a calm and uncluttered look that uses earthy, sun-bleached colors and natural finishes for a warm and inviting feel.

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5 Simple Steps to Creating a Japanese-Inspired Garden Path – for a Mindful, Serene Backyard

drew.swainston@futurenet.com (Drew Swainston) — Sun, 24 May 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Japanese-inspired gardens are popular with homeowners who seek calm and sanctity in their outdoor spaces. Pivotal to any space is a path, which can be quite different from the usual ones you see in Western gardens.

A Japanese path provides both a physical and contemplative journey. They curve to create mystery and are punctuated by features of interest. Stepping stones complicate the route and slow you down, the planting embeds the hard landscaping in nature, and there are lanterns, water features, and stunning plants and trees to discover.

I have been fortunate enough to see Japanese gardens, shrines, and temples across the islands of Hokkaido and Honshu. I’ve been in awe of the feelings they evoke and the journey of discovery they offer. You can replicate this at home by embracing some of the core features of traditional Japanese garden ideas. Here are five important Japanese path ideas to consider to create one of your own.

1. Think of the Journey

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

Pathways in Japanese gardens guide how you move through the space and the pace at which you stroll. To create a mindful journey, they are designed to slow you down so you can take in the elements, connect with the space, and cultivate a feeling of calm.

‘Japanese gardens are designed around meandering paths,’ explains Joseph Richardson of Washington, DC-based Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture. ‘Traditional Japanese garden pathways are rarely straight. They encourage a slower, more reflective journey through the landscape.’

Curving pathways allow for discovery and obscure what lies ahead. The paths themselves often slow down the journey by adding stepping stones spaced thoughtfully apart, or by narrowing the path in places.

It ensures that you embark on a journey and are given opportunities to slow down and appreciate the nature around you. Often, they end at a focal point, such as a water feature, bench, or tree.

The curving path means you can’t see what’s around the next corner, and it creates mystery as it opens up to reveal a pagoda, pond, maple tree, or beautiful view – Japanese gardens are great at borrowed landscaping and framing a good view.

2. Use a Mix of Natural Materials

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

A Japanese garden path can be made of a combination of many materials, such as stepping stones, gravel, paving stones, and rocks.

There is an opportunity to be creative with a mixture of size, shape, and finish of different materials of your choosing to create that mindful adventure through the garden.

Angelene Padilla from Bloomfield Farms in Tennessee admits it is ‘not really about the materials’ but ‘how they are used together’ that can evoke a true Japanese feel at home.

Mixing up materials is a playful way to create a more complicated path, which slows down the pace and requires thoughtful guidance.

‘Smaller stones can be raked into soft, soothing patterns around larger stones, creating the meditative effect that people expect to find in Japanese gardens,’ she adds. ‘Moss nestled between stepping stones is perfect for an aged look and softness, and bark mulch is great in shadier areas and provides a woodland atmosphere.

‘The important point is to remain natural and not too symmetrical or fancy.’

There are two types of paths seen as defining features of a Japanese garden, both of which can be created with different types and sizes of stones.

A tobi-ishi pathway is made of stepping stones of various sizes and spacings, to encourage a slow, mindful pace. A nobedan path is a wider, more formal path made from materials ranging from large slabs to small cobbles or gravel.

3. Carefully Plan and Place the Stones

(Image credit: Getty Images/YDL)

When attempting to create a Japanese path, picking the right stones and getting the distance between them correct are important factors. Lay out the stones in advance to decide on patterns and check the numbers and distances – and to have an opportunity to try walking the path – before starting to lay them.

Traditionally, stones are placed 3-4 inches apart and sit 1-2 inches above the soil level. The spacing between stones requires deliberate pacing, and gently curving them creates the mystery.

Placing them too far apart creates a more hurried feeling and increases the risk of slipping when wet. And using different sizes creates added interest and affects the pace of the journey, as you need to think about your steps.

Stones are often arranged in two, three, five, or seven. The numbers four and nine are very unlucky in Japanese culture. The word for four sounds identical to death, while nine sounds like suffering, and some buildings don’t have fourth or ninth floors. So, don’t lay stones in groups of four or nine when creating a Japanese path.

At intervals, stepping stones can be punctuated with a larger one to allow time for pause and reflection.

Stones of different shapes and colors in a nobedan path design can be laid in a mosaic to encourage a speedier pace. They can be laid out in a more formal design. Start with the end and edge stones (you can get a range of natural stones at Lowe's in varying shapes and colors) to create the outline, before filling the central part of the path. And don’t apply mortar until it is dry laid.

4. Add Moss or Gravel

(Image credit: Getty Images/Grant Faint)

Fill the spaces between stepping stones or the edges of slabs with moss or gravel. Both of these are classic features of Japanese gardens.

Gravel is often seen raked into patterns in Zen gardens. It is used to symbolize water and its raking as a form of meditation. Using gravel (often grey gravel for a natural look, like this grey gravel at Amazon) to fill spaces between stepping stones fills bare ground, stops weeds, improves drainage, and offers an attractive contrast to the stones.

Moss is a core part of Japanese path ideas. Often overlooked (and unwanted) by gardeners, yet Japanese gardeners have embraced moss for centuries for its natural beauty and simplicity.

‘Moss is especially effective in creating a sense of age and patina within the garden,’ says Joseph Richardson. ‘It thrives in damp conditions over time, though some gardeners encourage growth by applying buttermilk to stones or wood surfaces.’

‘When sourcing boulders or rocks from garden centers, you can sometimes find pieces with moss already established,’ he adds.

Adding moss between stepping stones helps make it appear they have been there for many years. The moss provides a soft, textural backdrop, helping blur the line between the natural environment and man-made hard landscaping. It also encourages people to stick to the path so as not to damage the precious moss.

If you can’t use moss, use ground-cover plants such as grasses, creeping thyme, or Irish moss (which is a plant in the carnation family).

5. Mark the Journey With Plants or Features

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

The addition of plants or traditional features reinforces the calm feeling of a Japanese garden and acts as a perfect complement to any Japanese path ideas.

As mentioned earlier, it is about adventure and discovery when journeying along a garden path. Traditionally, this can be done with bridges, ponds, and gateways. On a miniature scale, in a backyard small Japanese garden, a water feature, a lantern, or even a cloud-pruned shrub can work as a focal point.

When it comes to plants, Joseph Richardson describes Japanese maples as an ‘obvious and iconic’ plant for a Japanese garden. He adds: ‘We also look for a variety of dwarf or miniature-scale grasses and ground covers that help reinforce the intimate, tranquil feeling.’

For example, low-growing Japanese forest grass (you can get an all-gold Japanese forest grass plant at Nature Hills), black mondo grass, hakone grass, or creeping thyme (get creeping thyme seeds at Burpee) will provide a natural contrast to help mellow the edges of the stones.

‘Adding a bit of color, like flowering plants such as azaleas or cherry trees, can create a bit more drama, but don't distract from the overall calm,’ adds Angelene Padilla. ‘This style works very well with small gardens.’

What to Shop

Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple

'Inaba Shidare' stuns with deep purple foliage in spring, turning bright red come the fall. It is a compact Japanese maple that can be grown in a large container.

Stacked Stone Water Feature

This Japanese-inspired fountain is designed to imitate stacked stones and has a traditional pergola top. It measures just 27.56'' H X 21'' W X 13.2'' D.

Zen Garden Solar Lantern

This statue can be placed as a feature along any Japanese garden path. It has solar-powered lights that turn on to illuminate your zen garden at night.

If you have a penchant for Japanese gardening, there is a fantastic selection of tools you can use at home. Personally, I have used Japanese pruning shears, weeding sickles, bonsai scissors, and a hori-hori knife in the past and can vouch for their quality craftsmanship.

If you want to add some practical, durable gardening tools to your collection, our guide to the best Japanese gardening tools features some of the best.

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How Landscape Designers Create a Garden That Looks Full by June – Starting Right Now

rebeccalawtonpr@gmail.com (Rebecca Lawton) — Fri, 22 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

May can feel like that strange in-between stage when the garden is undeniably alive, but still not quite there. The grass has greened, the borders are pushing through, yet everything still feels a little open – as if the planting is waiting for its second act to arrive.

Thankfully you don't need a complete garden re-design (or a free month to devote to it). According to garden designers, it's entirely possible to build a garden that looks full by June, if you put things in place now, in May. A garden that already has its bones just needs filling out, not rebuilding. A few well-judged changes now can completely shift the feel of a garden in a few short weeks.

That's reassuring news if you love your garden but rarely have a free weekend to spend on it. The trick, designers say, is to work with what's already there. Editing and tidying established planting, before spending your time focusing on a few backyard ideas that deliver the biggest visible pay-off. Here, two garden designers and a plant expert share exactly what to do in May, to build a garden that looks full by June.

Start By Editing What You Already Have

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Konoplytska)

Before buying anything new, designers agree the most powerful work often costs nothing at all. An established summer garden that looks sparse in May is rarely empty, it's usually just lacking definition. Borders have flopped, edges have blurred into the lawn, and self-seeded clutter is muddying the picture. Clearing it away is the fastest visible improvement you can make to your space.

Caroline Ervin, landscape designer recommends starting with the structure that's already there. 'Hand pruning shrubs to a pretty and natural shape will help make an older garden look refreshed and cared for,' she says. 'Be careful not to prune everything into round “meatballs” but rather a natural looser shape.'

Other quicks wins that cost nothing but time include sharpening the boundary between lawn and border, and removing weeds or unwanted growth. 'A smooth bed line that delineates the lawn or grass area from the planting beds makes a garden look tidy and tended,' Caroline adds.

And if you only have minutes rather than hours to spare, sustainable landscape designer Brooke Addison suggests focusing on surface-level refreshes for instant impact. 'Raking your mulch refreshes the look and makes it appear brand new,' she says. 'It's a fast, free way to make a visible difference in your garden.'

Where to buy bed-edging and pruning tools:

An adjustable Half-Moon Edger Lawn Tool from Amazon makes light work of crisping a bed edge, while these sharp Felco F2 Pruning Shears are worth the upgrade for hand-pruning shrubs.

Finish with a Heavy Duty Garden Rake also from Amazon, for the quick mulch-refresh trick.

Use Annuals And Fast-Growing Plants To Fill Visible Gaps

(Image credit: Liudmila Chernetska / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

Once the garden is looking tidy and defined, it's worth focusing your efforts on filling the empty border spaces - those gaps where plants haven't quite filled out, or the area feel light.

The fastest way to fill one of those gaps is to think big first, then soften. 'One of the quickest ways to make a garden feel established is anchoring a bed with one or two large, colorful shrubs and layering smaller plants around their base,' suggests Siobhan Shaw, sustainable gardening expert and co-founder of Growing to Give.

'The larger shrub creates instant structure and maturity, while the surrounding flowers like a border carnation fill up space.'

A bold, flowering shrub acts like an exclamation mark in the garden, and hydrangeas, roses, bottlebrush or a colourful Chinese fringe flower can all wake up a sparse spot quickly.

The planting around its feet is what sells its effect. Siobhan favors fast-growing flowers that help to blur the empty soil lines. 'Herbs like thyme and oregano, along with petunias, alyssum, or sweet potato vine, create that layered ‘garden has always looked this way’ effect.'

Sustainable landscape designer Brooke Addison describes annuals as 'illusion plants' because of how quickly they can transform how a space feels at this time of year. She recommends leaning on those that get bushier the more you use them. 'Cut-and-come-again flowers, such as Dahlias, Zinnias, and Cosmos, will branch and become fuller the more you harvest blooms from them, giving the illusion of a more established garden.'

Think In Layers, Not Single Plants

(Image credit: Vaivirga via Getty Images)

A statement shrub is a strong start, but on its own it will struggle to make a garden look established. What reads as a mature garden rarely comes down to a singular plant - it's repetition, varied heights and grouped planting all working together. The shrub provides the anchor, while the layers around it bring the fullness.

Caroline builds borders to feel layered from the front: low plants at the front edge, mid-height through the middle, and a few taller pieces at the back, with the same combinations echoed at intervals along the length of the bed.

That repetition is part of what makes a garden feel settled so quickly. 'Your eye tracks patterns throughout your space and recognizes repeating species,' explains Brooke. 'This repetition also gives the illusion of a mature garden, where the plants have had time to set seeds and create new plants in the same space.'

In other words, what looks established to us is really plants that have time to spread and seed themselves around. Repeating them now can mimic that effect in a single afternoon's planting.

Siobhan points out that layering plants will only work if there's a strong starting point. 'When you underplant a bold shrub with herbs, trailing annuals, or low-mounding flowers like dianthus, the whole bed instantly feels softer, fuller and more established.'

That principle carries through into container designs too, where grouping and layering can quickly create the impression of maturity.

Group Containers To Create Instant Focal Points

(Image credit: Getty/Nadtochiy)

When time is limited, garden containers are the most effective tools for changing how a garden feels in a single weekend.

Rather than dotting individual pots around a space, Caroline recommends creating intentional clusters that act like mini garden scenes. 'Consider using all that are similar colors but in varied heights and shapes to create a display. For example, use all terra cotta, and some small, medium, large pots. Then vary the plants in the containers for more interest.'

Caroline's general principle in containers is that groups of smaller planters look fuller than one large plant, but there is one exception, she notes. 'Popping a big Boston Fern or Kimberly Queen Fern in a container creates an instant impact, and they are fairly inexpensive in a really large size.'

If there's one number worth taking into the garden center this weekend, it's Caroline's formula for how many plants a pot needs to look genuinely full. 'Measure the diameter of the planter, divide by 2 and add 1 for the number of plants to include,' she advises. 'Use at least 4” size plants to start and plant close together so the planter is full.'

If it takes two months for tiny market packs to grow to a lush size, it will be late summer before the planters look full.

To make a grouping look as though it has always been there, another trick Caroline recommends is to add character. 'Add antique or vintage planters to the grouping. I also like to add a vintage garden ornament, a pretty old finial or a weathered animal.'

What To Shop

Esschert Design Aged Terracotta Round Pots

A set of three terracotta pots delivers the foundation of Caroline's grouped pot approach in a single purchase - ideal as an accent cluster on a balcony, doorstep, or alongside a large anchor planter.

Dakota Fields Whitted Artichoke Garden Statue

A weathered-effect ornament, like this whitted artichoke statue from Wayfair, is one of Caroline's favorite features.

Costa Farms Kimberly Queen Fern

A large Kimberley Queen Fern, like this Costa Farms one from Lowes, is Caroline's 'instant theatre' exception to the small plants rule. It delivers immediate volume and structure at a fraction of the cost of a mature shrub, ready to drop into a porch or patio container.

Spend Your Weekend Where It Will Show

(Image credit: Future / Dan Duchars)

If a single weekend is all you have, you'll want to spend it wisely, and it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Simply hand-pruning shrubs to a natural shape, edging and weeding, followed by one high-impact flourish will make a noticeable difference.

Caroline recommends placing two freshly planted containers at the front door for instant curb appeal. 'Buy a little bit larger plants and plant closely together so the visual impact is immediate,' she says.

As Brooke sums it up: 'Our gardens should be a place of joy, not something to approach them with a sense of dread. Remember what you love about your garden and focus on that if you have limited time.'

Avoid The Quick Fixes That Don't Pay Off

(Image credit: Getty Images/ZoiaKostina )

While it's tempting to prioritise instant results, designers warn that some quick fixes can create more work in the long run.

One of the most common mistakes is buying very small plug plants and expecting them to fill out quickly.

For a June pay-off, experts recommend buying plants a size or two up and planting them close together so the bed or planter looks abundant from day one. A handful of well-chosen, established plants will outperform a tray of tiny ones every time.

Container care is also crucial. 'Fresh soil, consistent watering and deadheading are essential if you want them to stay full and flowering through summer,' says Caroline.

For those with limited time, the goal isn't perfection; it's a garden that feels alive and inviting in time for summer. Edited, layered and styled with intent over a single month, it won't just look fuller by June, it will feel far more settled and inviting within a matter of weeks.

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The 10-Minute Garden: Design Rules That Keep Maintenance To A Bare Minimum

Francesca Clarke — Tue, 12 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

May is a busy month outdoors, with a garden workload that can appear overwhelming. But believe it or not, a low-maintenance yet gorgeous backyard is achievable. A few tweaks here and there – with the design of your space, the plants you grow, and how you tend to them – can result in an outside space that takes just 10 minutes a week to keep looking fresh, healthy, and colorful.

I'm not talking about large estates here, or gardens with acres of high-maintenance lawn. Let's be realistic. But if you're the proud owner of a small backyard, a generous urban patio, or similar, I've put together a set of golden rules that you can follow to transform that space into a brilliant low-maintenance affair that will bring joy with the minimum of input from you.

In terms of low-maintenance backyard ideas, these pointers for a 10-minute garden are up there with the best. I'm not giving you anything complicated or costly here. Just practical, tried-and-tested steps that will give you more time without compromising on gorgeous flowers, lush foliage, and the joy of sharing your space with all kinds of garden wildlife. Here's how to go about it…

Design Out Your Time-Sponge Zones

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

Take a long, hard look at your outdoor space and think about where most of your time is spent. Chances are it's in one or two of a handful of areas. Change these, and you change how you interact with your backyard and how much time you'll need to spend looking after it.

The most time-consuming element of a garden is likely a lawn. Think of the essential lawn care tasks, that time you spend mowing, edging, fertilizing, raking, and scarifying, all in the name of the perfect green space.

If you're after low maintenance, a lawn is the first thing you should get rid of. Landscape with gravel or gravel inlaid with occasional pavers instead. You'll still be able to lie back and enjoy the sun. Do it well, and you'll create an infinitely more sustainable and environmentally diverse backyard space.

Next up: herbaceous flower borders. There's no denying that deep borders filled to the brim with flowering perennials are a joy when they come into flower. However, caring for flowering perennials is high effort, what with all the deadheading, dividing, mulching, feeding, pruning, and watering involved.

I'm not saying you shouldn't grow any herbaceous perennials (plants that grow, flower, then die back to ground level over winter, before repeating that life cycle again in spring).

But the key is to choose wisely and replace at least half of them with less labor-intensive shrubs and ornamental grasses.

Shop white gravel bags at Ace Hardware.

Shop shrubs at Perfect Plants Nursery.

Choose Container Plants That Care For Themselves

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

Annual bedding plants are the ones that pump out colour from (usually) late spring to fall, then die, never to return.

They're great if you're after bags of color in pots, but the truth is, they're high maintenance. Annual plants need plenty of TLC in terms of deadheading, watering, and feeding, and you have to buy more, plant them, and do it all again every year – or several times a year if you're going for pots of seasonal color in winter too.

Still keen on containers? Then there are heaps of perennials that will serve the same color-boosting purpose.

In hot spots, try succulents like aeoniums and sempervivums in free-draining compost mixed with horticultural grit. Lavenders, sedums, Mexican fleabane, and long-flowering hardy geraniums such as 'Rozanne' will give you plenty of bang for your buck, too.

In shade, hostas and ferns are a gorgeous, lush option; use them to underplant a Japanese maple in a larger container. I also love easygoing heuchera varieties and bergenia (elephant ear) in pots in dappled shade.

Browse lavender varieties at Burpee.

Buy ferns at Burpee.

Shop Japanese maples at Perfect Plants Nursery.

Buy Geranium 'Rozanne' at Burpee.

Turn To Easy-Care Evergreen Shrubs For Year-Round Color

(Image credit: Paul Dyer Photography)

If you've decided to get rid of time-consuming herbaceous perennials, you'll need something to fill those gaps. Which is where shrubs step in. Forget any dated ideas of shrubs being boring. There's such an array to choose from that you could never get bored, and they're so undemanding.

For color 12 months of the year, pop in a few of the best evergreen shrubs. Pittosporum, box, and yew are classics that can be shaped if you like.

Or choose flowering shrubs that are also evergreen – think abelia, lavender, rosemary, daphnes, and ceanothus in sun; choisyas, camellias, azaleas in semi shade, and dramatic fatsias, scented winter flowering sarcococca, and mahonias in shadier spots. Some of these won't ever need pruning, others just a quick trim once a year.

Buy evergreen shrubs at Trees & Plants.

Shop flowering shrubs at Perfect Plants Nursery.

Let Your Plants Do The Work

(Image credit: Getty Images/Alex Manders )

Instead of seeing your plants as yet another thing to take care of, flip the script and look instead at what they can do for you.

Self-seeding plants are your friends, as they will soon fill any gaps without your help, and naturally create the cohesive look you get when plants repeat themselves within a space (more on this below), forming natural-looking colonies.

My favorites are a pack of love-in-a-mist seeds, like these from True Leaf Market, strewn in a sunny corner in spring; forget-me-nots, annual poppies, giant mullein, and foxgloves. Self-seeders work especially well in gravel gardens, by the way.

Patches of bare soil will soon be overtaken by weeds, so use some of the best ground cover plants here to block them out. Hardworking, reliable options include lungwort (Pulmonaria), Cyclamen hederifolium, epimediums, and Brunnera macrophylla for light shade, while I use creeping thyme, lady's mantle, Mexican fleabane, and hardy geraniums in sunnier areas. Once established, they're all undemanding plants that can be left to their own devices.

Perhaps one of the best planting tips for a low-maintenance space is to repeat plants within your space. It's a trick all of the best garden designers use, as not only does it reduce maintenance time, but it also creates a cohesive, unified look in your backyard.

Look for plants that perform well in your space, or your neighbor's yard, and plant more of them. Then, if you do need to cut them back, for example, they're easy to tackle in one quick burst of activity. It's really that simple.

Hand Over Responsibility For Watering And Feeding

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

If you've gone down the route of growing perennials in containers, I find a drip irrigation system like this one from Amazon is a brilliant time-saver. Connect it to a timer on an outdoor tap, and you're done for the summer.

Another tip for pots is to add slow-release fertilizer when you plant up. It'll last a year at least, gradually adding the nutrients your plants need without you having to lift a finger.

In the gravel garden, meanwhile, that gravel mulch around your plants will lock in moisture and keep out the majority of weeds, so once they're established (do water during their first year, to get those roots delving deep into the soil), they're unlikely to need much irrigation, if any.

10 Minutes A Week In Your Low-Maintenance Yard

(Image credit: Future)

Let's imagine you're all set with your 10-minute garden.

You've replaced the time-drain lawn with an easy-care gravel area, ditched annual bedding plants in favour of shrubs and perennials in pots, identified the best plants for your particular backyard and used them on repeat, and set up an automated watering system.

Here's what your weekly gardening schedule in spring could look like…

4 mins: weed out any unwanted self-seeders (replanting in gaps that might need filling)
2 mins: feed any perennial pots planted more than a year ago, using a liquid feed
2 mins: cut back deciduous grass such as stipa to 4in (10cm) from the ground (early spring)
2 mins: cut back any dead growth from your gravel garden or any remaining border plants

In summer…
5 mins: water anything newly planted in the gravel garden
3 mins: prune back lavender after flowering to keep it neat
2 mins: check containers and adjust irrigation settings if the weather's hot and sunny

And in fall…
10 mins: mulch containers and any remaining borders with leaf mould, garden compost, or composted bark

I hope you've seen that creating a low-maintenance garden needn't be an arduous task, giving results that will leave you richer in time and the proud owner of an outdoor space that looks great all year round.

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These Fence Colors Make Any Yard Look More Expensive – and the Upgrade Is Easier Than You Think

Martha Davies — Sat, 09 May 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Whether you're planning to put your home on the market or you want to give it a refresh, one thing is guaranteed to make an impression: your fence. Though they are often overlooked, carefully-chosen fence colors can make your home look more expensive – and it's best to go for soft neutrals or earthy shades.

According to experts, these calming, natural hues are the secret to elevating your home and boosting its curb appeal. It might sound far-fetched, but you really can use fence colors to add value to your property, especially if you pick something that complements the rest of your garden.

From green tones to browns and neutrals, these are the fence colors to make your home look more expensive – and they're sure to elicit plenty of compliments from guests (or prospective buyers).

1. Heritage Green

(Image credit: Okami Smide / 500px / Getty Images)

Although many experts will instruct homeowners to avoid fence colors that feel too dark, heritage green is a safe bet if you want to achieve a uniform look.

'Heritage green is a great upmarket choice because it looks established and deliberate,' says Matthew Prato, President of Garon Fence. 'It's particularly ideal for older homes and traditional brick properties.'

While bolder colors risk making your space look smaller, an earthy green tone can create a feeling of expansiveness by blending in with the foliage in your yard.

'Heritage green works well with mature planting and older brick,' adds Matthew. 'It looks smart without making the frontage feel too dark.'

Pick something like Dard Hunter Green by Sherwin Williams for a rich, timeless finish.

2. Matte Black

(Image credit: Future / Polly Eltes )

Black is another divisive color: although it's often viewed as sleek and elegant, it can absorb light and make smaller gardens feel more enclosed. Used in the right setting, however, it can help you to perfect that high-end look.

'Black is the gold standard for elegance – especially for metal fencing,' says Robert Corrao, President at Jan Fence Inc. 'Black finishes allow the fence to "fade away" visually.'

Black fencing can, in fact, frame larger spaces incredibly effectively, making them feel more open and airy than you might expect. (A softer black shade like Farrow & Ball's 'Off Black' is a great choice.)

'From a distance, the eye looks right through the black pickets to the greenery beyond, making the yard feel expansive and sophisticated,' explains Robert. 'It provides a clean, high-end frame for the property without sticking out.'

If you do opt for a black fence, you'll need to consider one crucial detail: the paint finish.

'Satin or matte black is the classic choice when you want instant polish,' says Jason Caicco, COO of Fence Depot. 'It visually tightens up the lines, makes fence panels look straighter, and reduces the “busy” look that can happen with lighter colors on detailed metalwork.'

'Matte or satin usually looks more expensive outdoors than high gloss, and it’s much more forgiving of fingerprints, rain marks, and little scuffs around the latch,' adds Matthew.

3. Warm Taupe

(Image credit: Nina Pearman / Getty Images)

If you prefer neutral palettes to inky black shades, a warm taupe fence color is guaranteed to feel elevated.

'Soft neutrals give a fence a tailored, architectural feel,' says Robert. 'They elevate the entire property without drawing too much attention to themselves.'

Neutrals are also one of the best colors to paint a fence if you want to make your yard look bigger. Pale hues reflect sunlight to achieve that airy feeling, while leaning into a sense of luxury.

'Warm, neutral tones blend into the landscaping and make the home the focal point,' says Erik Leland, Real Estate Broker at Realty First. 'Your fence should frame the yard, not compete with it.'

For a classic taupe shade, opt for Stone Castle by Benjamin Moore, or try London Stone by Farrow & Ball.

4. Off-White

It might be an age-old choice, but bright white fencing can feel clinical or harsh – which is why off-white is the superior option if you want to make your property look manicured and expensive.

'The trick is not to select an extremely brilliant white which shows every single blemish,' says Leslie Ward, interior design expert and real estate professional at Raleigh Realty. 'Instead, go for a warm off-white that has a slightly creamy tone. This will appear much softer when viewed in natural light.'

Benjamin Moore's 'Atrium White' is a soft, pink-hued shade with plenty of elegance, while Sherwin Williams' 'White Flour' is fresh and lively.

5. Natural Wood

(Image credit: Future / Annaick Guitteny)

An all-natural look can be risky: although it's the best way to create a rustic finish, it can end up feeling slightly tired. To ensure that you maintain a sense of sophistication, quality fencing is crucial – it will age beautifully, rather than becoming discolored.

'Over time, quality wood weathers to a soft, organic gray which feels grounded and authentic,' says Robert. 'This patina blends seamlessly with trees, shrubs, and stone elements to create a natural, "lived-in" space.'

If you don't love gray hues, however, natural or semi-transparent stains can be a lighter (and equally as calming) alternative.

'In my market, natural stains on cedar fences are popular and they photograph well in listings,' says Erik. 'If you're looking for an equivalent paint color, Benjamin Moore's 'Revere Pewter' or Sherwin Williams' "Agreeable Gray" will give you that warm look without feeling sterile.'

Hunting for more garden fence ideas? We asked experts to share their top fence line landscaping tips, as well as the best fence colors for pollinators, if you fancy creating a wildlife garden this summer.

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These Garden Design Tricks Can Reduce Pollen Exposure – 5 Ways to Minimize Allergies Without Compromising on Flowers

drew.swainston@futurenet.com (Drew Swainston) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:15:00 +0000

The fear of triggering allergies shouldn’t mean that anyone needs to give up on spending time in their garden. You can enjoy a space by implementing a few design choices to lessen the amount of windborne pollen you are exposed to. If you want to know how to reduce pollen in the yard, here are five ways to do it.

The key areas to reducing pollen exposure are being selective about plants and where you place them. Those that rely on insects for pollination are perfect low-pollen plant swaps for wind-pollinated ones. You can also place hedges or fences as barriers to stop pollen in your or a neighboring garden from drifting to seating areas or entrances.

Understanding how to reduce pollen in the yard doesn’t mean a space bereft of flowers. It is all about making sensible choices to minimize exposure to pollen when thinking about the layout. So, let's look at some expert-recommended design tricks that will help alleviate your allergies.

1. Avoid Wind-Pollinated Plants

(Image credit: Shutterstock/Minko Peev)

The biggest culprits in pollen exposure are wind-pollinated plants. These trees, shrubs, and perennial plants release large amounts of lightweight pollen into the air, triggering allergies.

To reduce pollen exposure, a simple change is to choose insect-pollinated plants. These species produce heavier pollen and often require brighter, more fragrant flowers to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

The worst pollen-producing trees include oaks, birch, and cedars, while flowers to avoid planting in the busiest areas of the garden or near entrances include asters, sunflowers, chrysanthemums, daisies, ragweed, and ornamental grasses.

2. Have Low-Pollen Plants in Busier Areas

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

When planning a garden, opt for insect-pollinated plants closest to the home and around busier areas, such as decks and patios. Keeping high-pollen plants away from entrances and areas you commonly relax or host in can dramatically reduce pollen exposure.

Lucie Bradley from Easy Garden Irrigation recommends begonia, clematis, and snapdragons for low-allergen garden ideas, rather than wisteria, jasmine, or asters, which can release large amounts of airborne pollen.

When it comes to growing snapdragons in particular, the gardening expert says: ‘Snapdragons produce tall spikes of bright color, making them ideal for adding vertical interest to borders, whilst dwarf varieties are often added to planters and window boxes.

‘Whilst their ‘snap’ flowers are extremely pollinator friendly, helping to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds into your garden, the closed nature of their flowers prevents their pollen from becoming airborne, making them ideal low-pollen plants for allergy sufferers.’

You can see the range of Snapdragon flower seeds at True Leaf Market to sow at home.

Matt Tutt, Head Gardener at Aguacateros, adds: ‘Lots of fruit trees are good choices too - like apples and pears, because they mainly rely on pollination by insects and not the wind.’ You can get apple and pear trees at Fast Growing Trees.

Using ground cover plants or mulching flower beds also helps prevent weeds from germinating. As many common weeds are heavy pollen producers, keeping them at bay reduces exposure to pollen.

3. Place High-Pollen Plants Farthest Away

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

You don’t need to abandon higher-pollen plants completely. Many of these are beautiful additions to a landscape and offer texture and movement as well as blooms.

However, when planning your yard, position these plants as far away as possible from doors, windows, seating, and relaxing areas.

Also consider the airflow in the garden. Positioning any high-pollen species downwind means pollen is directed away from the home or where allergy sufferers may sit.

Matt Tutt, a gardener and hay fever sufferer, admits: ‘I love many trees, but sadly these can trigger some allergies because they rely on wind pollination.

‘For me, because I love trees, I still planted many of them in my garden, but I just put them in a position where they shouldn't be in close contact regularly. They are right at the back of the garden.’

4. Create Barriers to Block Pollen

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

‘There’s no such thing as a completely pollen-free garden, but you can design for lower exposure by prioritizing diversity, avoiding high concentrations of wind-pollinated species, and creating physical buffer zones with dense hedges and fences,’ claims Dominique Kline, Farm Director at The Hope Farm in Fairhope, Alabama.

Hedges, walls, and fences can block pollen movement. Whether the aim is to create garden rooms to reduce pollen exposure or to stop pollen from coming in from neighboring gardens, you can block off areas where people spend the most time.

If you opt for hedging plants, choose dense, non-wind-pollinated hedges that rely on insects for pollination. The likes of hawthorn, holly, guelder rose, and pyracantha are attractive insect-pollinated hedge species to consider.

A dense hedge or fence would need to be between 5 and 7 feet high to block airborne pollen and reduce wind.

5. Reduce the Lawn

(Image credit: Future / TATTERSALL LOVE LTD )

A lawn can release a massive amount of pollen into the air. If you are a fan of taking the lawn mower out regularly, you can keep the lawn low and prevent flowering to reduce pollen exposure.

However, an alternative is to replace areas of traditional lawn with hard landscaping. Replacing grass with patios, decking, or gravel will stop pollen spikes that often occur from mowing grass.

If you do remove a lawn, add insect-pollinated plants around hard landscaping. Having containers on decks or flower beds around patios can provide colorful flowers and food for local pollinators.

What to Shop

Ambassador White Begonia

Begonias are insect-pollinated plants with low levels of heavy pollen that doesn't readily get airborne. This pack contains four shade-loving plants with white blooms.

Jolly Good Clematis

Clematis produces little airborne pollen, and this variety has showy purple blooms with white stamens that attract lots of butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.

Rozanne Hardy Geranium

Hardy geraniums are insect-pollinated and spread little pollen. Rozanne is a cultivar that can flower from late spring right through to the frosts, but won’t self-seed or spread.

Pollinators are crucial for a thriving garden, especially when you fill a yard with insect-pollinated plants. You can plant for pollinators, whatever the size of the space you have.

From containers on a deck to flower beds or wildflower meadows, there is a great range of plants for pollinators to choose from, with the likes of milkweed, coneflower, lavender, and joe pye-weed among some of the best.

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This Low-Cost Structure Will Take Your Raised Garden Beds From Ordinary To Beautiful In Minutes

Jill Morgan — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Adding height, or specifically arches, is a go-to design trick loved by professional garden designers. Instantly lifting the gaze, adding shape and form plus subtly dividing up a plot, they can work miracles in transforming the plainest of yards.

Take this simple design tip one step further and slot two or three inexpensive arches into successive raised beds and you will have a swoon-worthy botanical walkway, that will not only dazzle throughout the year but provide endless planting and outdoor lighting opportunities too.

Just one of many raised bed garden ideas to try, this outdoor project takes very little time, effort and outlay to achieve.

Why This Simple Garden Upgrade Works

(Image credit: Alamy/ Mike Jarman)

Introducing vertical accents into any landscape will instantly draw attention. Whether it is a lone tree, simple structure or figurative sculpture, any upright will interrupt the horizontal flow of the land, visually link the ground to the sky above all while demanding closer scrutiny.

Garden arches spanning raised beds, work exactly the same way. They instantly add height while visually balancing angular raised beds, plus they entice viewers to walk through them and explore the framed area beyond.

This simple rounded carbon steel arch from Amazon, is perfect for creating your own botanical tunnel. Add two, three or more into aligned raised beds, so they span the central path, ready to support your choice of climbing plants.

Consider Size And Scale

(Image credit: Marian Boswall)

Proportions matter when it comes to choosing a garden arch, as Landscape Design Expert, Gerardo Loayza describes.

'A constant mistake I see people making is buying a standard 7 ft arch because they are 5 ft 8 in and they think it's plenty of room, but then they forget the sag of the plants, heavy vines, hanging plants, drooping tomatoes. They'll easily hang 12 to 18 in down from the top of the arch.'

He also notes, 'You need an absolute minimum of 8 ft clearance; otherwise, you're going to be ducking or taking a squash to the face every time you walk through. Also, don't forget that if you mount an 8 ft arch inside a 2 ft tall raised bed, your walking clearance is suddenly only 5 ft.'

Choose The Right Style Arch For A Plant Covered Walkway

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Moelyn Photos)

Creating a plant covered walkway from pre-formed arches is a smart and stylish way to transform raised beds. With so many products to choose from, you can tailor the result to suit personal preferences.

'When it comes to materials for an arch, it really depends on what you want to stare at in the off-season,' Gerardo advises. 'If you go with a thick cedar or oak, this acts as permanent architecture and brings heavy visual weight. Then there are the thin metals, which can practically vanish against the background. It lets climbing vines be the absolute star of the show.'

Key styles of garden arch include:

Gothic arches tend to have a tall, narrow and gracefully pointed outline and can make a theatrical statement when paired with sultry lavished tones, whether its the petals of a velvety purple clematis such as Sweet Summer Love or deep crimson Munstead Wood Rose both from Burpee.

Rounded designs - like this wooden one from Lowe's - have a traditional feel and work particularly well with romantic climbing roses, such as David Austin's Generous Gardener from Heirloom Roses.

For a delicate touch try this Monet Metal Arch from Walmart - the fine wirework panels are perfect for slender stemmed sweet peas including lilac Leamington from Premier Seeds Direct.

Straight topped arches create a contemporary statement and are amongst the defining features of a Japanese garden.

Planting A Botanical Walkway With A Difference

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Westend61)

Creating a plant covered walkway in your yard, can prove a magical point and place to wander through, but these transitional spaces don't have to be swathed in perfumed roses or tumbling trumpet vine. Instead why not use the opportunity to grow edible or ornamental crops, increasing your plot's productivity and nourishing the family too.

'An arch changes a raised bed from a flat planting strip into productive growing space, giving you more growing room without needing more square footage because you’re stacking bloom and fruit overhead instead of spreading wider,’ says plant expert Laura Coggan.

‘For an edible option, Taste of Heaven™ thornless blackberry turns an arch into a harvest feature, and in warm climates Nancy Garrison passion fruit adds dramatic flowers and fruit on the same support. Luffa Gourd is another smart choice because the vines shade the arch in summer and the mature gourds give you a useful harvest at the end of the season.’

For more climbing edimentals try these:

Mix bold colored peas and beans - for a productive summer veg tunnel try Heirloom Purple Podded Peas with yellow Monte Gusto Pole Bean seeds, both Burpee.

Add a sculptural crop - with patty pan squash, such as Burpee's Sunburst Squash , zucchini including quirky Trombonchino, seeds from Amazon or curvy Birdhouse gourd, seeds from Amazon

Make the most of a hot, sunny spot - by growing grapes. Ideal for training over a series of arches, there are plenty of different use varieties to choose from at Burpee.

For a tropical feel - try prolific vines with ornamental foliage and fruit, such as the fragrant Maypops passionflower plant from Burpee or Cucamelon, seeds available from Amazon.

Making Your Arch Safe And Secure

(Image credit: Alamy/ Mike Jarman)

Ensuring newly erected garden arches are safe, secure and unable to be dislodged by people, pets or dramatic weather conditions is hugely important.

Where most arches can be sunk directly into the soil the extra height gained by placing them into raised beds can make them particularly vulnerable to toppling. This is especially true when climbing plants are in full leaf and caught in strong winds.

To be doubly sure they remain secure, consider fixing each arch upright directly to the raised bed.

Methods to consider include:

Screw horizontally through each arch upright into the inner side of the raised bed.

Slot a metal ground spike onto each arch foot and drive into the ground to create a firm anchor

Set the base of each arch in concrete or similar, below the soil level of your raised bed. Postloc from Amazon is a fast-setting concrete alternative.

If you are impressed with how a garden arch can transform your outside space, then explore other design tips and tasks such as how to put up a wall trellis. You can also plan ahead by knowing the 5 best climbers to plant in May.

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How to Design a Healing Garden This Spring – Stress-Reducing Plants and Layouts That Really Work to Reduce Cortisol

sarahwilsonjournalist@gmail.com (Sarah Wilson) — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

One of the defining ideas behind how to design a healing garden is that the space unfolds as you move through it, then feels like a cocoon when you decide to sit and pause a while. A healing garden designed with intention should reduce stress and anxiety, help you focus on feeling calmer, and improve the quality of your sleep. In addition to being a wonderful place to spend your downtime.

Therapeutic elements in any wellness garden generally include a contemplative seating area, a soothing water feature, and layered planting featuring feelgood aromatic scents and rustling, textured grasses to enrich the experience of time spent in the garden. Pollinating plants, bird baths and houses, and bee hotels to attract wildlife will give you an extra dimension to connect with beyond the purely visual.

A healing garden works best when it feels immersive, offers seclusion, and is a little hidden from the rest of the garden. It should invite you to pause and take a break from the world, and you should feel a deep connection with it. We spoke to leading wellbeing and plant experts to find out how to design and create your very own healing garden.

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

How To Design A Healing Garden: 5 Key Things To Know

'Green space reduces cortisol measurably, but the healing isn't in the plants themselves,' explains New York based psychologist Natalie Buchwald.

'It is in the sensory engagement: the texture of soil, the sound of moving water, the smell of earth after rain. The garden works because it pulls you into your body and out of your head, and that is a physiological event.'

Planning and designing a healing garden aims to produce intentional therapeutic benefits such as reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and calm focus. 'The garden is immediate, concrete, and sensory,' adds Natalie.

'You cannot be in the garden and also be fully in an anxious thought loop. The two states compete, and the sensory environment usually wins if the design invites engagement rather than observation.'

1. Create A Sense of Refuge Using Biophilic Design

This secluded seating space is perfect for stepping back from the busy routine of daily life (Image credit: Sarah Cuttle/RHS)

There is strong evidence connecting nature, views of nature, and access to nature with improved mental health, reduced stress, and better sleep patterns. We can strengthen this link by using biophilic garden design trends that seek to connect us more closely with nature.

'What we’ve learned in healthcare translates directly to healing gardens everywhere,' says Shane Pliska, a recognized expert in biophilia who designs and builds gardens, particularly healing environments for hospitals and medical facilities.

'Our in-house team has worked extensively with major hospitals, assisted living, and memory care communities. At their best, these spaces are not just landscapes, they influence how people feel and recover.'

According to Shane we all need a place of refuge where we can relax. 'That means designing spaces where you can sit without feeling exposed, tucked into a grove of trees, under a canopy, or in a quiet garden alcove. A healing garden should offer nooks, and areas of protection and privacy.'

We also need to layer our sensory experiences in the healing garden to engage our senses without overwhelming them. 'This means using soft grasses and foliage, and filtered light that creates visual softness,' says psychotherapist Rachel Melvald, founder of Psychitecture™ and author of bestselling book Neurodesign: The Art and Science of Harmonious Living, available from Amazon.

'Biophilia is how nature heals us. It's everything found in nature that our primitive brains are attracted to, especially leaves, patterns and shapes.'

2. Use Curvilinear Design To Reduce Stress And Anxiety

The gentle curves in this design are soothing and calming (Image credit: RHS/Sarah Cuttle)

'When we look at a garden from a Psychitecture perspective, we want it to be healing,' says Dr Rachel Melvald. 'We're going to look at the layout for regulation and flow. So we introduce curvature as it's easier on the brain, using curving paths promoting safety and exploration to define zones.'

'Winding pathways leading to meditation areas with benches or hammocks serve as a quiet escape for those looking to find inner peace,' Dr Lori Bohn, Medical Director at Voyager Recovery Center.

'Curved walking paths made of natural stone or soft, crushed gravel encourage slower more mindful walking that reduces stress and promotes a much calmer focus. Open areas can be designated for activities like yoga, tai chi, or other forms of mindful stretching.'

This idea also translates into designing quiet areas for seating incorporated into a curvilinear design. This works as these reflective spaces act like a protective cocoon around us, which allows us to make a connection with our calmer selves and feel the benefits of horticultural therapy.

3. Tap Into The Sensory Benefits of Using Aromatic Plants

Scented plants like lavender are a key feature in the healing garden (Image credit: Plantipp)

Plants with aromatic scents such as lavender, rosemary and thyme placed near seating can aid in reducing anxiety by promoting deep breathing.

You can find vibrant Hidcote lavender plants at Fast Growing Trees.

Aromatic plants work on our olfactory and memory systems, helping us relax and creating a more positive mood. They are also beneficial in promoting improved sleep.

'Flowers like echinacea (coneflower) and calendula will also provide brief moments of vibrant color to enhance your mood without becoming too stimulating,' says Dr Lori Bohn.

'In addition, I suggest including trees and shrubs that add natural shade and create an enclosed atmosphere. This provides a sense of safety and comfort in your garden space.'

These crimson coneflower from Fast Growing Trees are certain to boost your mood.

Incorporating various textures throughout your garden allows you to experience your surroundings through multiple sensory means at once. Plantscaping with ornamental grasses is the go-to for adding soothing texture and movement.

'Research has shown that using multi-sensory experiences simultaneously can have a positive effect on stress levels and sleep quality,' adds Lori.

4. Design A Soothing Contemplation Garden With Color and Water

A water feature offers a space for contemplation while pops of color are uplifting (Image credit: Sarah Cuttle/RHS)

Intent is everything when working out how to design a healing garden. Your first step should be to discern what exactly you're looking to feel in your garden.

'If you crave escape, comfort and contemplation you will want to be soothed by a plant palette that focuses more on native native trees, shrubs, shades of green and texture,' says regenerative landscape designer Trevor Smith.

'In a contemplation garden the path leads to a destination, and the sounds of a water feature are low, slow and rhythmic. A contemplation garden feels like a green hug.'

Natalie Buchwald advises minimizing visual complexity at the far edges of the space, where the eye tends to travel and the mind to wander. 'Prioritize sound (water features, wind in grasses) over visual spectacle.

'Include something to touch and something to tend. The tending is important. Caring for something living at a pace slower than your nervous system is its own form of regulation.'

Try this hanging solar bird bath fountain from Amazon to create a gently, soothing sound, powered by the sun.

The most successful healing gardens create a magical world. 'They allow the mind to step out of its current stress and into something calmer,' says Shane Pliska. 'Tell a story, incorporate art, sculpture or history to help you escape from the world and enter your designed world. If you lose track of time in a space, that’s when you know it’s working.'

5. Use Balance To Create A Sense of Order

This nook has the combined benefits of immersive planting and a pond (Image credit: Tim Sandall/RHS)

Creating a healing garden is very personal and is all about balance. 'With intentional planning, you can create a natural pollinator garden and refined landscape design that allows you to appreciate the blooms and get that healing benefit,' says landscaping expert Joe Raboine.

'Choosing native perennials and shrubs that support pollinators while incorporating tidy, structured elements such as paver pathways, raised beds or decorative panels creates a great balance that allows the garden to feel livable.'

These add a sense of order to the space, creating a beautiful intentional, lived-in feel without compromising the natural, blooming appeal. Adding features like ponds or birdhouses also brings your design balance and therapeutic elements.

'Overtime, you can monitor wildlife and adapt your garden based on what thrives,' add Joe. A few recommendations for specific natives would be region-specific natives like milkweed, coneflowers, switchgrass, elderberry, or clover to attract pollinators and support wildlife.

'Combine open lawn space with quiet secluded spaces where you can simply sit or do some light stretching,' says Dr Lori Bohn. 'Changes in elevation, even small ones, can add to a sense of discovery and participation within your space, yet never overwhelm you.'

One last tip on how to design a healing garden. A well-designed healing space blocks what you don’t want to hear, and replaces it with something you do want to hear. 'Physical barriers like sunken gardens, courtyard garden ideas, and berms create pockets of quiet, particularly in places of refuge,' says Shane Pliska.

'You can also layer in intentional sound, such as water feature ideas, a trickling stream, even curated natural audio, to create a consistent, calming backdrop. When you get the sound right, the whole space settles.'

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How to Design a Garden for Extreme Heat – 5 Thermal Garden Design Ideas That Will Keep You Cool

sarahwilsonjournalist@gmail.com (Sarah Wilson) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Thermal garden design is the big new trend for 2026 that aims to offer a solution to extreme heat. An aesthetic response to hotter summers and climate change, designers are using a combination of restrained greens, soft neutrals, and natural materials to make gardens feel visually and physically cooler.

Many award-winning gardens are starting to play with thermal garden design ideas according to the Society of Garden and Landscape Designers (SGLD). These include temperature perception, using cool stone hardscaping, water features and calming green, gray and silver planting combinations to create spaces that feel both refreshing and calm.

The thermal garden design trend shows us how to create a garden for extreme heat. It develops key principles such as how to use shade, materials, water and plants, revealing how to grow in the hottest corner of your yard to create a cooling design. Now find out how you can tap into the trend and turn your garden into a place you want to spend more time in when the heat is relentless.

A split-level townhouse garden design shows how to use cooling plants to break up areas of hardscaping (Image credit: Adolfo Harrison Landscape Studio/Photograph Mischa Haller)

Thermal Garden Design Ideas That Will Cool Your Space

'Thermal garden design influences the temperature of your outdoor space, creating a comfortable living area ready to enjoy,' says California-based landscape architect Clay Tully.

'If an outdoor space is not comfortable or convenient, it will go unused and become wasted space no matter what good intentions you may have starting out.'

When faced with designing gardens in areas with extreme heat, there are several approaches you can use to put the thermal garden design concept into play. 'Dial back strong colors and focus on foliage, texture, and pale materials,' advises the SGLD.

'Pair light-colored stone or paving with soft, silvery plants to make small patios, terraces and other garden spaces feel cooler and more inviting.'

1. Think Carefully About Tree Choice And Placement

A palo verde tree perfectly shades this seating area (Image credit: Douglas Friedman/Hoerr Schaudt )

Choosing the best trees for climate change and thinking carefully about how to integrate them into your garden is a great starting point in thermal garden design. By planting the right tree in the right place, you're helping to ensure that the trees in your yard will offer cooling shade as well as being resilient in future.

'Strategically placing trees is one of the best and most cost-effective ways to change the microclimate on a hot site,' says Clay Tully. 'This will provide shade, instant cooling, and help define the garden.' It's a key element of desert landscaping ideas too.

For dappled shade, Clay suggests considering tree varieties like palo verde or desert willow, which you can find at Fast Growing Trees. For deep shade he advises opting for a larger faster-growing, estate-style tree such as the camphor, Chinese pistache, southern magnolia, or fruitless olive.

Choose species that are native to your region, as these are much more likely to be adapted to the climate so they will thrive. It's worth finding out how climate change is affecting growing conditions in your area too.

2. Choose Climate Appropriate Plants In Cooling Colors

In a cool gray planter this silver-toned planting features the Blue Chalk Sticks plant (Image credit: Yanisland/Getty Images)

'Filling open areas with lush plantings and reducing hardscape significantly cuts down on the "heat island effect",' says Clay.

'The more soft green space you have, the less radiated heat you'll experience. For hot climates I like tough evergreens such as Germander, Manzanita, or succulents like Red Yucca (Hesperaloe), available from Fast Growing Trees, and Cotyledon.'

Choose drought-tolerant planting that is well-suited to your local climate. Think about foliage color too. Look for plants in calming gray-green or silver tones that have low-to-moderate water requirements and will adapt to thermal garden design.

Choose soft swathes of plants with silver foliage as this will add a cooling note to the aesthetic when you're considering how to plan a dry garden. Try lamb's ears (Stachys byzantina) and Senecio candidans 'Angel Wings'. These evergreen plants are a must for thermal garden design, and can be planted en masse as a practical ground cover option.

Finally, sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) is a tall silver foliage perennial that can be used as a filler in borders.

Plants For Hot Climates

Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)

This native, drought-tolerant, broadleaved evergreen handles dry soils with ease and is a good fit for rock gardens.

Germander Seeds (Teucrium canadense)

The dense flower spikes of this perennial herb make quite a show especially as they are paired with cool gray foliage.

Manzanita (Arctostaphylos) Plant Seeds

This striking plant holds its evergreen leaves perpendicular to the sun to avoid moisture loss. It has tiny pink flowers.

3. Knock Back on Hardscaping And Choose Pale Materials

In this thermal garden design by Clay Tully Dymondia has been planted to creep along the joints in the pavers and reduce the surface area radiating heat (Image credit: Clay Tully Landscape Architecture)

Large areas of hardscaping such as brick or concrete walls and paved patios attract sunlight and hold heat, creating pockets of warm air. The smaller your garden the hotter it will feel. The response is often to plant more vegetation to reduce the heat island effect.

'Breaking up large paved areas reduces the surface area radiating heat,' explains Clay Tully. 'Add ground cover plants to create planted "joints" using the low spreading variety of lamb's ears 'Silver Carpet', or creeping 'Elfin Thyme'. Alternatively swap concrete entirely for decomposed granite, which radiates far less heat and cools faster too.'

It's a good idea to choose pale natural stone and light-colored hardscaping finishes like these porcelain pavers from Wayfair as these tend to feel cooler. Avoid dark colors when choosing pavers for patios and other hardscaped areas as these will store heat.

The best solution for thermal garden design is a layered approach that blends dappled shade, cooler landscaping materials in pale colors, and purposeful planting to create an environment that is a pleasure to be in during the hottest months of summer.

4. Find Ways to Make Your Garden As Shaded As Possible

This pergola frames a pondless rain curtain water feature spilling into cobbles below (Image credit: Clay Tully Landscape Architecture)

In addition to the tree shade option discussed already there are many other ways to make your garden a more shaded space to bring relief from extreme heat during the hottest summer months.

One of the most popular options is pergola ideas. Choose pergola designs with additions like a retractable roof and roll-down screens to offer added heat protection.

'Build a pergola or buy a kit from brands like Mirador or Pergolux,' suggests Clay Tully. 'This can be expensive depending what type you choose, but it does instantly provide shade over an outdoor living area needing relief from the sun.'

Adding a combination of trellis ideas and fast-growing climbing plants lets you create a natural canopy that offers enticing dappled shade.

A pergola can also be customized to add extra elements to battle extreme heat. 'You can add an outdoor fan for air circulation, misters for extra cooling, or choose a model with a louvre system that opens and closes to control light from 100% shade down to a light glow,' says Clay.

5. Include Water In Your Design As A Cooling Element

This urban courtyard garden features lush planting and cascading water in handmade troughs (Image credit: Tim Sandall/RHS)

For centuries water has been used in garden design as a cooling punctuation point. Beautiful garden pond and water feature ideas cool by evaporation as well as adding a soothing place to dabble your fingers in the water on hot days.

Water in any capacity is a refreshing addition in thermal garden design. It doesn't have to be complicated. You can opt for easy standalone features such as water spouts and water bowls, like this green slate fountain bowl from Wayfair.

'Pond-less water features such as basalt columns or stone bird baths spilling into decorative cobbles create a beautiful focal point while providing a meaningful cooling effect,' says Clay. 'Moving water cools far more effectively than still and stagnant water, which can actually heat up in direct sunlight.'

In this design (above) a trio of antique water spouts feed a series of small pools. A rill passes through the planting leading into a final cascade.

The gentle sound of the water creates a soothing soundscape. It's a wonderful example of how to use thermal garden design ideas to create a stunning focal point.

Thermal garden design is often a natural fit with xeriscaping ideas and desert modernism landscaping, as both choose design that allows the built and natural worlds to converge to deal with extreme heat.

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6 Easy Design Tweaks You Can Do Right Now – To Make Your Garden Look Like a Professional Styled It

Edward Bowring — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Having survived the wind and even snow of winter, our gardens can look pretty beaten and uninviting for the warmer months ahead. Thankfully, there are a few simple tweaks that you can make to your front or backyard to make it look styled by summer.

Read on to discover horticultural experts' easy fixes and tips on how to create an outdoor space you will want to spend time in when the weather warms up. From large borders to small patios, here are six easy design tweaks to style a garden by summer.

Whether you are looking to create a colourful pot display or a raised bed area to grow cut flowers or vegetables this season, these backyard ideas are a wealth of inspiration to help you plan out a new design.

(Image credit: Getty Images/Jacky Parker Photography)

Layer Heights for Instant Depth

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Jacky Parker)

Providing depth, structure, and lushness, layering plants is an easy method to create form and interest in an otherwise bare garden or patio.

Jessica Mercer, Senior Content Marketing Coordinator and plant expert at Plant Addicts, suggests, ‘Start with one backbone plant per area, and build down from it. In a sunny bed, that might be a panicle hydrangea or an upright grass in the back (or center of an island bed).

'Then select medium-sized plants, like coneflower, salvia, or daylilies for the midlayer, and in front, create a low edge that repeats, such as sedum, creeping thyme, or coral bells. Keep the tall plants slightly behind the mids (not in a straight line), and plant in small groups of 3-5 to create visual harmony.’

If you do not have beds or borders, tiered planters, such as this Costway 3-tier black metal deck box planter, available from Lowes, are a great way of layering plants, whether for a balcony, porch, or patio, and are excellent where space is at a premium.

Coordinate Color

(Image credit: Getty Images/Jacky Parker Photography)

Coordinating a plant color scheme can seem a daunting task for both new and experienced gardeners, but it needn’t be. If you stick to the general principles of choosing a limited number of colors and use those that complement each other, you cannot go too wrong.

When asked for her advice on coordinating colors, Jessica replied, ‘Pick two colors that play well together and let green foliage tie the planting together. Complementary colors purple and yellow are easy to combine: think catmint or salvia with coreopsis or black-eyed Susans.

These colors look bright without feeling garish. Another natural pairing is blue and orange, e.g., Russian sage or blue salvia with orange daylilies or marigolds. You can always add a little white (white alyssum, white phlox, white petunias) to calm down the palette if necessary.’

Producing low, wide carpets of pure white flowers, Carpet of Snow Alyssum, available from Burpee is ideal for toning down vivid hues or lining a pathway. Equally, plant it in a container and let it spill over the sides for a softer look.

Create Focal Points That Anchor a Space

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

Another tip to help style a garden by summer is the addition of a focal point. A key element of garden design, focal points have many benefits, including drawing attention away from unattractive areas.

When it comes to using focal points, Karen Daubmann, Director of Garden and Programs at Massachusetts Horticultural Society, says ‘A focal point is typically put at a distance, sometimes at the farthest part of the garden. It is a clue to the safety of the path, a visual reminder of the boundary and available space.

'This anchor is the spot your eyes will go to in the distance, and often the perspective will feel lengthened by the addition of this element. It is where your eyes rest, it is a constant no matter the season. The backdrop may change; the approach may change, but the anchor survives.’

From garden art to a topiary shrub or water fountain, focal points can be anything, so it is worth finding something that gives you pleasure to look at. As Karen advises, ‘they should reflect you, and your personality and interests.’

Water can be a calming addition to any garden and will even help to attract wildlife. Suitable for placing in a border or on a patio, this Crescent garden delano oval planter bowl from Amazon, could provide an interesting focal point when planted with succulents or filled with water.

Alternatively, if you prefer the warm rusted patina of Corten steel, this Gardener's Supply Company Corten Steel sculpture, from Amazon would provide a restful spot in a border for your eyes to linger.

Patio & Border Styling

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

If you are wondering how to make even a small outdoor space feel designed, you will be pleased to know that just a few tweaks can make all the difference. For example, just the presence of some clean lines or layered containers can add a designed feeling to your garden.

Intentional, defined boundaries are an effective way to create clean lines and make a backyard appear uncluttered and calmer. A key feature of minimalist gardens, you can achieve clean lines through using lawn edging, such as this Colmet steel landscape edging available from Lowes, or clean-cut pavers and defined pathways.

When styling a border, applying a mulch around the planting can instantly improve its appearance. Not only used to lock in moisture and suppress weeds, a mulch like this Sta-Green premium black mulch from Lowes also provides a uniform backdrop to your plants and a professional-looking finishing touch.

For patios, you may be limited to pots and planters, but this by no means limits your styling potential. Odd numbers of plants are always advised, as this can produce a more natural and balanced appearance.

Karen suggests, ‘Groupings of three are incredibly helpful when you’re buying plants and containers,’ furthermore, ‘Choosing some neutrals as your basics, and splurging some pops of your favorite color will help to make your garden feel fresh each year.’

Don't Forget Scale & Proportion

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs Photography/Future)

It is all too easy to fill a shopping cart with enticing plants without considering their final, mature size. But, to avoid an overly-filled and unbalanced border or patio space, giving some thought to how they will look when fully grown is required.

When matching plants and shrubs to a garden space, Jessica recommends ‘matching the plant’s mature size to the space, not the tiny pot it came in. In a small front bed, one larger shrub is usually enough, and everything else should be mid-to-low so the planting doesn’t swallow the walkway.

In a bigger bed, you can repeat a few larger anchors interplanted with mids and groundcovers to avoid empty mulch islands. If something feels too bulky, swap in a slimmer upright plant (like an ornamental grass) instead of adding more low plants to hide the problem.’

Scented shrubs are ideal for adding an extra element to a container or a border and having grown many lilacs in the gardens I have managed over my career, I always look forward to their spring blooms and appealing scent.

Considered hardy in zone 3 and above, this Bloomerang® dark purple lilac from Nature Hills, produces intensely fragrant deep purple flowers from spring onwards.

Seasonal Timing

(Image credit: Getty Images/ aopsan)

Spring is a glorious time of year to enjoy a garden. However, it is also a busy month if you want your yard to look its best over the coming months.

To stay ahead of the game, Jessica suggests that ‘March is the best time for clean-up and spacing decisions. Cut back old perennial stems, edge the bed for a clean outline, top-dress with compost, and mulch after the soil starts to warm. You can also divide and replant any crowded perennials while they’re still dormant.

If you want a full look by summer, fill gaps with fast growers, like hardy annuals or early container plantings, so the bed doesn’t look sparse while the perennials wake up.’

Hardy and half-hardy annuals are perfect for filling in any last-minute gaps and can either be grown from seed or purchased as plugs or plants. Adored for their long-blooming season and a magnet for pollinators, cosmos are available in both pastel and vivid hues.

However, for a classical white, these Psyche white cosmos seeds from Burpee are perfect for containers and borders and look stunning at dusk when the light levels drop.

Keeping up with garden design tips is a brilliant way of making sure your outside space looks on trend. However, not every design is sure to work in every garden. Discover why garden design tricks might look amazing on Pinterest, but fail in real life, and what the experts recommend you do instead.

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Instantly Refresh Your Yard for Spring with These 2 Designer Color Tricks

Helen Cross — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Spring is in the air, and as the days begin to stretch, I'm sure, like me, you are spending more time in your yard, while also itching to change things up a little to give your outdoor space a bit of a refresh as temperatures begin to rise. And one easy way to make an instant change is to introduce a new color palette for your beds, borders, or containers.

The good news is you don't have to break the bank to give your yard a springtime glow-up. Color can bring about an immediate impact, adding vibrancy and depth to your spring garden ideas. Choosing three or four complementary colors will create cohesion and drama for your backyard ideas, while mixing in foliage with colors for depth will help keep your yard looking lush and vibrant all summer long.

To find out more, I spoke to two US garden designers to find out what they would do to help you focus on your next garden chapter, and they shared their two distinctive methods.

A new color palette can bring instant change to your yard (Image credit: NA/Alamy Stock Photos )

Cohesive Color

Chicago based landscape designer Hayden Regina knows a thing or two about giving yards a refresh and believes the key is to focus on repeat planting using the same or similar colors and shades.

He tells me, 'A useful way to make a spring refresh feel intentional rather than piecemeal is to think in terms of matrix planting. He gives us an example of a soothing palette in blue hues.

'Rather than arranging plants as individual specimens, the garden can be organized around a consistent base layer that repeats. When the same colors and textures recur across the planting, the whole composition reads as a single tapestry rather than a series of disconnected plants.

'A dependable matrix can begin with something like Sesleria autumnalis (or autumn moor grass) as the constant. Its fine, mounding foliage forms a soft green ground plane that visually ties the planting together from early spring through fall. Through that layer, drifts of Amsonia ‘Blue Ice’ emerge in spring with clear blue flowers and a compact, upright habit. You can find Amsonia 'Blue Ice' perennial plants available from Amazon.

'As the season progresses, the hardy geranium ‘Rozanne’ extends the color story with violet-blue blooms that repeat for months. Together, these three plants create structure, continuity, and a long season of interest while keeping the palette calm and cohesive.'

Hayden continues, 'To prevent the planting from feeling flat, introduce punctuation plants that rise above the matrix with distinctive form. Sculptural perennials such as Eryngium ‘Prairie Moon’, Digitalis ferruginea, or Echinacea pallida bring vertical movement and contrast without disrupting the composition. You can find great-value Echinacea pallida seeds at Amazon.

'Their silhouettes, whether the architectural grey thistles of eryngium, the warm spires of rust foxglove, or the graceful, nodding petals of pale coneflower, read as rhythmic markers moving through the planting. This creates a spatial condition rather than many focal points.'

Edimentals are not only beautiful but also delicious and a great way to inject change into your yard this spring. (Image credit: Getty/Jacky Parker Photography)

Color Bursts

If you like the idea of growing edimentals, another way to bring some change this spring with color is by choosing some new edible plants for your borders, as Ashley Irene, founder of Heirloom Potager based in South California, shared with me.

'I love to layer in a color story, mixing warm and cool season flowers, most of which are edible, to complement the future fruits and vegetables growing into the warm season.

'For clients who love a warm color story, I'll mix white alyssum with red and yellow violas and pansies, paired with Alaskan nasturtium, and a mix of red, orange, and yellow ranunculus or poppies for the cool season layered against green cabbages, colorful lettuce mixes, and arugula.

'As the weather warms, red petunias, orange and yellow marigolds, and edible celosia are added when tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants are transplanted.'

This edible wild flower seed mix from Amazon would be a quick and simple way to create your own take on this idea.

There is no limit to Ashley's imagination when it comes to injecting change that not only looks beautiful but also taste delicious and edimentals are a great way to do just that.

She continues, 'Black Strawberry tomatoes, purple jalapeños, and a mix of warm-season greens, such as arugula, Swiss chard, and kale offer a beautiful mix of foliage to accent the color story.'

Dahlias are a must to plant this spring if you want to make an impact this summer and into fall. (Image credit: Alex Manders / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

To ensure a smooth transition after your spring flowering bulbs begin to fade you will want to focus on choosing a palette of color for summer flowering bulbs. Think lilies, gladiolas and dahlias. The good news is there are so many wonderful varieties to choose from, the difficulty will be choosing a palette that reflects your style of gardening and your personality.

Or you could also consider sowing a wildflower meadow in your yard, which will provide a succession of different flowers throughout the summer and also provide a feast for pollinators, adding a different type of life and energy to your greenspace. This wildflower seed mix available from Amazon contains 21 different types of wildflowers, which will bring vibrancy and color with minimal effort.

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Wildfires Are Already Spreading – Experts Say This ‘Fire Moat’ Landscaping Trick Could Help Protect Your Home in 2026

Martha Davies — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Wildfires are sweeping across Kansas and Oklahoma right now, and homeowners are being urged to take precautions to protect their properties from damage.

More than a dozen fires have already ravaged the Plains, with a catastrophic 'megafire' tearing across thousands of acres. As the emergency continues, many buildings have been evacuated, while homeowners in surrounding areas have begun to fireproof their backyards and homes – including creating 'fire moats'.

While it might sound complex or extravagant, a fire moat is simply a landscaping technique that creates a non-combustible perimeter around a property. If fire spreads, the moat can serve as a crucial line of defence, preventing flames or wind-driven embers from contacting the exterior of your home.

Below, we ask experts how to build a fire moat – and why it's such an effective way to protect a property. You'll also find a handy selection of fire-proofing supplies, from mixed gravel (which you can pick up at Walmart) to fire-resistant safety netting.

In simple terms, a moat is a fire-smart landscaping idea which uses non-combustible materials to create a protective barrier.

'Creating a non-combustible zone or fire moat within five feet of structures is one of the most significant things a homeowner can do to prevent their home from igniting during a wildfire,' explains Ivan O’Neill
Co-Founder and CEO of Madronus Wildfire Defense. 'Some common materials used to create this zone are rock mulches, concrete, decomposed granite, and pavers.'

Homes can catch fire after embers land on flammable outdoor surfaces like bark or leaves – so replacing these with non-combustible materials can significantly reduce the risk of fire damage.

'Ember-resistant landscaping like stone can help minimize radiant heat exposure and prevent direct flame contact up the sides of your home,' says Cameron Figgins, Certified Restoration Contractor and President of Absolute Maintenance & Consulting. 'More importantly, it helps prevent embers from collecting on a home's exterior, such as stucco siding or foundation vents, which can allow fire to slowly grow undetected.'

To create a fire moat, you'll want to look for materials that complement the landscaping in your yard. Once you've settled on a type of stone, create a perimeter that reaches about five feet from your home. Experts say that maintenance is key: make sure to keep the moat clear of leaves and debris, as these can still be ignited by fallen embers.

'Use rock, pavers or some other non-combustible material to cover the ground,' says Ivan. 'You can have short, herbaceous plants that are well-irrigated (like succulents, cacti, or yuccas) but nothing very fragrant, which is a proxy for plants that like to burn. Wood fences will also catch fire when debris and embers are blown against them, so it's wise to remove and replace fence panels within 6-10 feet of a home with masonry or metal.'

While a ring of gravel or stone might not sound like the most picture-perfect backyard idea, fire moats are, in fact, an easy way to fire-proof your existing landscaping. Rather than relying on costly synthetic materials or bulky fire protection kits, a fire moat is a more natural form of fire defence.

'Gravel can also be used in combination with walkways, driveways, or landscaping stones,' says Cameron. 'Not only will it look nice but it should require less upkeep.'

Above all, a fire moat can act as the last line of defence against flames and embers.

'By creating a non-combustible fire moat, you can greatly increase a home’s chances of standing on its own and preventing the types of urban conflagrations we most recently saw in the LA Fires in January 2025,' says Ivan.

What to Shop

Adds visual interest

Earthy Mixed Gravel

Gravel isn't just decorative – it's also a crucial non-combustible material. Mixed gravel like this can fit seamlessly into a variety of landscaping schemes.

Simple addition

Extra Small Light Gray Gravel

If you're after a more uniform look, classic gray gravel is a great option. Choose smaller pieces for a traditional, understated backyard.

Neutral hue

White Outdoor Decorative Gravel

White stones are often used in contemporary landscaping design to create a sleek, airy feel. This option from Walmart is impressively affordable.

Robust alternative

Fire Resistant Safety Netting

If you don't have the means to change up your landscaping, fire-resistant netting is a reliable way to protect your yard and shield your home from flames.

Essential buy

Emergency Fire Blankets, Set of 4

It's always wise to have a few fire blankets on hand, even if you aren't gearing up for a wildfire. These are available in a handy pack of four.

Handy & compact

Travel Ready Portable Emergency First Aid Kit

Another important investment? A first aid kit, of course. This one offers 80 wound care supplies including sterile dressings and bandages.

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We Asked 3 Landscape Designers How They Prep Their Gardens in Late December – Here’s What They Always Do For a Stress-Free Yard in 2026

Ellen Wells — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 08:30:00 +0000

When the garden goes quiet in December, the pros get busy. For experienced designers and landscapers, winter is far from downtime. It is a purposefully strategic pivot point. This time of year helps both professionals and the home gardener with a smooth the entry into next spring and give themselves a boost toward another successful season of growth.

Whether it’s structural pruning and drainage fixes or critter protection and strategic design planning, professionals use December to set up a thriving garden for the year ahead. Harsh winter weather gives them time for learning, assessing and planning indoors. A fair-weather day allows for seeing the gardens and landscape in its bare-bones glory, a great time to trim, remove and clean.

We spoke with three landscape experts about what they do during December and beyond to prepare for a glorious new growing season next year. Take their advice and apply what you can to your own landscape. Getting ready now may even put you that much closer to all those backyard ideas you’ll dream up while you’re on your winter gardening sabbatical.

Winter is Setup Time

(Image credit: Getty/eyecrave productions)

For Tim Johnson, President of Tim John Landscaping in Statesville, North Carolina, December is all about getting ahead.

As he puts it, ‘We take the winter time to set up for spring success, getting the leaf clean-up done, getting the mulching done, making sure the beds are clean ahead of time and making sure the edges are clean,’ Tim says.

He adds that doing these tasks in December and even January if the weather allows helps theme be prepared for the next season.

‘When the spring rush gets here, we won’t be behind the eight ball.' He also uses winter to make thoughtful decisions about leaf management. In manicured shrub borders, for example, he and his team will remove all the leaves out of the under the shrubs and ground cover.

But in other garden beds, it’s the opposite. ‘When we're talking about more perennial-type natural garden areas, then we're loading those leaves up in there to provide insulation where maybe we can’t place mulch.’

Winter Plant Care

(Image credit: Getty Images/Rossella De Berti)

Winter is also when Johnson applies protective treatments. ‘We don't believe in having a lot of fertilization in the shrub beds during the winter when we're getting frosts and freezes,’ he says.

His team will apply some horticultural oils and a bio-stimulant to make sure that the plants are happy and healthy. ‘Because growth is a year-round thing, it doesn't take off in the wintertime,’ Johnson says.

He explains that horticultural oil has a dual purpose in the landscape. It’s often used for controlling insects, and in the winter it has another purpose: ‘It's mainly for that moisture management in the leaves and the protection there in the leaves.’ Amazon carries the all seasons horticultural & dormant spray oil from Bonide.

December is also prime time for structural pruning. Johnson calls it ‘a critically important time to structurally prune ornamental trees,’ he says. It helps to get a little bit more air through the canopy and cuts out crossing branches.

‘It’s a great time when you can actually see in through the trees and shrubs as they are totally dormant.’

Prime Design Time

(Image credit: Tom Massey)

Landscape designer Dave Marciniak of Revolutionary Gardens in Culpeper, Virginia, uses December to encourage clients to think about garden and landscape planning before the spring chaos hits.

‘This is a great time of year for working with a landscape designer on a design so they can hit the ground running in the springtime before everybody gets booked up.’

Dormancy also makes December an ideal month to move woody plants. ‘If there are deciduous trees or shrubs that homeowners want to move, this is a good time of year for it, when they're in dormancy,’ Marciniak says.

However, there’s some items he doesn’t suggest moving at this time; ‘I would not do broadleaf evergreens after about Halloween,’ he says, ‘as they desiccate then die over winter, no matter what you do.’

Garden drainage issues, too, are easier to diagnose in winter. ‘This time of year, you can see clearly where your water is sitting,’ Marciniak says. The bare-bones landscape helps him adapt the drainage to move the water where you need to. ‘It’s the perfect time to identify those problem areas.’

Winter’s leafless landscape makes it the best time to add lighting, Marciniak adds. ‘There's a whole lot less foliage,’ he says, ‘and as we’re running wires and setting fixtures and such, it's a whole lot easier when everything's not fully leafed out.’ You can find lighting fixtures that make your landscape shine at Amazon.

Protecting and Planning

(Image credit: Jacky Parker Photography / Moment / Getty Images)

In Wisconsin, gardener and creator Erin Schanen (aka The Impatient Gardener) approaches winter prep differently; less fall cleanup, more protection, and a lot of design pondering and plotting.

Schanen has reduced her fall clean-up to almost nothing: ‘I do less and less of that every year,’ she admits. Not only does it leave seedheads and stems standing through winter for wildlife, but also, she adds, ‘It gives me something to look at in winter.’ And surprisingly, it makes spring cleanup that much easier: ‘You can basically break off most of the stems, and it’s all much lighter material.’

Protection from winter-hungry animals such as rabbits and deer is one of her top priorities in December. ‘Winter protection up here in Wisconsin is a really big thing, with protection from critters being the bigger factor,’ Schanen says. That means caging young trees and applying repellents. You can find deer and rabbit repellent at Walmart.

Cold protection is the next necessary protection. Schanen does this by piling leaves over tender shrubs: ‘I build a cage around the plant and then stuff it full of leaves,’ she explains. Also, any plant that is borderline for her USDA Zone gets extra insulation.

Even in freezing climates, winter watering matters. 'On those days when it’s nice enough, I will get some watering cans out and water the newer and particularly water-sensitive evergreens, because they don’t want to dehydrate.’ She also waters shrubs overwintering in her garage ‘about once a month, just so that they don’t fully dry out.’

When the hands-on tasks are done, she shifts her attention to analysis and design. ‘There’s no better time to analyze the structure in a garden than winter,” Schanen says. ‘The break does allow us time and space to be a little bit more critical about what our own gardens look like.’

And that’s how January has become one of her most creative seasons: 'I’m often redesigning things, coming up with the plant palette; it’s a joy because it keeps my fingers in gardening.’ The other perk is that because she has spent the time designing, ‘I can get those plant orders in early, and I can go straight into the season, ready to roll.”

Schanen uses winter as a time to refill her creative well by visiting other gardens, especially in warmer climates. With her own garden dormant under snow, she travels to places like Florida and the Naples Botanical Garden to observe bold plant combinations, textures and design ideas she can reinterpret at home. These off-season visits help her ‘refill [her] inspiration cup and think about the bigger design picture rather than specific plants.

FAQs

Is December a good time to evaluate a garden?

Yes. Homeowners can use bare-bones views to identify gaps in the landscape, assess sight lines, check plant spacing, and note areas that need structural elements like evergreens or large containers.

Can I plant trees and shrubs in December?

Many pros continue installations well into December, especially woody plants, if the ground is not frozen. Trees and shrubs planted while dormant often establish better root systems, and landscapers appreciate the lighter schedules and cooler working conditions.

December is a powerful month of preparation – and not just for the professionals. It’s less about maintenance and more about positioning the garden for an easy rollout for a beautiful, low-stress spring.

Winter work pays dividends all year long. And your particular payoff may include a trip to a warmer climate – perhaps Rio De Janeiro garden tour? – for some much-needed garden inspiration.

Meet the experts

5 Uplifting Landscape Design Trends Set to Define 2026 – and Why Designers Say They’re Here to Stay

Tenielle Jordison — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 02:30:00 +0000

With 2025 coming to a close, I've been thinking about how I want to shake up my garden next year. More specifically, I've been searching for fresh inspiration around landscaping – the framework and layout of the yard. And there are plenty of promising 2026 landscape design trends on the horizon.

It can feel overwhelming to sift through the endless garden ideas out there and it can be even harder to know which to invest time and money into. That's why I turned to the help of landscape and garden designers to find out which ideas they expect to see everywhere next year. Their answer? Longevity, precision, and sustainability will prevail over short-term, immediate impact.

From foundational planting that provides year-round interest to clever ways to turn your outdoor space into an extension of the home, the designers share their top five 2026 landscape design trends right here.

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

5 uplifting landscape trends for 2026

Landscape design encompasses everything from hardscaping, to planting, and even seating. It's essentially the way in which a yard is laid out and designed to bring together aesthetics and functionality.

The below five 2026 landscaping trends provide plenty of inspiration to give your yard a refresh in the new year:

1. Expressive entrances

(Image credit: Polly Eltes)

According to garden designer Laura Janney, CEO of The Inspired Garden Masterclass, 2026 is the year for gardeners to give more attention to the front yard landscape.

'Homeowners are really upping their game of transforming the front entranceway as an extension of their interior,' she says.

'While container gardens set the stage, it’s the addition of seating, decorative sculptures, and other elements that create a standout moment,' she explains.

There are lots of ways to put a personal touch on front porch ideas, from artistic accents, like this abstract garden sculpture from Wayfair, to outdoor seating that allows you to grab a moment of calm with your morning coffee.

'My tip is to not overdo it and use organic materials, like wooden planters, mixed in with living plants and flowers,' Laura says.

2. Quiet pockets to escape to

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

Laura shares another trend she expects to see more of next year relates to how we use our backyards.

'With the continuous chaos in the world, homeowners are wanting to create sacred spaces to escape and connect with nature,' she says

'It's about creating a retreat surrounded by lush plantings, a seating area, and elements to awake all of the senses,' Laura adds.

Even if you only have a balcony space, there are lots of ways to create an urban oasis. For example, you can fill a raised garden bed (like this from Amazon) with trees and lush foliage of woodland plants to screen an urban backdrop.

Landscaping with ornamental grasses can also work well for creating natural boundaries and different garden zones, as well as structures like this wooden trellis from Amazon.

3. Biophilic features

(Image credit: Clive Nichols via Getty Images)

This 2026 landscape trend is all to do with designing a space full of natural elements for individuals to connect with and reap wellbeing benefits from.

'Biophilic design is not a new concept. It's rapidly growing in popularity as homeowners care more about holistic, eco-friendly design, and lifestyle choices,' explains landscaping expert Joe Raboine.

'When you can really use your senses to taste, smell and hear the design choices, you can have a much larger impact. Edible landscapes, raised garden beds, water features, and unique textures are all different ways this can be achieved,' he says.

As Joe notes, there are plenty of ways to incorporate eco-friendly garden ideas in your yard's landscape for a biophilic design. This includes the idea of foodscaping and growing plants for both ornamental and edible value.

4. Smart garden design

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

AI in gardening is still very much a growing idea, as gardeners navigate the increasing technology available to them.

There are plenty of sustainability opportunities within this, with many advancements making it more convenient to make greener choices in the yard.

For example, smart irrigation systems (from Amazon) can help reduce water waste in your yard.

Gardening apps are also becoming increasingly popular, offering smart garden assistants that can provide advice personalized to your yard and plants.

These tools all tie in with precision gardening, a trend named in the Garden Media Group's 2026 Trends Report.

It's the idea of making informed decisions in the yard for long-lasting results, for example by examining your soil type (with this soil kit from Amazon) and choosing plants that will thrive in it for many years.

5. Foundational planting for year-round interest

(Image credit: katewarn images / Alamy Stock Photo)

Another key 2026 landscape trend is establishing foundational planting that you can rely on for interest through all of the seasons, notes Catherine Trudeau from The Outside Design Studio.

'With more homeowners seeking plantings that deliver dramatic color, we prefer a long-view approach of selecting varieties that look beautiful throughout the year and truly shine as the seasons shift,' she says.

These are plants that create beautiful seasonal transitions and refresh your yard's landscape throughout the year.

'Some of my top picks include dogwood trees, known for their deep-red and purple tones, hydrangeas which bloom brightly in the summer and move to soft, dusty-rose hues in the fall, and service berries which offer a vibrant color,' Catherine says.

Mixing together evergreen trees and deciduous trees for fall color is another way to achieve this, creating a beautiful backdrop of greens and oranges for your yard as the seasons change.

FAQs

Which landscape trend is out for 2026?

Gardeners are becoming more concerned with longevity and sustainability, meaning short-term aesthetics are out for 2026. Rather than choosing plants that will only thrive in your yard for one season, choose hardy, native plants that establish a more permanent landscape to enjoy for years to come.

Even if you have an unusual outdoor space to work with, like an awkward-shaped garden or triangular shaped garden, there are plenty of ways to incorporate these landscape design trends. Investing in some high-quality garden accents can be a good starting point:

Concrete Planter

This concrete planter can be used indoors and outdoors. It measures 13.4"D and it has a drainage hole to aid moisture management.

Metal Arbor

This metal arbor is perfect for supporting climbing plants and creating entryways in the yard. It measures 7'8"Hx4'5"W.

Raised Garden Bed with Trellis

This wooden trellis is a beautiful space-saving solution, offering a raised garden bed space and a trellis for climbing plants.

Coastal Resilience is the Next Big Luxury Landscape Trend – Here's How Designers Are Responding for 2026

Edward Bowring — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 03:00:00 +0000

Many of us dream of living by the ocean, but with climate change and rising sea temperatures, storms and hurricanes are seemingly becoming more frequent and powerful. What does that mean for gardeners who live on the coast?

Homeowners with coastal gardens are beginning to look more at coastal resilience landscaping and making their yards not just beautiful, but capable of tolerating the worst the weather can throw at them.

Read on to find out how landscape designers are blending functional resilience and luxury coastal garden ideas that can thrive in the face of the coastal challenges of salt spray, storm surges and strong winds.

What is coastal resilience landscaping

(Image credit: Adrian Anz, Courtesy Coldwell Banker via toptenrealestatedeals.com)

The beach or seaside often conjures up happy memories of past vacations or provides a beautiful place to escape or relax, but it can also be a harsh environment and a place of destruction. As a result, gardeners are turning towards coastal resilience landscaping.

This, in short, is the practice of designing and creating gardens and outdoor spaces that can endure the pressures that come with proximity to the ocean, such as salt or hurricane-force winds.

Working with the environment rather than against it, coastal resilience landscaping often looks towards nature-based solutions, such as utilising hardy, native plants and incorporating natural features like dunes, alongside permeable landscaping materials.

When asked what coastal resilience landscaping is and why it is becoming more important, James Grew, owner of the Seacoast Gardener, based in North Hampton, New Hampshire, stated, ‘for us, coastal resilience landscaping is about creating gardens that can recover from salt spray, storm surge, and heavy coastal weather – not just withstand them.

'Along the New Hampshire and southern Maine coast, we care for many oceanfront properties, and last winter we saw first-hand how extreme storms are reshaping the landscape. One nor’easter filled several of our clients’ front yards with ocean water, literally tons of ocean sand and thousands of beach stones. It was a clear reminder that coastal gardens have to be designed with adaptation in mind.’

Planting for coastal resilience landscaping

(Image credit: Geoff Smith / Alamy Stock Photo)

The often-quoted term ‘right plant, right place’ was popularized by the renowned English gardener Beth Chatto in the 1960s and highlights the importance of considering a plant’s ideal growing conditions when choosing what to plant where.

This is especially true for coastal sites, where plants need to be tough and able to thrive in the extremes of salt spray, strong gales, poor or non-existent soil and often sloping surfaces.

Furthermore, the local climatic conditions will have a bearing on plant choice as the zone 10-11 USDA hardiness rating of Captiva and Sanibel, Florida, is a world away from the New Hampshire zone 6 coastline.

That being said, robust plants such as ornamental grasses and sea hollies (Eryngiums), such as Blue Glitter Sea Holly available from Nature Hills, are widely used due to their wind and salt tolerance.

Florida-based Kiamesha Wray, the founder and owner of Living Spaces Gardening and Living Restorations, says that ‘Opting for a living shoreline rather than a seawall, or cluster planting your trees, are some impactful decisions you can make that will have a positive impact on how a site will fare in a severe weather event’ and that ‘many of the species we use are adapted to this because they already thrive in environments where hurricanes are sometimes a yearly event.’

This is because ‘living shorelines are better able to stabilize erosion and absorb storm surge and trees that are planted with other trees can support each other during high winds.’

On the North Atlantic Seaboard, James recommends utilising ‘salt-tolerant natives and deep-rooted grasses that hold soil and rebound after flooding. Plants like beach plum (Prunus maritima), inkberry holly (Ilex glabra), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), and little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) do especially well.

'We also use shrubs such as rugosa rose and bayberry for wind and salt protection, and sweet pepperbush or red osier dogwood for wetter areas that occasionally flood.’

As recommended by James and widely used in other garden design styles, including prairie minimalism and drought-tolerant schemes, little bluestem is a hardy perennial grass that remains compact with a final height of 2-3 feet. Tough and adaptable, it will cope with zone 3 and above and very poor soils. You can purchase Little Bluestem Grass from Nature Hills.

Hardscaping materials for coastal resilience landscaping

(Image credit: Annette Lepple/Alamy Stock Photo)

Hardscaping materials are the inanimate elements that provide a function in your garden or yard, such as decking, paving, stone and gravel, while still contributing to the overall design. In the light of climate change, homeowners are increasingly turning towards sustainable landscaping materials where possible, but when it comes to coastal resilience landscaping and luxury designs, what should be used and where is especially important.

Weather-resistant and salt-tolerant materials and those that are not prone to rotting are an obvious choice, but permeability (materials that allow water to pass through rather than retaining it) is another key factor, as this can help avoid runoff and localized flooding.

James states, ‘Shell driveways, gravel paths, and stone terraces allow water to percolate naturally, while rain gardens and native buffers slow runoff and protect the shoreline. The goal is to let the land breathe – absorbing, filtering, and recovering – instead of fighting the water.’

Gravel and permeable paving with drainage channels are often stipulated even in inland designs and commonly used where garden drainage is important, as they let water seep back into the ground naturally.

Large boulders can also be used to define areas and provide natural structure in coastal gardens and help dissipate the force of powerful storm surges.

Dunescaping

(Image credit: Living Spaces Gardening/Kiamesha Wray)

For properties and backyards that back onto the beach, dunescaping and dune restoration are becoming increasingly popular due to their attractive, protective and ecological benefits. ‘Dune systems not only absorb storm surge energy but are critical habitat for supporting a wide variety of life’ says Kiamesha.

Primarily using sand and gravel rather than soil means plant choice is limited and specimen selection focuses on those that are salt-tolerant coastal natives that will thrive in free-draining, low-nutrient, and wind-swept conditions. When it comes to dune restoration, Kiamesha recommends the ‘trifecta of sea oats, bitter panicum, and beach elder and that morning glory and railroad vine are excellent because of their rapid sprawling growth pattern.'

She goes on to report that ‘studies support bitter panicum in particular as a lead succession species which will support more rapid vegetation regeneration, because the root systems established aid other species to gain a foothold.’

A very salt-tolerant and coastal native of the Americas is sea oats, Uniola paniculata. This spreads through underground rhizomes, which, along with their deep root systems, help stabilize the sand and prevent erosion as well as provide food and habitat for wildlife. Growing from 3-6 feet tall, its oat-like seed heads tower above the foliage on arching stems.

A climbing plant that thrives on neglect, morning glories (Ipomoea) can cover an area in a surprisingly short period of time. The white-flowering beach morning glory (Ipomoea imperati) is a trailing evergreen and a natural dune stabilizer, but these climbers are not just limited to coastal areas.

The Mexican morning glory, or Ipomoea tricolor, prized for its vibrant blue trumpet-shaped blooms, can grow to 10 feet tall and bring a trellis or wall to life over the summer months. Typically grown as an annual in zones 3 and above, it can also be grown as a perennial in zone 10-11. You can purchase Heavenly Blue Morning Glory Seeds from True Leaf Market.

Coastal gardens often evoke a relaxed vacation feeling. But you don’t have to live by the sea to create a tranquil and calm garden that will help you slow down and take time for yourself. These top 10 coastal plants will be equally at home away from the coast as long as you can give them a well-drained soil and a sunny spot.

Have You Heard of Prairie Minimalism? Discover how Midwestern Gardens Are Leading the Next Wave of Landscape Design

Edward Bowring — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Loved for its relaxed, informal and romantic style, prairie planting seeks to replicate the American prairies of the Midwest. Using native species and minimal human input, prairie gardens continue to gain interest as gardeners turn their thoughts towards more sustainable methods.

Most effective on a larger scale, prairie planting is based on the vast open spaces of the natural prairies. But it can also be used in a more modern and minimalist way, which is easier to incorporate on a domestic level.

Read on to discover how the concept of prairie minimalism puts a contemporary twist on this style, and how to get the look in your backyard.

(Image credit: Delphine Adburgham/Alamy Stock Photo)

What is prairie minimalism?

There is no denying that large-scale prairie planting can look dramatic over the winter months when grasses and seed heads are highlighted by the low sun and morning frost. But it is late summer and early fall when a prairie garden really comes into its own.

Based upon a wide variety of native grasses and late-blooming perennials, prairie planting forms a stunning tapestry with beautiful drifts of color and texture.

On a smaller scale, such as an urban garden border, a diverse range of grasses and herbaceous perennials can look overcrowded and jumbled, so how can you use native prairie plants but still achieve clean lines and a modern feel?

One answer is to use a limited number of species and a constrained color palette in a simplified pattern.

A sustainable approach

(Image credit: Julie Huser/Alamy Stock Photo)

Prairie planting and prairie minimalism do not just look visually attractive but can offer sustainable benefits to the world around us. From an environmental approach, prairie minimalism uses native plant species that, once established, are drought-tolerant and need considerably less irrigation than a traditional lawn or border.

Consisting of plants with varying depths of root systems, prairie planting can help prevent soil erosion as the deep roots, especially, help stabilize the soil.

Furthermore, by using native plants suitable for the local conditions, the need for any fertilizers and other chemicals is greatly reduced.

When it comes to the ecological benefits of prairie planting, the diversity of the plants used can help attract wildlife, such as birds, pollinators and other beneficial insects, to your garden.

The perennial flowers, or forbs, provide an important source of nectar for bees and butterflies and come winter, the seed heads will help feed the birds and plant stems provide shelter for insects.

An additional benefit for time-poor gardeners is that this style of planting is considerably low-maintenance. With time saved watering, feeding, weeding and deadheading, there is more time to enjoy the garden and benefit from it therapeutically.

How to achieve a prairie minimalism style in your yard

(Image credit: Alamy/Botanic World)

In contrast to the multitude of plant species found in a natural prairie, the key to achieving a more modern and minimalist style is restraint.

When asked how modern minimalist prairie planting differs from traditional prairie style planting, author and specialist in natural landscape design Benjamin Vogt responded, ‘Far less species diversity. In a wild meadow or prairie, there will be dozens upon dozens of species in a square meter. Minimalism, by its very definition, attempts to distil the echo to its most emblematic core. That might be one grass species or just a few.’

For a modern minimalist design, gardeners often look towards more structure and clean lines. To help achieve this, Benjamin suggests, ‘keeping the grass to one unifying species (likely a groundcover or matrix species that's shorter) and then having only 1-3 forb species in bloom at one time.

'Those forb species may also be highly architectural in their structure, or have a mounding, topiary-like shape to them, such as Baptisia minor and Smyphyotrichum oblongifolium.'

Commonly known as dwarf false indigo, Baptisia australis var. minor is a herbaceous perennial that is native to the North American Prairies with an upright habit. Providing a long season of interest, Baptisia minor produces white flower buds that develop into lilac-indigo flowers that are adored by pollinators.

Furthermore, if not deadheaded, black seed pods appear and stand over winter, extending its appeal. Suitable for growing in zones 3 to 8, you can purchase Hazzard's Baptisia Australis Minor seeds from Amazon.

Plants for the prairie minimalism look

(Image credit: Getty Images/Alex Manders )

Prairie planting comprises a mixture of grasses and flowering perennials and the ratio of these plants can differ depending on the desired effect.

For example, a natural prairie may consist of roughly 75% grasses and 25% flowers, but a specifically designed small modern prairie garden may lean towards more color and wildlife attraction and a ratio closer to half and half.

Native perennials commonly used in modern prairie planting include the durable and heat-tolerant black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia). Producing golden-yellow petals surrounding a deep brown centre, Rudbeckia hirta ''Indian Summer' flowers from July into the fall and tolerates zone 5 and above. You can purchase Indian Summer Black - Eyed Susan from Nature Hills.

Another native perennial often specified in prairie designs is the purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea). Producing purple petals that droop away from its brown cone, this plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds and is easy to care for. Suitable for growing in zones 3 to 8, you can purchase NatureZ Edge Purple Coneflower Seeds from Amazon.

The drought-tolerant common yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is another native option. Being pollinator-friendly, it is known to be a magnet for all sort of bees, butterflies and hoverflies and is well suited to zone 4 and above. Outsidepride Achillea Millefolium Wild White Yarrow Seeds are available from Amazon.

For grasses, bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and dropseed (Sporobolus) are favourable due to their colors, textures and ability to provide a dense matrix and movement.

Widely used for prairie and native planting schemes, little bluestem is a hardy perennial grass with blue-silver foliage that takes on an autumnal-brown hue and produces white fluffy seedheads in the fall.

It remains compact with a final height of 2-3 feet and will cope with zone 3 and above. You can purchase Little Bluestem Grass from Nature Hills.

For smaller spaces and a more structured feel with clean lines, Neil Diboll, author and President of Prairie Nursery in Westfield, Wisconsin, suggests, ‘using the short grasses, especially Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) and Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) in monocultures, blended with wildflowers amongst them.’

Neil goes on to say that, ‘a particularly effective approach is to use Prairie Dropseed as a transitional border between a formal lawn and the “wilder” prairie garden. These grasses can also be planted in winding “rivers” of monocultures side by side, punctuated with taller individual specimen plants (Baptisias, Silphiums, etc.) and groups of 5-7 or more showy flowers, as appropriate for the species.'

For compact planting areas, he also suggests ‘focusing on specific plant foliage and flower color combinations to achieve maximum interest in a small space.’ When it comes to planting against a boundary, Neil recommends that ‘tall plants can have a role in small spaces, especially in “native border gardens” against walls, and that big plants can be utilised in a backyard corner to achieve an exclamation point using a very few individual plants such as Eupatoriums, Silphiums and Vernonias.'

With climate change and global temperatures rising, gardeners are looking for more ways to make their gardens more sustainable. One such way is to reduce the size of your lawn or to create a meadowscape instead.

Defined simply as growing a variety of native wildflowers and grass species, after the initial investment, you can look forward to reduced watering and mowing and enjoy observing all manner of wildlife instead.

Corridor Gardens are the Ecological Landscape Trend Connecting our Backyards to the Wild in 2026

Edward Bowring — Sat, 08 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Many of us enjoy watching the wildlife in our backyards and as gardeners, we know that birds, bees and other small creatures don’t just provide a beneficial source of natural pest control but can also help contribute to diverse and thriving ecosystems.

Unfortunately, one of the main threats to wildlife today is habitat loss and with widespread ongoing development and the fragmentation of natural habitats, our private gardens are becoming more vital in providing nature-supporting habitats and links to larger wild areas.

Read on to discover how you can use wildlife garden ideas to turn your backyard or balcony into an on-trend ecological corridor garden that will provide all manner of wildlife with food, water and shelter for their onward journey.

(Image credit: Tim Graham / Alamy Stock Photo)

How to connect your garden with other wildlife areas

In a progressively urbanized world, wild areas are being broken up and natural wildlife sites are becoming more fragmented, leading to populations of isolated species.

On a large scale, wildlife or green corridors as they are also known, provide a safe bridge, linking key wildlife habitats, such as the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative.

However, on a smaller scale, your private garden can be a stepping stone for birds, pollinators and other small mammals to refuel and rest between larger natural areas.

We will show you how implementing even small measures can help ensure safe passage for wildlife and support them on their travels.

Relax on garden maintenance

(Image credit: lavendertime via Getty Images)

One of the first steps to making a corridor garden and one that will make time-poor gardeners happy to hear, is to actually do less.

To start with, you can support no-mow May and put the lawnmower away and not bring it back out until early June, or only mow the lawn when you really need to. By allowing the grass to grow longer, you will also be letting any wild flowers in the grass appear, which bees and butterflies will feast upon.

However, if you are unable to leave all of your lawn to grow taller over the summer months, you don’t need to worry, as even a small patch left unmown can have a surprising effect.

As an experiment in one of the gardens I previously managed, we left a small circle in the middle of a lawn to its own devices and in a matter of weeks, pollinators were feeding off the red and white clover, daisies and dandelions.

Another task to leave on the to-do list is the pre-winter tidy up, or as some call it, putting the garden to bed. This is because seed heads from plants such as coneflowers (Echinacea), black eyed-susan (Rudbeckia) and sunflowers (Helianthus) are a great source of nourishment for small birds over the colder months and especially when the ground is frozen.

Any upright dead stems, especially hollow ones, can also be left until spring, as insects may overwinter inside them.

Additionally, when the leaves begin to drop, you do not have to pick them all up. It is wise to collect any fallen leaves on the lawn as a thick layer will prevent any air and light from reaching the blades, resulting in weakened growth and encouraging moss.

But for those that fall on the borders, you can leave them where they are as they can provide shelter for small animals, including frogs and toads and will finally rot down and boost the soil.

However, for those with limited outside space or no border to leave untouched over the winter, you can build a bug hotel or purchase one such as this insect hotel available from Amazon to provide a safe habitat for any passing insects.

As well as mowing less and putting off a winter tidy-up until spring, you can also designate a special area of your garden to be left to its own devices. Although potentially unsightly and perhaps best created out of sight, leaving a patch of your yard completely uncultivated and free from any chemicals or fertilizers can create a safe space for any passing wildlife to forage or inhabit undisturbed.

Wildlife-friendly fencing

(Image credit: Miriam Heppell / Alamy Stock Photo)

When it comes to yard boundaries, tall closed fencing is commonly used for privacy and security reasons, especially in urban areas. Even though closed fencing and solid gates help keep pets and children safe and contained, they unfortunately can also keep out any passing wildlife.

Instead of impassable fencing, other nature-friendly barriers suitable for corridor gardens include hedgerows, living willow hedges, or types of open fencing. Wooden lattice fencing with sizeable openings should be considered as it can still keep pets and children contained, but also allow for frogs and toads to pass through.

Better still and if your neighbor agrees, why not cut a small hole in your shared fence to encourage safe passage between your gardens?

In rented accommodation, the above options may not be possible, but you can still encourage wildlife to use the garden as a corridor to other natural areas. For example, if you have a closed board fence, you could install some vine eyes, such as these YGAOHF 2.5 Inches Eye Hooks Screw available from Amazon and training wires and grow a coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) to attract hummingbirds, or a passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) to help feed passing bees and butterflies.

Plant native hedgerows

(Image credit: Rolf Nussbaumer Photography / Alamy)

When planning a new hedge or replacing an old one, you might be amazed at the choice of plants on offer. From evergreen to deciduous, for flowers or for berries, the selection is vast. Nevertheless, a hedge consisting of mixed native species is a great way to support wildlife and make your yard into a corridor garden.

Depending on the aspect, exposure, hardiness zone and soil of your garden, native hedging plants could include American Hazelnut (Corylus americana), Common Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea) and Common Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius).

By planting a mixture of species, rather than just one, you can support a more diverse range of wildlife as well as provide interest in the garden at different times throughout the year.

Furthermore, hedgerows don’t just support small birds and insects, as they also provide a hunting site for bats and act as landmarks for them to follow between nesting and foraging sites.

However, before planting, it is worth checking with your state extension horticultural department, as some shrubs, such as Common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) are considered invasive as they can outcompete native species and cause more harm than good to local ecosystems.

Native hedgerow mixes can often be mainly deciduous, so you may want to add an evergreen specimen to provide cover for the winter months. One such option, and one that will also provide food and shelter for any visiting wildlife, is ivy (Hedera helix).

Perhaps one of the best evergreen climbers, ivy is hardy and grows well in zone 4 and above. That being said, it is known to be vigorous and will require regular pruning to keep it in check. You can purchase English Ivy from Nature Hills.

Pollinator waystations are key

(Image credit: Jennifer Tepp/Alamy Stock Photo)

Another way of encouraging your front or back yard to be used as a corridor garden is to include a pollinator waystation.

Perhaps best known for supporting monarch butterflies on their migration from the United States and Canada to Mexico, pollinator waystations provide host plants for laying eggs and nectar to sustain them on their long journey.

To provide a pollinator waystation in your corridor garden, you can grow a diverse range of nectar-rich flowering plants and in the case of monarch butterflies, native milkweed species. Some of the best pollinator-friendly plants include verbena, bee balm (Monarda) and Yarrow (Achillea) as they are adored by bees, butterflies and other insects.

One of my favorite plants to support pollinators and one that I have planted and grown in many of the gardens I have managed over my horticultural career is Verbena bonariensis.

Growing up to 6 feet tall, this tall verbena produces small clusters of tiny purple flowers that, when in bloom, are adored by bees and butterflies. Best grown in zone 7 and above in full sun and on a free-draining soil, you can purchase Verbena bonariensis seeds from Burpee.

Build wildlife ponds

(Image credit: coldsnowstorm / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

Wildlife also need access to water for drinking, breeding and for some species, as a habitat. Even a small wildlife pond can support a variety of amphibians, birds and bats and insects such as dragonflies.

You can construct a pond to any shape and size using a flexible rubber liner or you can choose a pre-molded liner such as this Algreen Rigid Preformed Plastic Pond Liner available from Amazon.

However, if sinking a pond into the ground is not an option, a plastic tub or half barrel placed on a balcony or patio with varying depths provided by rocks or stones, along with some aquatic plants, will encourage wildlife to visit.

When talking about supporting wildlife, perhaps one of the first things that comes to mind is feeding the birds. But what is the best way to feed them and which foods should you provide?

Our in-depth feature on how to feed garden birds will take you through all you need to know, from where to position feeds to how to prevent squirrels from stealing the food you put out.

Landscape Designers Reveal 4 Key Ways They Prep Their Gardens In October – You Won't Want To Skip These Tasks

Holly Crossley — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

We're midway through the fall season. While our gardens can look fantastic at this time of year, filled with fiery-hued foliage and the last of the summer flowers, there is no denying that winter is on its way. And, in terms of prepping for colder temps and the new year, there is plenty to be getting on with.

A fall gardening checklist is a great way to get organized. And to help you put yours together, I asked landscape designers about the most important October tasks they always tick off in their own outdoor spaces.

Below, they share their thoughts, alongside practical advice on carrying out the jobs successfully. From mulching your soil to dividing overgrown perennials, these are the tasks to make a priority – and you'll find a few tips on what to avoid doing, too.

1, Prepping soil by mulching

(Image credit: brusinski / E+ / Getty Images)

Laura Janney, CEO of The Inspired Garden Masterclass, starts off by stressing the importance of mulching, explaining how it helps protect the roots of perennials and shrubs in the winter. And, as a bonus, it helps keep weeds at bay while adding aesthetic appeal.

She uses a natural, organic mulch, saying: 'It is more expensive but worth the investment. It doesn’t break down as easily and contains no dyes or chemicals.' She adds that mulch should be two to four inches deep.

Mintee Kalra, the founder of Peruse, also spends time feeding and preparing the soil in her garden this month.

'Even in a naturalistic garden, soil is the quiet engine of health,' she says. 'I layer compost or aged leaf mold across the base of the meadow – just enough to nourish without disturbing root systems. Think of it as a slow-release investment in next year's bloom sequence.'

'This is also the ideal time to top-dress around ligustrum hedges or boundary plantings, strengthening their root zones before the cooler months ahead,' she adds.

2. Dividing perennials

(Image credit: SondraP / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

'Fall is a great time to divide perennials that have gotten too big,' says Laura. 'It keeps the plants healthy and you get more plants!'

The easiest way to go about it is to dig up the plants completely. 'Shake off any extra soil and take off any dead parts,' Laura advises. Then, for larger plants, she recommends cutting them in half using a sharp spade. For smaller plants, she likes to use a hori hori knife.

Trim extra-long roots, then immediately replant the perennial and water well, she instructs. You'll find a list of seven popular plants to divide in October in our dedicated guide.

3. Cutting back certain plants

(Image credit: By Eve Livesey / Moment / Getty Images)

'October is the moment to edit and refresh a meadow planting,' says Mintee. 'In Los Angeles, the soil still carries warmth, but the air begins to cool – a natural cue to thin summer growth and make space for fall sowing.

'I cut back tired salvias and gaura, leaving the seed heads where they'll self-sow or feed birds,' she continues. 'Milkweed and red fescue can be trimmed lightly, never scalped, allowing the rhythm of the meadow to soften while the roots continue building strength underground. This edit preserves the architecture of the planting while restoring air and light for winter renewal.'

Don't have a meadow-style space? Many perennials still benefit from a prune this season. Laura says she likes to do this as it prevents diseases and fungus, and it also neatens up the garden. However, similarly to Mintee, she leaves perennials with seed pods, such as coneflowers, to feed wildlife – and they'll lend some winter interest, too.

We've rounded up a list of perennials to cut back in the fall, including hostas and asters, as well as perennials to leave. Be sure to use sharp and clean pruners to help keep your plants in top health.

4. Tending to trees

(Image credit: auimeesri / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

'After summer stress, trees benefit from a post-heat assessment,' says Mintee. 'I look for signs of sunscald, cracked bark, or weakened branches.

'Early fall pruning – selective and minimal – is restorative: removing deadwood, opening the canopy for air circulation, and balancing the weight before winter rains,' she continues.

'The goal isn't aesthetic perfection but long-term vitality.' When pruning trees in October, you're setting the structure for spring's canopy and protecting the understory plants below,' she adds.

If you don't feel confident carrying out the job yourself, look for a trained arborist to prune your trees for you – it's safer for both you and your trees.

FAQs

What should you avoid doing in the garden in the fall?

While there are a few key jobs to do this season, there are also some tasks to avoid. For instance, Laura warns against pruning shrubs, explaining that this can stress them out as they go dormant, as well as risk disease. 'The new way of thinking is to do pruning in late winter or early spring,' she says.

Likewise, steer clear of pruning certain hydrangeas now. If you prune 'old wood' hydrangeas, like big leaf varieties, you risk not getting blooms the following spring, Laura notes. And while technically you could prune 'new wood' hydrangeas, like the panicle ones, in the fall, she says most people wait for late winter or early spring as there's less risk of stressing the shrubs and them getting diseased. 'Plus, the dried blooms are beautiful in winter,' she adds.

Another outdoor activity to avoid is planting too close to the end of the season. 'Plants need time to establish their roots before going dormant and facing the harsh conditions of winter,' Laura says. 'I generally don't plant past mid-October for the best chance of success.'

Do you still need to weed and water plants in October?

In a word, yes. Laura notes how weeds keep going in the fall, and when they take hold, they compete with perennials for water and nutrients. 'Staying on top of weeding helps your perennials grow stronger and healthier without all that competition.'

And while sweltering summer temperatures may have passed, watering your plants is still important. 'Keeping plants well-watered helps protect them from the stress of a frost as well as ensuring well-established roots for the winter until they go dormant,' Laura says.

Looking for more garden jobs for this month? An array of flowers can be planted in October for next year's blooms, as can a few types of veggies if you love growing your own crops. And don't forget to plant your spring bulb display this season, too, whether you're scattering them through a lawn or growing a bulb lasagne in a pot.

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How to transform rooftops into wild garden escapes – a landscape design duo reveal the key to achieving a natural landscape in an urban space

Tenielle Jordison — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 16:00:00 +0000

As a keen indoor gardener, I'm loving the innovative urban gardening ideas that are coming out of 2025. With an increasing number of people sharing clever ways to grow in challenging gardening spaces, the possibilities for an urban garden now seem endless. Urban garden designers Bart Haverkamp and Pieter Croes say it's even possible to create a wild garden in these settings.

Their signature style of urban wild gardening creates the look of natural environments in settings otherwise made up of hard landscaping. The Belgium-based designers specialize in rooftop gardens in particular, but share their methods can be adopted to urban spaces of all forms – balconies, containers, and even window boxes.

The case studies in their upcoming book, Wild Harmony (available to pre-order on Amazon), showcase how they take a nature-deprived space and turn it into an urban oasis bursting with greenery, and it turns out there are a couple of tricks to achieve this. I spoke to Pieter to find out the secret to success in achieving a luscious, wild urban garden.

What is urban wild gardening?

(Image credit: Wild Harmony)

When it comes to wild gardening, you may instantly imagine a large garden that is left unmaintained. This is exactly what Bart Haverkamp and Pieter Croes say on wild gardening: to let go and allow nature to take the lead. But, they urge, you don't need an expansive amount of space to achieve this.

Of course, the limitation with working in an urban garden is that there may not be any nature to work with from the beginning. This is especially true in the hard landscapes of balcony gardens and rooftops.

Urban wild gardening often involves first bringing in plenty of plants to create a natural landscape, Pieter Croes tells me. For this reason, Pieter and Bart first talk to their clients to come up with a design, much the same as planning a garden intended to be more manicured.

'When we then finish making a roof garden, for example, it's just the beginning of the story,' Pieter says. 'It depends on the client and the people who take care of the garden as to what becomes of it.'

With an urban garden created and established, it can then be left to grow wild, if that's the desired look. But, it isn't as easy as choosing any plants for any space.

The key to creating a wild urban garden

(Image credit: Wild Harmony)

Whether you're creating an urban rooftop garden, transforming a balcony space, or are just working with a small container garden by your front door, Pieter says it's possible to achieve urban wild gardening in some form.

There's just one important rule to follow: plant for the space you're working with in order to allow for your plants to grow wild.

'Our wild planting style is defined by the choice of plants and the spaces we work in. For example, in roof gardens, you’re often limited. You need plants that can withstand a lot of sun and wind,' Pieter says.

Just like considering your US hardiness zone, it's important to choose plants for the urban spaces you're working with. In a rooftop, this may be sun-loving Mediterranean plants, while a sheltered courtyard garden or north-facing balcony might require some of the best shade plants.

You may also opt for wind-resistant shrubs and trees if your urban garden doesn't offer much protection.

It isn't just sun and wind exposure to think about, however: 'The soil type you use on a roof is more or less the same, volcanic soil, so you can’t always plant any plant.

'If you want rhododendrons, for example, you may need to add something to make your soil more acidic,' Pieter says.

Paying attention to soil health is key to successful urban wild gardening because without the right growing medium, your plants aren't going to be able to grow to the height and spread that gives them a wild look.

Volcanic soil (or volcanic rock dust soil amendment, available on Amazon) is often used on rooftops because it's lightweight, provides good drainage, and is rich in essential plant nutrients. This also makes it a great option for balcony gardens where weight limit might be something to consider.

As for container gardening more generally, it's key to ensure you use a well-draining potting mix (like this one from Amazon) to ensure there is moisture management in place, as potted plants are prone to oversaturation.

Let your planting grow as it pleases

(Image credit: Wild Harmony)

Having made careful plant selections for the environment you're working with, it's then all about allowing the plants to grow and gently take over your space.

This means minimal pruning, which Pieter advises to only do when absolutely necessary. Of course, avoid pruning mistakes like not cutting away diseased or damaged plant material (with sharp tools like these pruning shears from Amazon), but don't be tempted to keep your urban wild garden looking too neat.

'When you allow the plants to take over it becomes wild, which is nice in an urban, nature-suppressed area. When you talk about 'wild' it sounds a bit reckless, but the harmony is allowing the plants to grow together and unify in the space,' Pieter says.

Wild Harmony: Urban Gardens by Bart & Pieter

Wild Harmony highlights Bart and Pieterʼs signature style that lets nature take control of the space. It features over twenty of their recent projects, completed within the last decade, focusing primarily on urban gardens, rooftop spaces, terraces, and small plots highlighting what can be done with limited space and budget.

FAQs

How can I attract wildlife to my urban garden?

There are plenty of ways to attract wildlife to your urban garden. This includes opting for container plants for pollinators and putting up a bird feeder or bug hotel (like this one from Amazon). You can also provide shelter for a range of wildlife in the form of abundant planting and shrubs. Even if you've only got a small balcony space to work with, try leaving out a dish of water for birds to drink from and bathe in. Explore our guide to wildlife gardens for more inspiration.

Something Pieter points out he loves about creating urban wild spaces is how different each one turns out. This is because there are lots of ways to introduce naturalistic planting to your space and rewild your garden, so you can create an oasis bespoke to your taste.

10 fence line landscaping ideas – beautify your boundaries, with expert insights from landscape designers

Holly Crossley — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

For many of us, a garden fence is a necessity for defining boundaries, as well as enhancing the feeling of privacy and security in our homes. There are plenty of types to choose from – be it a classic wooden, weathering steel, or colorfully-painted design. However, the adjacent landscaping should also be considered to create a fully cohesive look.

Careful plant selection and other design elements can be utilized to complement your garden fence, and integrate it with your overall theme. The possibilities are (almost) endless, whether you want to soften your fence’s overall appearance, turn it into a focal point, or even make the space a wildlife-friendly haven.

Below, you’ll find 10 beautiful fence line landscaping ideas, from minimal, contemporary looks to flower-filled styles. Plus, landscape designers share plant recommendations for these spots.

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

10 fence line landscaping ideas that prove boundaries needn't be boring

Whether you prefer a modern design or a cottage-garden-style scheme, something in this mix is sure to inspire.

1. Build a raised bed alongside your fence

The 'Garden Studio Home' project, designed by Garden Studio Design (Image credit: Garden Studio Design / Photography: Riley Starr Photography)

Chris Fenmore, founder and principal designer for Garden Studio Design, explains that this fence line is not just a fence, but also a retaining wall.

‘We faced the concrete retaining wall with stain-grade vertical cedar planking and matched the stain of the back fence line to that of the house, so that the entire project has uniformity,’ she says. Note the copper cap used here, too, which adds another interesting detail.

The brick raised bed brings extra color, texture, and form to the space. ‘We lined the entire back fence line with a row of established canopy trees; these are field-grown olive trees,’ says Chris.

‘Not only did this give instant garden privacy, but it also provided an anchor and a backdrop to the entire backyard. Large and more established trees give a sense of scale as well as a sense of destination.’ Hanging lights and uplights are also included, she notes.

‘The plants at the base of the trees are low,’ Chris continues. ‘Once established, they will grow to be about 30-36 inches tall, leaving the stain-grade wood open and to be enjoyed at eye level. This is as opposed to planting a hedge, which takes up more depth and makes a yard feel smaller.

'Allowing the back fence to remain visible through the trees and shrubs gives more of a sense of open space as opposed to feeling closed off by a hedge,' she explains.

Plants chosen include Buxus japonicum ‘Globe’, Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’, and Prostanthera ovalifolia ‘Verigata’, among others. ‘We like them for the combination of various green on green foliage – some are bright green and some are gray-green,’ says Chris. ‘They also have various round and mounding shapes. These contrasts are interesting to the eye.’

2. Support a flowering climber

The 'David Street' project, designed by Terremoto (Image credit: Terremoto / Photography: Caitlin Atkinson)

Elena Fox, a landscape designer at Terremoto, says, ‘In this space, the fence serves a dual purpose – not just as a boundary, but as scaffolding for vines and taller plants to climb.

'By encouraging plants to grow vertically, the design invites the fence to visually recede, softening its presence and blending it into the landscape. The lush planting creates a sense of intimacy and enclosure without feeling closed off. This approach transforms a utilitarian element into a vibrant, living wall that enhances the garden’s overall sense of calm and seclusion.’

Scented jasmine, like this star jasmine from Nature Hills, is a lovely choice for upping the sensory appeal, as its blossoms will fill the air with a sweet perfume. There are lots of other easy climbing plants to choose from, too, including clematis, and a wide range of plants for a flowering living wall.

If you can't plant straight into the ground, a planter box and trellis situated next to the fence can also be used to create a similar effect.

3. Keep an open view between garden zones

The 'Hebe' project, designed by Living Gardens Landscape Design (Image credit: Living Gardens Landscape Design / Photography: Brett J Hilton)

Fences aren’t just for the perimeter of plots – they can also be used for garden zoning. In this project, Sacha McCrae, founder of Living Gardens Landscape Design, explains that the family envisioned their backyard as a destination for connection – spaces for lounging, dining, and gathering around a fire pit – while ensuring the existing swimming pool remained visually and spatially integrated with the garden.

‘We introduced all-new hardscape and updated the pool finishes, seamlessly blending the pool area with the surrounding landscape,’ she says. ‘A frameless, pool-safe glass screen now encloses the water, preserving uninterrupted views of the pool and spa while meeting safety requirements.

‘Designed with future grandchildren and young visitors in mind, the glass barrier keeps the pool secure: the latch is placed well out of reach for little ones, ensuring they can only enter with adult supervision.

'Unlike traditional fencing, the transparent railing maintains a sense of openness, preventing the pool zone from visually fragmenting the garden,' Sacha explains.

The low-height planting enhances this feeling of openness while adding soft textures and pops of purple, which are mirrored in the pool area beyond. Large, striking succulents are also used on both sides of the pool fence line, further contributing to the cohesiveness of the design.

You can find frameless, glass fence panels like this at Amazon.

4. Plant a line of standard trees for an orderly look

The 'Timeless Retreat' project, designed by Garden Studio Design (Image credit: Garden Studio Design / Photography: Riley Starr Photography)

‘In this example, the fence is a raw vertical plank cedar fence,’ says Chris Fenmore. ‘This fence will naturally fade to a light gray color. A fence like this is less maintenance than the stain fence and will age nicely over time.’

A row of standard trees is planted in front. ‘Standard trees can be thought of as lollypop-shaped,’ explains Chris. Like in the other Garden Studio Design project shown above, Chris says they wanted screening from the back neighbors, but did not want the closed-off feeling of a full hedge, so opted to let the canopy of the trees start above the fence line allowing a few layers of plantings below.

With a row of landscape lighting, the cedar plank wood glows and is part of the open look, Chris adds.

‘With this example, we wanted clean and tidy rows of plants,’ she continues. 'A double layer of boxwood hedges are clean, simple, and easy to maintain. The layers of structured green on green with the pop of cedar planking all work together to create a tailored look that is pleasing to the eye.'

Looking to recreate something similar? Chris shares their favorite standard tree varieties: Prunus caroliniana ‘Compacta’, Ficus nitida, and Laurus nobilis (available at Fast Growing Trees).

5. Create layers of greenery with pots

This fence has been painted with Thorndown Paints' wood paint in 'Anthracite' (Image credit: Thorndown Paints)

Digging borders or constructing raised beds isn’t always possible, particularly in courtyards and small gardens. If this is the case with your backyard, consider bringing life to your fence line by planting a container garden instead.

Choosing pots in a similar or complementary color scheme helps to create an intentional and curated aesthetic. Go for different sizes and heights for a sense of layering, positioning the larger planters at the back to ensure you can see everything clearly.

A wide range of stylish outdoor planters is available from Wayfair. Just remember to water all containers when needed to keep everything thriving.

In this example, the dark fence color behind really helps the lush greenery of the plants stand out and adds to the contemporary tone. Outdoor mirrors, too, make a good addition – not only do they fill an empty space, but they also help to bounce light around and can make a compact yard feel larger.

6. Mix up the textures

The 'Olive' project, designed by Living Gardens Landscape Design (Image credit: Living Gardens Landscape Design / Photography: Shay Studios)

This front yard landscaping layers interesting textures and playful design features, including the use of ground cover plants.

‘Before the renovation, the front yard was a wide expanse of plain lawn – open but underutilized,’ says Sacha McCrae. ‘Our goal was to transform it into a welcoming extension of the home: a space for gathering, dining, and unwinding around the fire.

‘We introduced a low perimeter fence that subtly defines the space without compromising the sweeping views of the nearby hills. The result is a front yard that feels both open and private – an intimate outdoor room that adds meaningful living space to the home’s footprint.

'A restrained palette of natural wood and concrete grounds the design and reflects the modern, youthful spirit of the family,' Sacha continues. 'Grasses and flowering shrubs soften the hardscape and animate the garden with seasonal color and movement, creating a relaxed, contemporary landscape that feels both intentional and effortless.’

7. Incorporate wildlife-friendly features

The 'Living Landscapes: City Twitchers Garden', designed by Sarah Keyser (Image credit: Miriam Heppell / Alamy Stock Photo)

Traditionally, hedges have more benefits to wildlife than fences. Some have berries for birds, others have spring flowers that entice pollinators, and all can offer some sort of leafy shelter.

However, if you’d rather the look and upkeep of a fence, there are ways to transform it into a haven for visiting creatures.

Fixing bug hotels (like this beautiful teal bug hotel from Amazon) or small bird boxes (like this one from Amazon) to the fence is a good place to start, or perhaps you could nestle a bird bath alongside (but be sure to clean your bird bath often).

When it comes to planting along your fence line, opt for pollinator-friendly plants (double-bloomed varieties, such as some types of dahlias, are best avoided as the pollen is harder to access).

Be sure to include winter plants for wildlife, too, to help them through the coldest months. You may also wish to plant a small tree to provide somewhere for birds to take cover – and you could also hang a bird feeder from its branches.

8. Opt for a drought-tolerant design

The 'Palermo' project, designed by Terremoto (Image credit: Terremoto / Photography: Caitlin Atkinson)

Sometimes, a subtle approach is called for when marking out a boundary.

Elena Fox says, ‘The fence in this landscape is thoughtfully designed to feel more like an outline than a barrier, gently delineating space without creating division. By staggering the wooden slats and interweaving them with layered plantings of varying heights, the design effectively begins to erase the fence, softening its presence.

‘Lush, drought-tolerant vegetation spills through and around the structure, encouraging visual and ecological continuity,’ she continues. ‘The result is a landscape that feels open, welcoming, and deeply neighborly – one that prioritizes connection over separation.’

Choosing drought-tolerant plants, such as succulents, is also an effective way to keep maintenance down – as is opting for gravel around them. Our guides on designing a drought-tolerant yard and xeriscaping have lots more advice on this type of style.

9. Combine intricate fences with bold blooms

The 'Colour Box' show garden, designed by Charlie Bloom and Simon Webster, at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival (Image credit: Ian Sedwell / Alamy Stock Photo)

Weathering steel is a durable choice for fencing (or garden edging), and brings a sense of industrial cool to any backyard.

Its natural, rusted patina adds warmth to a color palette and often makes it a stand-out feature in itself, rather than just a functional boundary line. This is particularly the case if it includes an intricate, cut-out design, as shown in the example above.

Weathering steel can work beautifully alongside a minimal yet sculptural planting scheme – think tightly-clipped shrubs or ornamental grasses in pared-back tones, for instance.

However, it can also serve as a bold backdrop for an explosion of color, as seen here, where bright, painterly borders complement the botanically-themed panels. The overall look is full of abundance and fun, with perennials such as helenium, yarrow, penstemons, and Verbena bonariensis offering long-lasting summer joy.

Meanwhile, black stone tiling underfoot provides a contemporary contrast against the tapestry of tones.

10. Add a water feature for a focal point

The Killik & Co ‘Save for a Rainy Day Garden’ at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, designed by Baz Grainger (Image credit: Ellen Rooney / Alamy Stock Photo)

The famous RHS Chelsea Flower Show in England, UK always provides plenty of inspiration for our backyards. And in this gold-medal-winning design by Baz Grainger, the fence line is anything but boring.

The boundary is utilized as a focal point, combining rustic stone and neat slatted wood with a minimalistic water feature – which then channels through the garden. Pockets of relaxed planting, with green, peach, and purple hues, tie the space together and add to the natural vibe.

If you’re not looking for a large landscaping update but like the idea of bringing water into your space, there are plenty of water garden ideas you can adopt. Perhaps consider placing a small fountain (from Walmart) or water bowl beside your fence, cocooned in ornamental grasses, flowering shrubs, or herbaceous perennials.

FAQs

What are some recommended plants for along a fence line?

When picking plants, it’s always best to consider what will work well with the conditions you have, which means taking into account factors such as your US hardiness zone. Of course, you’ll also want to think about their eventual sizes, and how they will fill the space.

Elena Fox, a landscape designer at Terremoto, shares that the plants she works with are always site-specific, both in terms of regionality and function. ‘Since we mainly work in California, my favorite native evergreen shrubs for a fence we might wish to conceal are silk tassel bush (Garrya elliptica) and Pacific wax myrtle (Myrica californica).

'For fences where we might want to layer verdancy in front and behind, I love using wispy, sculptural plants such as desert mallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua), Santa Cruz Island buckwheat (Eriogonum arborescens), and red flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum),' she adds.

Sacha McCrae, founder of Living Gardens Landscape Design, says, ‘Grasses are a favorite tool of mine for softening the lines of a fence – introducing texture, movement, and a sense of ease to the garden. Paired with a sculptural succulent, the contrast feels both deliberate and modern.

‘A touch of color can elevate the composition, but I prefer to keep it focused: a single bloom tone reads cleaner, more contemporary,’ Sacha continues. ‘Simplicity is key – limit the plant palette and repeat selections for a cohesive, high-impact result.’

What color should you paint your fence?

Painting a wooden fence can have transformative effects, but the color is all down to personal preference and the look you want to achieve. For instance, black or dark gray is always a modern choice, while stained wood allows the natural patina to shine through. Some fence colors can even make your space look larger, and there are some fence colors that add to the value of your home.

As the ideas above demonstrate, fence line landscaping doesn’t have to be dull. But of course, for long-lasting impact, it’s important to keep the fence itself looking its best – no matter what design choices you make. To do so, our guide on how to remove algae from a fence may come in handy.

9 garden upgrades landscape designers never regret – thoughtful, stylish changes that will elevate a yard for years to come

Kayleigh Dray — Mon, 26 May 2025 03:30:10 +0000

It’s official; the garden upgrades that designers never regret aren’t flashy or fleeting; instead, they’re the thoughtful changes that quietly transform a space, season after season.

Whether it’s a city courtyard garden, a shady side yard, a suburban spot (complete with white picket fence), or a rambling country plot, it makes sense that you want to dial up the ‘oasis’ factor on your backyard ideas like a pro.

Now, this might mean making a subtle shift, or a bigger structural change, but designers agree on one thing: you want to enhance how the space is lived in, not just how it looks.

(Image credit: Future)

The 9 garden upgrades designers never regret

From integrated seating to soft lighting, sensory planting to clever zoning, it stands to reason that the garden upgrades designers never regret can and will stand the test of time.

While learning how to commission a garden designer is likely the easiest way to go about this, there are some pro tips and tricks out there for those who'd like to do the work themselves.

Rather than reach for the latest trend or quick fix, then, take a cue from the professionals and look this way.

1. Creating a hydrozone

(Image credit: Getty Images/ BasieB)

Hydrozoning might sound like something from a sci-fi film, but the concept couldn't be simpler; you just need to make sure that you group plants with similar water needs together in your garden.

'I never regret upgrading to a smart, hydrozoned irrigation system,' says Shireen Zia – an award-winning designer and principal of EcoGardens Landscape Design.

'It’s become more of a necessity than a luxury. It protects plant health, conserves water, and makes seasonal adjustments effortless,' adds Shireen, noting that it's the easiest way for beginners to learn how to water plants properly.

2. Add an irrigation system

While watering by hand is a great way to soak the roots of your plants, you can also take the hard grafting out using soaker hoses, drip irrigation, or sprinklers like this Eden sprinkler system from Amazon.

'An irrigation system is a game changer, as it ensures that your plants stay healthy, saves you time, and can be hidden underground, maintaining the beauty of your garden,' says Alexander Betz, landscape designer and founder of Plant by Number.

Seth Pearsoll, Creative Director and VP, Flower Show at Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, agrees wholeheartedly.

'Invisible, efficient systems take one big worry off your plate. Good irrigation lets you focus on enjoying the garden, not keeping it alive,' he says promisingly.

'Don't forget to focus on drainage, either; it's not glamorous, but foundational. A well-drained, properly graded site makes everything else easier, and makes the garden last.'

3. Opt for high-quality foundation plantings

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

It's a big part of learning how to plan a garden, so it makes sense that foundational planting is one of those garden upgrades designers never regret.

'Foundation plants are the shrubs, evergreens, and structural plants placed around the base of a home to serve as the visual anchor for the landscape,' explains Linda Vater, garden design expert on behalf of Southern Living® Plant Collection.

'Many newly built homes are either a blank slate with little to no landscaping, or they may have a selection of plants that don’t suit the taste of the new homeowner,' she continues.

'Sometimes, existing foundation plantings may lack traits like pest and disease resistance, heat tolerance, or drought tolerance, which may lead them to decline faster than plants that have been specially bred with those traits.'

Linda goes on to note that 'upgrading your foundation might involve replacing existing shrubs with hardier, more low-maintenance varieties that offer desirable traits such as reduced water requirements or minimal pruning needs'.

'It could also mean introducing selections that are more distinctive and tailored to your personal style; for example, adding vibrant foliage color with ‘Sunshine’ Ligustrum or Purple Diamond® Semi-Dwarf Loropetalum.'

Whatever you decide, Linda swears that 'investing in this upgrade early means a garden that feels intentional, cohesive, and enduring'.

'Great foundation plantings can frame your home’s architecture, soften harsh lines, and provide year-round interest,' she finishes.

Seth Pearsoll of the PHS points out that, while 'perennials come and go, a backbone of trees and shrubs gives permanence, texture, and year-round shape'.

Shireen Zia agrees, adding that 'strategically placed shade trees brings instant privacy, comfort, and structure – and all while enhancing microclimates, too'.

4. Make thoughtful lighting choices

(Image credit: Future/ANNAICK GUITTENY)

Be sure to research your outdoor lighting ideas if you want your garden to look like it was designed by a pro; honestly, a good ambient system is one of those garden upgrades that designers never regret.

'Thoughtful, low-voltage landscape lighting transforms the garden after dark, highlighting focal points, adding safety, and extending usability,' says Shireen Zia.

'Adding lighting features can transform the garden after dark while enhancing safety. Incorporate spike lights for plants and trees, wall-mounted up/down lights for fences and walls, and recessed step or decking lights,' agrees Andrew Betz.

As Seth Pearsoll points out, 'outdoor lighting should feel like moonlight, not a spotlight', so it's best to invest in 'integrated, low-glare systems elevate evening use without screaming for attention'.

Try something like these wallet-friendly GIGALUMI Solar Lights from Amazon to help you get started.

5. Invest in timeless containers

(Image credit: Future)

Container garden or not, forking out for stylish outdoor planters and pots is one of those savvy moves beloved by gardening pros.

'Timeless, high-quality containers are a garden upgrade that rarely disappoints. They add structure, height, and a sense of intention to patios, entryways, and garden beds, and they’re perfect for seasonal displays or spots where in-ground planting isn’t practical,' promises Linda Vater.

'When it comes to purchasing containers, material matters. Lightweight resin planters are a good investment if you plan on moving your pots throughout the year, offering the look of stone or ceramic without the weight,' continues Linda.

'Terracotta promotes excellent drainage, while cast stone and high-fired ceramic are durable, elegant options. When it comes to appearance, neutral colors and classic shapes like urns, globes, and rectangles remain stylish year after year.'

Something like Amazon's Creative Co-Op Large Orange & Whitewashed Terracotta Urn, then, should do the job nicely.

Sable Polyresin Outdoor Planter

This planter can be used indoors and outdoors. It features a leafy vine pattern along its rounded silhouette, and a sleek rolled rim for that perfect coastal farmhouse look.

Vintage Planter Pot Ceramic

This charming planter has a drainage hole and is made from durable ceramic for indoor and outdoor use.

Weave Planter Pot

This terracotta planter has a beautiful weave pattern. It's made from a blend of recycled plastic, stone powder, and wood dust.

6. Define your garden rooms

(Image credit: Matthew Giampietro)

If you can do it, Shireen Zia says that 'designing purposeful zones – whether for dining, relaxation, or edible gardening – establishes structure and enhances spatial flow'.

'This thoughtful approach encourages intentional use of the landscape while allowing it to evolve seamlessly with a family’s changing needs,' she says, dubbing this one of the genius garden upgrades designers never regret.

'Transitional moments – where materials shift, or beds are clearly framed – give the garden clarity and confidence,' agrees Seth Pearsoll.

'It’s how you move from yard to landscape.'

7. Opt for quality, always

(Image credit: Arcaid Images/Alamy Stock Photo )

Using quality hardscape materials to bring your garden ideas to life – such as natural stone, high-end pavers, or sustainably sourced wood – is absolutely on our list of garden upgrades designers never regret.

'Doing this enhances the overall elegance and craftsmanship of the landscape, as these materials bring a timeless appeal and contribute to the garden’s durability and long-lasting value,' explains Shireen Zia.

And, on that note, Seth Pearsoll urges gardeners to remember that 'less really is more'. 'Repeating color, plant forms, or materials calms the chaos and makes the garden feel thoughtful and designed,' he says.

8. Install a good-quality fence

(Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

Another of those garden upgrades designers never regret? Paying a little more money to bring all of your beautiful fence ideas to life.

'Swapping out the chain-link fence for a wooden or picket fence can give your backyard a more polished look,' says Alexander Betz. 'Or, for a more plant-based approach, consider a living fence by planting a row of trees or large plants to create the illusion of a fence.'

9. Create a new flower bed

Yes, you'd best believe that your overflowing list of flower bed ideas could absolutely lend itself to our list of the garden upgrade ideas that designers never regret.

'We’ve all looked at that open patch of grass or underutilized corner in the landscape and imagined the possibilities, but creating a new garden bed can feel overwhelming – especially if you’re contending with tough soil,' says Linda Vater, noting that this project 'requires vision, patience, and a bit of elbow grease'.

'Garden beds create natural focal points, guide the eye through the landscape, and provide a stage for plants to shine. They can soften hard edges, add pizzazz to mailboxes, frame architectural features, or simply add lushness and texture to a yard,' she explains.

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

'With proper preparation – such as amending the soil and choosing plants suited to the conditions – a new garden bed can thrive for years with relatively low maintenance,' continues Linda.

'Beyond the aesthetic boost, beds also encourage biodiversity by offering habitats for pollinators and beneficial insects. Whether it’s a small border along a walkway or a sweeping curved bed around a tree, carving out a new planting area is one of the most rewarding upgrades a homeowner can make.'

FAQs

How can I make my garden look better?

According to award-winning garden designer Shireen Zia, the easiest way to make your garden look better is to install an integrated water feature.

'Whether a minimalist basin or a custom fountain, water introduces movement, sound, and a calming rhythm. It’s often the element that turns a space into a sanctuary,' she says.

Seth Pearsoll, meanwhile, urges gardeners to remember that 'designers don’t “use all the colors.” We edit'.

'Think less variety, more rhythm, like a chorus, not a solo,' he says, insisting it's better to pick 1-3 colours than go for the full rainbow effect.

When it comes to the garden upgrades which designers never regret, then, the trick is to think long-term; good drainage, excellent native planting, zoned areas, quality materials, and a restricted colour palette will all go a long way to making a beautiful outdoor space.

Still, don't forget that 'every garden needs a moment that feels brave,' says Seth Pearsoll. 'A massive container, a dramatic tree, a color choice that breaks the rules,' he suggests. 'Just one good risk brings the rest into focus!'

If you'll excuse us, then, we're off to think outside the box (and get into the garden at the same time).

Heavy Duty Spade

This heavy-duty spade will last for many years and prove invaluable when planting new shrubs and trees in your borders.

Cowhide Leather Gloves

These yellow gardening gloves are tough and durable, helpful when pruning and planting in the yard this summer.

Hori hori garden knife

With a long, sharp blade, this hori hori knife is perfectly designed for weeding in the borders around your cherished plants.

Triangular shaped garden ideas – landscape designers share 9 ingenious ways to redesign your corner plot

Jill Morgan — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:00:00 +0000

If you are struggling to make the most of a tricky outdoor plot, then these triangular shaped garden ideas can prove hugely helpful. Encouraging you to see your patch in a whole new way, they will inspire you to take action and amplify its distinctive features with confidence while disguising any less than lovely areas.

With converging boundaries radiating from the property that culminate in an angle, these triangular or wedge-shaped gardens can feel austere and unwelcoming. Often difficult to arrange furniture in, with boundaries that dominate and a rather severe and unnatural focal point at the far end, they can prove daunting to plan and plant.

Fortunately, there are plenty of tried and tested design rules to tap into, that can help you handle your awkward shaped garden with ease. Here we share our favorites from leading landscape designers.

9 triangular shaped garden ideas to try

Knowing what you want from your triangular shaped garden is the key to a successful design. 'You can choose to lean into the triangular shape, or to obscure it. Your chosen approach will depend on your preferred style,' says landscape designer Kevin Lenhart.

Bring statement trees centerstage

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

Distracting the eye away from converging boundaries is a simple and effective way of rebalancing a plot’s triangular shape. A central focal point, especially if it has a vertical outline, will instantly command attention which is why trees and shrubs with a vertical growing habit are ideally suited.

'Depending on available space, introducing focal trees or shrubs, positioned in response to the edges of planted masses more so than the edges of the triangular space, can further help to pull attention away from the triangular form,' explains Kevin.

Standard and multi-stemmed trees with attractive colored, or textured bark, are obvious contenders, and for added designer flair, you can choose to mirror their key characteristic in the surrounding borders, furniture or planters.

Ghostly white Himalayan birch - Betula jacquemontii - makes a dramatic statement against dark evergreen yew or holly hedging while the glossy claret red bark of the Tibetan cherry – Prunus serrula is amplified by later summer borders bursting with burgundy dahlias, amaranthus and sanguisorba.

For more inspiration check out the best fast growing trees for privacy and these statement tree ideas.

Embrace round organic forms

(Image credit: Getty Images/ byjeng)

The strong converging lines of a triangular plot, particularly if it is compact and level, can appear harsh and far from inviting. Unless you happen to like the rather dramatic look, you will need to find ways of dividing up the space or, at least, softening its impact.

'More organic aesthetics make it easier to obscure the triangular nature of a space,' says Kevin. 'Generally speaking, you can utilize organically shaped masses of plants to introduce curving, blurry forms that pull the eye away from the triangular form of a planting space.'

Layering the some of the best landscaping shrubs informally down either side of the garden, can help create movement and gently pull the gaze into the centre of the plot. Opt for a mix of evergreen and deciduous species with contrasting foliage. Winning combinations include Purple Japanese barberry, hebe ‘Purple Shamrock’ and Japanese skimmia with its deep red flower buds that appear in fall.

Or why not try clipping black stemmed pittosporum tenuifolium variegatum and dark green box leaf holly into mounds and contrast with the black upright stems of deciduous cornus alba ‘kesselringii’.

We like the look of these ClassicCut Hedge Shears from Amazon to make light work of the job.

Soften the edges of beds and borders

(Image credit: Getty Images/ R A Kearton)

Nothing reinforces the dramatic and constrictive nature of a triangular plot than ramrod straight borders that hug the perimeter.

Create a much more welcoming and relaxed space by varying the depth of the planting beds, or ditching them altogether and allowing the planting to weave into a centrally paved area with castellated edges or a free flowing gravel garden.

'Allowing plants to spill over the edge of the planting area helps to blur the edges and obscure the triangular form of the planting area,' adds Kevin.

'Using plants with a bit of height near the edges, say knee to lower thigh height, essentially elevates the visible edge of the planting area a few feet above ground, and converts it from a crisp hardscape edge to an undulating, irregular edge defined by the form of the plants along the perimeter.'

Go for a corner seating area

(Image credit: Alamy/ Debu55y)

The converging lines of a triangular plot are naturally suited to a cosy seating spot. Nestled between garden boundaries with an expansive view of the plot to enjoy, there’s vast potential to create a restful area to either proudly survey your land or sit in quiet seclusion.

'We are naturally drawn to want to see what lies around the path ahead,' says Landscaping expert Joe Raboine. 'In biophilic design, this idea is called modes of mystery, and can add fun and excitement to a space, as it draws the guest through the garden. Rounding a corner and seeing a beautiful secret sitting space is something we delight in.'

Depending on the scale of the plot and how shady, sunny or exposed this area is, you can choose from a roomy curved bench that spans the garden’s furthest point, two sofas positioned at right angles backed by walls or fencing or, perhaps, a hanging teardrop cocoon chair (from Amazon) for dreaming in.

A corner bench such as this wooden design from Walmart would look stunning surrounded by scented climbers or beneath a corner pergola such as this Vinyl Alcove Corner Pergola from Walmart.

Go with a geometric approach

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Martin Wahlborg)

Take a cue from your plot's dramatic footprint and incorporate other geometric shapes into its layout. It’s not a look for the faint hearted, but it will exude class, elegance and prove timeless too.

'Rely on classic geometry to inform the design. Overlay a square or a diamond on top of the triangle and allow the leftover space to be your planting,' says Landscape Architect Stacilyn Feldman. 'This will help define the most usable space and create interest in the potential lost areas.'

Use color to shape the space

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

Balancing the proportions of a triangular plot can be tricky. Often wider than they are deep, these backyards can easily feel overpowering. While there are plenty of garden design tricks for visually expanding the space it’s important not to undervalue the effect color can have.

'Color can help push boundaries back visually,' explains Stacilyn. 'Paint your fence a dark color - think charcoal gray or dark navy blue tones - or use darker tones of vegetation farther away and lighter tones closer to the viewer.'

Looking for inspiration? then be sure to delve into Glidden's Exterior Paint range at Walmart, which includes shades such as Black Magic, Goblin Gray and Night Rendezvous.

Use the angular space wisely

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Rabbitti)

With a tapering footprint, triangular yards can prove tricky to plan. Here, balancing practicality with a beautiful aesthetic is even more challenging due to the diminishing space and the exaggerated perspective it creates. There are some simple design rules to follow though, which can help you design with confidence.

'For triangular shaped gardens, the largest part of the shape will most likely open towards the house so look at the space and consider how it relates to the house, windows and doors. Then think, how will you use the space?' advises landscape designer Andrea Scharff.

'You want to create a beautiful yet usable space. I recommend keeping the largest space open, with either lawn or gravel and create a series of garden rooms for dining, lounging and cooking divided up with beautiful landscaping around the exterior of the open space.'

To keep the space feeling restful and uncluttered Andrea also suggests to, 'use a maximum of five plant varieties and two hardscape varieties to keep the space harmonious'.

Entice with a water feature at the furthest point

(Image credit: Getty Images/ Jacky Parker Photography)

The lure of gently babbling water is a powerful charm in any outside space. In a triangular plot it can encourage exploration to the garden’s furthest point and provide a particularly magical experience if surrounded by sensory and romantic planting.

'Consider some visual anchors,' says Joe. 'These could be features like fountains or bird baths and can be placed at key corners or path intersections as well as the far end of the plot.'

Imagine following a meandering gravel pathway, passing flowering shrubs, deliciously scented roses to be greeted by a simple water cascade, overspilling container or elegant wall mounted waterspout.

A smartly paved clearing showcasing a tiered fountain can be a majestic and spectacular garden focal point and a natural culmination for a tricky triangular plot. Heighten the formal feel by surrounding the focal point with a low clipped yew hedge and fragrant lavender.

Vary the level for maximum interest

(Image credit: Alamy/ Ellen Isaacs)

An empty triangular plot all on one level is dull! Devoid of interest and dominated by boundaries that meet at an angle, there is little to invite you into the space and spend time there.

Solve the issue by introducing different levels – these could be in the form of planted borders, ornate screens, hedges or stone walls – they’ll instantly obscure the view creating intrigue, depth and a sense of discovery.

Get creative with your choice of plants and materials and be artful with your placement of paths and patios. Avoid straight paths or walls that lead directly down the length of the garden. Instead work with curving beds and borders and create changes in level across the width of the plot.

Be careful to stagger access points such as steps, pathways and stepping stone so they meander throughout the triangular space rather than line up corridor fashion, as this will appear too harsh and unsettling.

Now you have plenty of insight on how to handle your awkward shaped plot, the next step is to rework your space. From discovering how to make a courtyard garden look bigger to how to make the most of a side yard there are plenty more transferable design tricks to delve into and try.

Landscape designers share the secrets to creating a romantic garden – for flamboyant fragrance, magical gateways, and cascading blooms to delight the senses

Jill Morgan — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 03:00:00 +0000

If you imagine sitting outside surrounded by gloriously fragrant blooms, gazing at a tiered fountain and intricate, abundant blooms, then you need to know how to design a romantic garden.

From borders awash with flamboyant perfumed roses, pergolas smothered in cascading wisteria to worn brick paths softened with overspilling ground cover, this exquisite gardening style has the potential to inspire, unwind and thrill with its sheer abundance of sensory charms. However, due to its extravagant nature this look can be easy to get wrong.

A fine balance of structural features and floriferous planting, it takes a shrewd eye and a selective approach to create a garden that looks expertly finessed rather than a complete haphazard jumble. Markedly different to cottage garden ideas these backyard ideas will inspire you and give you confidence to get the most from your outside space.

9 ideas for expertly designing a romantic garden

Discover the must-have design ideas for creating a romantic garden. These tips from leading garden experts will help you achieve the enchanting flower filled yard you dream of.

Make a magical entrance

(Image credit: Alamy/ Yola Watrucka)

Romance and intrigue go hand in hand, so set the scene for a romantic garden from the get-go. Garden gates and doorways are full of promise and provide a real design opportunity to move from one gardening style to another, as Stacilyn Feldman, Principal, Oehme, Van Sweden explains:

‘The transition from everyday spaces into a romantic garden should feel magical. A finely detailed wood gate, with brick columns on either side can make the two steps between spaces a clear departure and give a sense of arrival.’

If you are lucky enough to have an existing entry point to your yard – whether it’s a beautifully weathered wooden gate or doorway set in a high brick wall – make sure you celebrate its charms by framing it with flowering climbers, a pair of topiary planters or a duo of wall pots mounted on latticework panels.

Need to create a sense of expectation? Try installing a decorative archway, planting up a hedge with distinct opening or snapping up a reclaimed timber door and building it into an existing boundary.

Embrace romantic roses

(Image credit: Lillian King via Getty Images)

No romantic garden is complete without garden roses. Whether they are ramblers, climbers, standards or shrub roses, these are the glorious crescendo of the flowering year and will fill the garden with their delectable blooms and intoxicating perfume.

‘Roses have always been the unsung narrators of love and symbols of passion, loss, devotion, and yearning,’ explains Liam Beddall, senior rose consultant at David Austin Roses.

‘Many of our roses are inspired by literary characters, capturing the depth and nuance of human connection. Whether grounded and dependable like Gabriel Oak, or as intriguing and passionate as Eustacia Vye, these roses offer a way to experience the great love stories in your own garden.’

Discover the best climbing roses and the best roses for hedging and follow our rose care and growing guide to keep them in tip top condition.

Show off trellis and delicate details

(Image credit: Alamy/ Chloe Haerr )

Throw the abundance and gentle organic forms of large blooms, shrubs and twining climbers into relief with a few, carefully chosen intricate focal points.

From latticework panels, fine wirework supports to timber obelisks and pergolas, these simple features with their regularly spaced clean lines create instant contrast to the gentle wildness associated with romantic style gardens. Treillage is a fast growing interior trend too, popularised by many leading designers.

‘Treillage, arbors and gazebos add height and clean lines against the billowy plant forms,’ says Stacilyn Feldman. ‘Take these structures to the next level by climbing clematis or roses on them and hiding them among larger plant material to be a discovery in the garden.’

Cutting through the mass of foliage, use these structural forms to provide an enduring framework that remains constant throughout the changing seasons. Investigate more climbing plant support ideas here and check out the wide array of trellis designs at Walmart, including the Dura-Trel Winchester panel in mocha.

Indulge in floriferous blooms

(Image credit: Alamy/ Eugene Sergeev)

No romantic style garden would be complete without an abundance of seductive full blooms. Any flower form that is particularly extravagant; perhaps with ruffled, deeply cupped or with multiple layers of petals will convey this look effortlessly.

‘To create a romantic style garden, focus on soft colour palettes like pastels, and try blending roses with other romantic blooms like peonies,’ says Liam Beddall.

Quantity is also essential when it comes to fulfilling this excessive look. ‘Don’t plant one rose, plant 15 or 20 of them! The repetition of blooms and sweet fragrance will stay with you. More blooms also give you the chance to cut and bring into the house,’ explains Stacilyn Feldman.

‘Interlace your traditional romantic species with modern, long-blooming species (nepeta, salvia) or intersperse some evergreen, textural changes (rosemary is a favorite) to keep the interest going in the bed.’

Other go-to flowers include wisteria with its mass of floral cascades, opulent silky petaled Oriental poppies and uplifting lilac with its tight clusters of tiny, perfumed flowers. All these garden favorites are available at Burpee.

Soaring flower spires of classic garden blooms such as foxgloves, larkspur, hollyhocks and delphiniums mingle dramatically, adding height and interest to herbaceous borders, from late spring through to fall.

The feeling of opulence doesn’t stop there, as Liam Beddall explains, 'Use flowing lines with winding paths and prioritise a natural, slightly wild appearance with plants spilling over borders.’

Go for simple open fencing

(Image credit: Alamy/ Danita Delimont)

You may think that fencing is perhaps the least romantic element of any garden but think again, as there’s something effortlessly charming about picket or post and rail designs. It may be down to their fine, rhythmic lines or the fact that they let the light shine through, but as one of many front yard fencing ideas, we just love the way these simple pared back boundaries let the plants and blooms peek through.

Cedar, oak and chestnut are traditional fencing materials due to their naturally occurring oils that help repel moisture, along with their dense wood grain. The timber will gradually take on a soft silvered finish after years exposed to the elements which adds to its appeal.

Derived from the rows of defensive sharpened logs that settlers first set out to define and defend their territory, picket fencing has long been associated with the East Coast states from New England down to Key West. Mass produced during the 19^th century and usually whitewashed, traditionally with a preservative mix of lime and water, these fences were and continue to be an iconic sight full of heritage and old world charm.

Choose to ring your yard – or a section of your outside space – with this style of fence and you will add plenty of timeless character. Interweave them with rambling roses, honeysuckle and clematis, some of the best plants to cover a fence, and you set the tone for the enchanting space within.

Add trees for dreaming under

(Image credit: Alamy/ nevio)

With their steadfast nature and enduring charm, garden trees deserve to be leading characters in any romantic garden. Whether they are prized for their graceful arching habit, low curving boughs or dreamy spring blossom, trees should be celebrated and enjoyed as designer Stacilyn Feldman explains.

'Don’t forget about the overhead canopy in a romantic space. What is more romantic than a swing or a bench under the largest tree in the garden? Plant trees in strategic spots to frame views and provide shade for a summer picnic.’

Other ideas include stringing up a hammock, encircling the trunk with a timber or wrought iron tree seat such as this one from Walmart or simply laying a blanket down so you can gaze up at the branches and distant sky above.

Willows with their graceful, draping branches, stately magnolias and gnarly fruit trees, amongst the best trees for spring blossom, are just some of the leading contenders. But while there are some key points to consider when deciding how to choose a tree, each designer often has their own favorite.

‘We like fast growing Platanus (sycamore), but the ultimate dream is a centuries-old weeping beech where you can get lost in the limbs and be hidden from the world,' Stacilyn continues.

Choose decorative ornaments as focal points

(Image credit: Alamy/Lee Sugden )

Fanciful and undeniably romantic, highly decorative treasures have long been part of the romantic garden ideal. Whether they are genuine artifacts from distant travels or convincing replicas, regencycore staples such as ornate urns, classical plinths, multi-tiered fountains, armillary spheres and sundials can all be staged as head turning and evocative garden features.

Often engaging the senses and the surrounding natural world, these outdoor adornments demand wistful consideration and can be placed in the garden as a surprise discovery or majestic highlight.

Whether it’s a lavender lined pathway leading to a lichen covered sundial or a Verdigris planter placed at the centre of a paved circle each ornament will lend its own distinct character to the immediate surrounding area.

Enduring charm of period features

(Image credit: Alamy/ Keith Tucker)

Introducing exquisitely designed and crafted period features is a key element of any romantic style garden. Reminiscent of bygone days, these structures are often memorable settings for intimate moments whether it is a peaceful morning coffee, a restorative read or celebratory drink with a loved one.

Follies, gazebos, summerhouses and fanciful grottos can all offer a peaceful and private retreat, that can be hidden amongst foliage or celebrated by positioning it in a prime location, on the edge of a pond or far end of a path.

‘They are a tease of a place,’ explains Stacilyn Feldman. ‘You see them in the distance and have a desire to go there, but really it’s not a building you can use for much aside from afternoon tea, somewhere to rest, or a hideaway for a moment alone. We like to use garden structures to add intimate spaces and immediate character to a garden.’

Potting sheds, log cabins and glasshouses also hold a strong romantic appeal as Nelly Hall, Brand Director at Alitex explains. ‘A traditional glasshouse brings both beauty and functionality to a garden.

Aesthetically, it becomes a focal point whilst practically, it extends the growing season, provides a protected environment for nurturing plants, and creates a versatile space for everything from potting to relaxation.’

When it comes to creating the perfect vision, the choice of setting and finish are all important. ‘Choosing the right materials and finishes is essential for achieving a romantic, heritage aesthetic. A soft ivory or white finish is a classic choice, reminiscent of glasshouses found in stately homes.

Thoughtful details such as cresting, decorative spandrels, and gently curved eaves, display the craftsmanship of a traditional design,’ Hall continues. ‘When choosing where to place your glasshouse consider framing it with symmetrical borders, gravel pathways, or flanking it with espaliered fruit trees, all very typical of a heritage garden. The surrounding planting should feel curated yet natural, allowing the glasshouse to harmonise with its environment.’

Make room for wild style planting

(Image credit: Alamy/ Tom Irvine)

There’s something truly enchanting about gazing upon an area of unkempt meadow grass bejewelled with tiny blooms. From delicate snowdrops, cheery crocus through to summer flowering natives and, fall cyclamen, there’s a flower choice for every season ready to fill your yard with color and beauty.

Savour the spectacle up close by mowing or scything a winding path through the long grass. Keep it simple by leaving the surface mown. For extra definition edge with simple overlapping hoops of cut willow or hazel. Discover how to drift plant with bulbs for extra inspiration.

If you are looking for more dreamy landscaping ideas be sure to check out how to create a nostalgia garden and the best English garden plants even for hot climates.

Also bear in mind Stacilyn's top tip: 'When it comes to romance gardens, historic precedent would lead you to believe that only fussy plants can live in these gardens. Modern adaptations of traditional species (think roses and peonies) are more disease-resistant and easier to grow.'

How to create a native landscape in 2025 – experts reveal eco-friendly gardening secrets to transform your plot

Thomas Rutter — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

If you are thinking about making your yard more sustainable or eco-friendly in the coming year, have you considered creating a native landscape? To me, creating and nurturing a space that is in sync with the wider ecosystem is far more than a fad or gardening trend - it is a way to build a yard that is beautiful, biodiverse, resource-efficient, and in sync with the landscape beyond the garden fence.

As a former professional gardener, I have worked in many different gardens, and whether growing in Wales, England, or Italy, working with the wider landscape and using plants that are native to your region is a surefire way to success. In Tuscany, for example, fragrant lavender, rosemary and several species of iris all thrive in their native Mediterranean climate, requiring little care or attention despite the scorching summer heat. It made so much more sense to grow these native plants as opposed to thirsty roses or peonies.

Whether you are a beginner who is starting from scratch or looking to transform your existing garden with sustainable garden landscaping methods, learning how to create a native landscape will be both rewarding and impactful, not just for yourself but for the local environment too. Here, garden experts reveal top tips on how to achieve this.

(Image credit: Future/Jacky Hobbs)

How to create a native landscape

Building a native landscape needn't be daunting. There are easy and simple garden ideas that can have an impact in the following year, all without breaking the bank. Here, I share tips on plant selection, design principles, wildlife and garden maintenance, helping you to enjoy an eco-friendly native landscape just outside your back door.

Understanding your region’s native flora

(Image credit: Getty Images/Sundry Photography )

'To create a native landscape, think local,' says Tim Heneveld, garden expert and Country Director for Pergolux in North America. 'The goal is to work with your environment, not against it. Think about what you find growing locally - what can see when you drive in fields and along the roadside?

'Often, these native plants will prove to be tough and resilient,' Tim continues. 'Just think of some of our best native grasses that are beautiful and drought-resistant, such as little bluestem or California fescue. All you need to do is find out what grows locally in your ecosystem, and replicate it.' Little bluestem live plants are available from Amazon.

If you want to find out more information, the US Fish and Wildlife Service has a native plant list that will help you to identify what grows in your region. While the term 'native' can be applied countrywide, with such vast and diverse terrains in different parts of North America, it is good to focus on plants close to home.

For example, if you reside in San Diego and want to know more about California native planting, finding out what grows in sunny, southern climates around the western coast is a good idea.

'Native irises are perfect perennials to grow and we are lucky to have so many beautiful options that grow across North America,' says Maya Argaman, native plant expert and Horticulture Senior Program Coordinator at the California Native Plant Society.

'Native species from the local environment will prove far tougher than other options,' Maya adds. 'Most native irises will tolerate direct sun, poor drainage and high moisture, thriving when planted next to a creek or in a naturally wet area.'

One example would be the Douglas iris, Iris douglasiana, native to the Pacific coast in California and Oregon, or the Rocky Mountain iris, Iris missouriensis, which grows at high elevations in alpine environments across North America. Rocky Mountain iris seeds are available from Amazon.

Growing native plants that thrive in your region will prove to be both impactful and practical, as most species will have evolved to tolerate the climate and conditions found in your locality, including the soil. For this reason, using native planting is the best way to create an eco-friendly garden.

Design using native and natural materials

(Image credit: Tim Graham / Alamy Stock Photo)

'Structure matters in any garden design, but for a native landscape, think about using local and natural elements,' says Tim Heneveld. 'Think about using stone pathways, wood accents, and a sleek pergola made of natural materials, which can tie it all together while keeping the space functional.

'The aim is simple but intentional,' Tim adds, 'so you want to design a yard that’s not just a pretty garden but is a sustainable, living ecosystem that feels as good as it looks.'

As Tim says, using natural materials that are local to your home is a good idea both for the environment and for the look and feel of your yard.

So, if you are looking for patio flooring ideas or paved backyard ideas, consider asking a local stone merchant what materials can be used, including wood that has been harvested or stone that has been quarried nearby. For example, limestone has long been quarried in Illinois, whereas in Texas, Massachusetts and Indiana, granite is plentiful.

Reusing old materials is another option that is cost-effective and good for the environment. Sustainability is more than just a garden industry trend and will continue to dominate how we think and design gardens for years to come. Stone slabs, metal frames and wooden structures can all be found in junkyards or furniture sales and should be a consideration.

Native Plant Book

Native Plant Gardening by Haeley Giambalvo is a great book to buy for yourself or as a gift if you are wanting to learn all about native plants. Not only will your garden look great, but it will provide food and habitat for insects, birds, and other wildlife.

Maintenance tips for native gardens

(Image credit: Clive Nichols via Getty Images)

If you like the sound of creating a native landscape in the coming year, another rule to adhere to is going organic. In the wild, beyond towns, farms and cities, no inorganic fertilizers, pest sprays or chemicals are found, and for this reason, nature and wildlife thrive.

'To create a native landscape, avoid pesticides and chemicals at all costs,' says Valeria Nyman, garden expert and Chief Product Officer at Taim.io, a platform that empowers people to grow their own vegetables.

'They are the kryptonite to beneficial bugs and insects. Remember that everything works in a cycle, so removing the bugs from your yard with harmful sprays will impact frogs, birds and other animals.'

For this reason, consider removing chemicals from your gardening jobs this coming year. Instead, consider organic approaches and permaculture gardening, 'focusing on working with nature rather than against it.'

There are many different permaculture gardening projects that can help to create a more sustainable and thriving backyard, some small and some big. For example, simply using organic mulch and compost is a good start. Organic compost is available from Walmart. Alternatively, you can read up on the no-dig gardening method, which avoids breaking up, lifting or turning the soil to improve soil health and structure with minimal effort.

Maximize wildlife in your plot

(Image credit: Getty Images/CarolinaBirdman )

Finally, in any native landscape, you want to include as many wildlife garden ideas in your yard as possible. 'Think about different ways to attract pollinators and birds,' says Valeria Nyman.

'Why not add perches, birdhouses, bee and bug hotels to help increase biodiversity in your plot,' Valeria adds. 'On that note, consider dead wood piles. A fallen log or brush pile becomes a hotel for critters like beetles, and lived-in gardens are very on trend right now.

'In addition, think about water sources,' Valeria says. 'A pond would be ideal, but if you do not have the space, a simple birdbath can turn your yard into a rest stop for different species. This is particularly important for traveling birds, notably the hummingbird migration. Mini pond kits are available to order from Walmart.

If you are keen to observe wildlife in your yard and want to take high-resolution images, consider investing in bird feeder cameras this year. This subtle but effective technology allows you to feed and encourage birds in your yard, while also enjoying photographs to share with family and friends. Birdfy feeder cameras are available to order from Walmart.

FAQs

How can I make my small balcony a native landscape?

Even in small spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, you can create a native landscape. In fact, in these spaces where the wind and sun can prove challenging, using native plants is your best chance of success. I recommend opting for native prairie planting that can handle fluctuating weather patterns, sticking with a smaller palette that you can repeat for impact. Try combining native grasses like blue grama, combined with blue vervain and black-eyed Susan blooms. This long-lasting and low-maintenance design will help to encourage native pollinators to your plot, whatever the size.

For more inspiration on native planting, see our guide to the High Line of New York City. Often labeled as one of the most important modern garden developments of the last century, the High Line is not only a beautiful space, but it also includes many native species that can thrive despite frozen winters and searing summers in US hardiness zone 7.

What is guerrilla gardening? We take a closer look at this on-trend movement transforming urban landscapes

Holly Crossley — Sat, 23 Nov 2024 09:30:00 +0000

For city dwellers, spotting a flowerbed amongst a sea of concrete can seriously lift the spirits, especially for those who don’t have much outdoor space of their own. I live in a high-rise apartment and can certainly vouch for this; seeing a border of wildflowers alongside a sidewalk will always brighten my day. These cheery blooms may have been planted by the local council. But, they could also be the work of a guerrilla gardener equipped with a ‘seed bomb’ or two.

If you’re unfamiliar with the term, guerrilla gardening is all about planting things out in the big wide world (in other words, not as part of your backyard ideas). ‘Though unauthorized (and in some cases illegal), it’s driven by community spirit and a desire to improve city landscapes,’ says Anna Ohler, the owner of Bright Lane Gardens nursery.

Such unauthorized planting can call for covert measures, like the aforementioned ‘seed bombs’ – small pellets of seed mixes thrown into disused areas. Other guerrilla gardeners opt for a more brazen approach: getting stuck in with a traditional fork and spade. The concept has been around for a long time, all over the world, but social media has helped it capture more people’s attention of late.

The reasons behind guerrilla gardening

Guerrilla gardening can transform bare and neglected patches (Image credit: Adrian Turner / Alamy Stock Photo)

‘The motivations behind it can vary depending on who’s undertaking the act,’ says Justin Hancock of Costa Farms. ‘It could be something as simple as beautifying a view, as altruistic as trying to improve a neighborhood, or even as an act of defiance or rebellion.’

There can also be huge benefits for local insects, birds, and other wildlife. As Anna points out, by planting along roadsides and in neglected areas, guerrilla gardeners can turn forgotten spaces into vibrant native habitats. Planting resilient native species, like wildflowers, can greatly increase the natural diversity of those places, she says, adding how creating 'pollinator corridors' along pathways can further enhance biodiversity.

Larger-scale community gardens can provide a place for people to reconnect with nature, grow fresh food, and enjoy the mental health benefits of gardening – or ‘green therapy’. The Bowery Houston Farm and Garden in New York, which was built on a neglected lot, is a well-known example of this type of project. Now known as the Liz Christy Community Garden, it was created by the Green Guerillas, a group founded in the early 1970s by Liz Christy, Amos Taylor and Martin Gallent – radicals of their time. The garden eventually became the first community garden approved by the city, and is still open to visitors today.

The Liz Christy Community Garden (Image credit: New York City / Alamy Stock Photo)

Green Guerillas is also still active as a nonprofit organization, supporting community gardens with resources such as seed and tool libraries and providing internships for youth development.

Guerrilla gardening today

Seed bombs are a popular technique for guerrilla gardening (Image credit: miriam-doerr / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

Guerrilla gardening is a pretty hot topic on social media. As I write this, the hashtags #seedbombs and #guerillagardening have 31,000 and 41,100 posts on Instagram respectively, showcasing all sorts of ‘how-to’ tutorials and inspiring examples.

With a TikTok following of over 80,000, London-based Ellen Miles is part of this influential online movement, helping to inspire a whole new generation of guerrilla gardeners. In her book Get Guerrilla Gardening (published by Dorling Kindersley Limited), she writes: ‘I believe we have a right to engage with the land we live on, and a responsibility to, too.’

As a comprehensive guide, her book is packed with advice for getting involved, from tips on how to water plants in a guerrilla garden to step-by-step instructions for making ‘moss graffiti’. There’s even advice for how to best avoid getting into trouble with the law.

The legalities of guerrilla gardening are indeed something to consider, and perhaps what puts many people off the idea in the first place. Of course, while it may not be guerrilla gardening in the traditional sense, asking for permission before you start planting (even if it’s to simply sow some seeds) can help to prevent problems down the line.

Get Guerrilla Gardening: A Handbook for Planting in Public Places

Ellen Miles' guide provides all the essentials on how to get involved with guerrilla gardening, and features plenty of success stories, too.

FAQs

What are good plants for guerrilla gardening?

Native plants are best for supporting local wildlife, and are more likely to thrive in local climate conditions. Likewise, drought-tolerant options have a better chance of flourishing in areas less likely to receive regular maintenance. It’s important for guerrilla gardeners to avoid planting invasive plants – these can quickly get out of control.

Why is it called guerrilla gardening?

‘Guerrilla’ usually relates to someone within an unofficial, independent group fighting against a larger, official one. The term ‘guerrilla gardening’ was coined by the Green Guerillas group in the 1970s.

While greener outdoor spaces offer plenty of positives, growing more plants indoors also has its merits, particularly for those living in built-up areas. Our guides on apartment gardening and balcony gardening have lots of tips to get you inspired.

How to landscape with moss in your yard – 5 unique ways to grow this versatile plant outdoors

Tenielle Jordison — Sat, 06 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000

When curating your outdoor space, it's wise to include plenty of evergreen plants that will offer interest all year round. For something low-maintenance and guaranteed to keep your space green even in colder months, opt for moss.

Growing moss hasn't always been fashionable but gardeners are increasingly welcoming it as a versatile plant. There are so many backyard ideas that you can incorporate moss into - whether it's just a small feature or using it across a larger piece of land. Moss can uplift your space in a range of ways, it just takes a bit of creativity.

We've spoken to gardening experts to find out more about how to landscape with moss, and they gave us their suggestions for creating beautiful planting with this shade-loving plant.

(Image credit: Photos by R A Kearton via Getty Images)

5 ways to landscape with moss in your yard

Moss will stay happy, so long as you keep moisture levels up. It can cope with some sunlight but does best in shadier environments. This makes it such a valuable plant to use in different spaces of your backyard, offering its bright green hue in your garden throughout the year. In fact, there are even different types of moss to choose from. Here are 5 different ways to incorporate moss in your backyard.

1. Use moss for ground cover

(Image credit: Ali Majdfar via Getty Images)

This first idea is the most obvious choice for using moss outdoors. Its low-maintenance nature and ability to be trampled on makes moss one of the best evergreen ground cover plants.

In fact, moss is a great choice for ground cover plants for shade because it does best in lower light conditions. That's why many choose to grow moss beneath trees and darker corners - plus, its vibrancy can help brighten up these areas.

'Moss prefers acidic, moist soil conditions, so it's crucial to choose the appropriate species for your climate and soil type,' notes gardening expert, Jana McDaniel of First Saturday Lime.

Moss grows best across US hardiness zone 4 to zone 8 and if you are going to grow it directly on the ground, it's key to make sure your soil type can support it. Using this soil test from Amazon can help you determine the pH level of the soil in your yard.

2. Grow moss between paving stones

(Image credit: mtreasure via Getty Images)

As well as using moss on a vast area of your yard, it's can also be used as a filler plant. Using moss between paving slabs is a great way to make your garden path look more appealing and softens harder garden features.

It makes a green alternative to using chippings and can unite the more heavily planted areas of your yard with harder landscaping. In fact, using moss between paving is also a great way to incorporate plants among stone without weeds, saving you a job of removing weeds from pavers.

'You can also create winding moss-covered paths through your garden,' suggests Jana. 'This adds a touch of whimsy and a sense of adventure,' she adds.

In a similar way to creating paths through lawn, you can lay moss as a walkable ground cover plant for paths in your yard.

3. Grow moss in rock gardens

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Another way to use moss as a filler plant is by incorporating it in the crevices and surfaces of rock gardens. The bright green contrasts strikingly with the darker color of rock, making it one the most effective plants for a rockery.

This will work especially well if you are creating a shady rock garden, where moss can thrive in a dark, damp environment. 'You want to make sure the rock garden has a smooth surface for moss. Make sure it's in a shady area out of direct sunlight,' notes Jamie Mitri, moss expert and founder and CEO of Moss Pure.

What's more, there are so many ways to build a rockery, so you can use moss in this way no matter what space you have available. You could even try making a mini rock garden in a container, like with this concrete planter from Amazon.

'You should use containers that will allow some ventilation for the moss. A popular option is to cover plant pots and soil with moss around it,' says Jamie.

4. Use moss in vertical planting

(Image credit: Naomi Rahim via Getty Images)

If you want to landscape with moss for impact, use it for vertical gardening and create a living wall. This can often be a beautiful feature for patio areas and outdoor living rooms, adding unique texture to these spaces.

'This technique involves attaching moss mats or plugs to a suitable backing material, such as wire mesh or burlap, and keeping them consistently moist,' says Jana.

It can be difficult initially, but creating a vertical garden is a fun and rewarding project to take on. You might find that using something like this wall planter from Amazon can help you set up your vertical garden. Just take care to keep your vertical moss well-watered so that it doesn't crisp up and lose its color.

Moss is also known for its air purifying qualities, which is why many also grow it as an air cleaning indoor plant. By using it in vertical gardening, moss can help make your outdoor seating areas feel fresh and welcoming to guests.

5. Hang kokedama as outdoor decorations

(Image credit: Getty Images/Prostock-Studio)

Not technically landscaping, but for a touch of class in your yard take influence from Japanese gardens. Moss is used throughout Japanese planting, but one of the most charming ideas is to make kokedama.

Kokedama is a traditional Japanese solution to plants for hanging baskets. It involves making a ball of soil with a plant growing out of it and then wrapping the ball with moss. It can be used indoors or outdoors and adds a naturalistic touch to suspended plants.

It's easy to make your own kokedama with this sheet of moss from Amazon, or you can use kits like this kokedama kit from Walmart.

There are plenty of plants that can be grown in kokedama, but take care to move it to a larger moss ball as it grows bigger. It's also wise to keep your kokedama moss well-hydrated by misting it often to help maintain its color.

FAQs

Why has my moss turned brown?

Moss will turn brown if it isn't in the right growing conditions. The main cause of moss discoloration is a lack of moisture, as these plants really thrive in damp environments. This is particularly a risk if you are growing moss in a container where it will dry out quicker. The best thing to do is to keep your moss in a moist environment, misting it regularly to boost humidity in the air around it.

Don't underestimate the value of landscaping with moss in your yard. This beautiful green plant can brighten up the darkest corners of your outdoor space and can be used in a range of unique garden features.

If you want to start using moss more in your gardening, explore our expert guide to growing moss indoors and use it to spruce up your interiors.

How to make a front yard more inviting – 6 real life examples from landscape designers

Lisa Hallet Taylor — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 14:00:40 +0000

If you've worked hard on improving your backyard, your eye may now be fixed on how to make a front yard more inviting.

And it's not just about getting a perfect lawn. In urban and suburban areas, homeowners are redesigning their front plots to create privacy with low walls or native plants; as sunny spots to grow herbs, flowers and vegetables; and to gain extra living space by building patios or decks.

Originally, the curb-appeal concept entailed painting your house, making repairs, and landscaping your front yard to attract possible homebuyers and to hopefully make your neighbors happy.

Now, a truly inviting front yard should not only reflect the architectural design of a house, it should also be a reflection of those who live inside.

We have profiled the work of six landscape designers to showcase their real life projects and demonstrate how front yards have evolved beyond cookie-cutter turfed lawns, to well-planned, stylish layouts.

Creating a useable and inviting space in your front yard

If you think it’s time to rethink your front yard, the possibilities are vast. Reconfiguring your space to grow fresh food, promote wildlife, or for a better environment are great reasons to renovate your front yard. Or perhaps you just want to turn that dull space into a low maintenance front yard and boost its curb appeal.

1. Go green to create a lush entry

Keep your front yard classic with a traditional lawn and path design (Image credit: David Morello Garden Enterprises)

As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Houston, Texas, the Heights boasts a charming mix of Victorians, bungalows, and brick cottages. The owners of a cottage tasked David Morello Garden Enterprises (DMGE) with a remodel that would make them feel more 'at home'.

In just three months, DMGE transformed the outdoor spaces, making the inviting front yard walkway lush and green with plants that soften the entrance.

The team found it a challenge to design a year-round garden with low-maintenance front-yard plants that would be able to withstand Houston’s summers, which are hot, humid, and can be oppressive.

Meeting the requirements were redbud trees like the Cercis occidentalis var. texensis; Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata); Japanese boxwood hedges (Buxus microphylla); Sunshine ligustrum (Ligustrum sinense 'Sunshine’) with year-round golden foliage; and cardamom-leaf ginger (Alpinia nutans). The vivid green lawn is St. Augustine (Stenotaphrum secundatum).

Other Houston-tolerant choices include wood ferns and foxtail ferns, lilyturf (Liriope muscari), irises, and dwarf yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria 'Nana’). Three terracotta pots changed-out with annuals provide seasonal color.

Working with a budget, DMGE used fieldstone set in mortar for the front landing, while blackstar gravel (basalt) was used on the concrete driveway and service areas. Planting beds are delineated with brown steel garden edging, which help to contain the soil, mulching, and plants.

Palmetto® St. Augustine Grass Plugs | ~~Was $89.99~~, now $79.19 at Nature Hills

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2. Add striking containers to a front porch garden

Combine gravel and large planters for a low-maintenance front yard (Image credit: Gardendigs)

Gravel garden ideas can be a smart choice if you prefer the idea of a low maintenance front yard. The landscaping of this house in Tacoma, Washington, designed by Gardendigs, includes rainbow rock with inset rectangular concrete pavers.

Architectural tall black planters provide a nice contrast to the white porch and are filled with shade-loving Mahonia (Mahonia 'Soft Caress') and the evergreen Japanese aralia (Fatsia japonica) try Jiarui - Green Fatsia Japonica at Walmart.

Broad-leafed plants like the aralia paired with architectural planters help to increase their visual impact from the curb or street. Anything smaller or more delicate would get lost.

It's important to pay attention to the location of your container gardening ideas and work out whether they are more suited to shade, sun, or a combination of both. For curb appeal, use the same or similar planters to avoid a mismatched look. Continuity is also a good rule for the plants that go in the containers.

3. Plant between pavers

Use planting to soften your front yard (Image credit: Bosler Earth Design)

This Los Angeles front garden is bursting with colorful succulents and flowers, with pockets of planting added throughout the space to soften the effect of the hardscaping.

A welcoming pathway leading from the street to the front door is made of flagstone with tough ground cover plants, in this case silver carpet (Dymondia margaretae), between the pavers to soften the look.

Bosler Earth Design planted with future growth in mind. 'I always design for 80 per cent of the plant’s full growth and space accordingly,' says Catherine Bosler.

Her main goal was to turn a thirsty green lawn into a colorful cohesive landscape that would save on water usage. The palette consists of mauve, yellow, greens, burgundy, and hints of orange and blue.

Primarily a mix of Australian and South African plants (which grow well in Southern California), the garden includes purple fernleaf acacia (Acacia baileyana ‘Purpurea’), pincushions (Leucospermum), kangaroo paws, euphorbias, and blue fescue. A clever mix of succulents finishes the overall scheme to great effect.

4. Add a front deck

A front yard you'll want to spend time in (Image credit: Luciole Design)

The backyard of this one-story ranch-style house located in California’s Central Valley lacked any workable outdoor living spaces, so the homeowners asked the Sacramento-based firm of Luciole Design to incorporate some deck ideas on the front porch instead.

With a fresh start and amended clay soil, Luciole used a mix of gray fescue; shrubby, dark green germander (Teucrium chamaedrys); strappy New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax); and two kinds of flax lilies: Dianella tasmanica 'Variegata' and D. revoluta ‘Coolvista’. Underneath is soft brown bark mulch. A patch of turf was planted for the kids to play on.

Concrete paths were poured to flow logically from the street and driveway to the front door, while leaving room for outdoor seating on the front deck. A wood bench and horizontal-slat fences at various heights create privacy for the deck along with consistency in hardscape materials.

5. Create a tropical oasis

Make a front yard more inviting with a partially obscured view (Image credit: Matthew Giampietro)

After an island vacation, everyone wants to recreate that feeling of paradise in their own yards with some eye-catching tropical garden ideas. Unfortunately, most of those exotic plants will only grow indoors, if you’re lucky. That is, unless you live in South Florida, which is home to a tropical climate.

For the front yard landscaping ideas in this Miami plot, landscape architect Matthew Giampietro designed pathways lined with colorful tropicals that lead to a private front patio. Horizontal wood-slat fencing and gates provide some necessary front yard privacy.

In addition to assorted palms, which thrive in this environment, Giampietro carefully considered the landscaping around trees, opting for a stunning mix of colorful bromeliads, ornamental grasses, birds of paradise (Stretlitzia), crotons (Codiaeum variegatum), Chinese fan palms (Livistona chinensis), philodendrons, and variegated or shell ginger (Alpinia zerumbet), among many others.

The paved patio features modern outdoor chairs surrounded by beds filled with smooth river rocks, small flowering trees, fragrant flowers, and palms, for a secluded tropical home-based getaway.

6. Incorporate a space for socializing

Welcome visitors with an entertaining space in your front yard (Image credit: Lavender Landscape Design Company)

Where space allows, a large front yard can offer the opportunity to create additional entertaining zones. The homeowners of this home in Arcadia, Arizona, hired Lavender Landscape Design Co. of Tempe to design a patio where they could socialize with neighbors.

Many aspects of the original yard remain, including the lawn and some of the brick paving, which became a front garden wall for newly installed silver travertine front yard paving idea. The patio is open but enclosed by a low iron fence and an entry gate.

Outdoor heating in the form of a rectangular brick veneer fire pit take center stage in the new layout, while the existing stone veneer on the home’s exterior was replaced with brick veneer to unify the look. Whilst front yard lighting creates ambience after dark.

A clean and modern planting palette includes waxleaf privet (Ligustrum japonicum), dwarf yaupon holly, winter gem boxwood (Buxus sinica), Texas mountain laurel (Sophora secundiflora), fruitless olive trees (Oleo europaea), and several varieties of roses, including Lady Banks, white iceberg, and burgundy iceberg.

FAQs

What plants look good in the front yard?

Start with foundation plants that are evergreens or at least standing throughout most of the seasons. These might be one of two trees, or passing by in a car or on foot. There are no sure-bet plants that will give you a dazzling yard. However, there are some things to consider when you go plant shopping:

Go with natives, which means plants that are indigenous to your region and grow naturally in uninhabited areas. Check with your local university or a gardening club or society for suggestions.
Start with foundation plants that are evergreens or at least standing throughout most of the seasons. These might be one or two trees for front yards trees for front yards, shrubs, or ornamental grasses. Usually, they are planted near the house, walls, fences, paths, or hardscape.
Foundation plants enhance and sometimes repeat your home’s architectural style. For example, unfussy plants with simple lines and a sculptural quality – like some succulents or sub-tropicals – complement a modern or mid-century modern home, while roses and delicate flowering perennials would look out of place.
Set a goal to have something in bloom throughout the year for season. This might take some research but is worth the time and effort.
A lush look can be beautiful, but try breaking up the landscape by incorporating hardscape features, such as an entry path from the street or the door, a small patio, stones and boulders, wood fencing, or stone garden walls.
Repeat plants for continuity rather than using your front yard as a test site for a vast mix of seedlings and non-natives. Also strive for continuity in form, texture, and color.
Even devout gardeners get busy, so look for low maintenance ornamental grasses, succulents, shrubs, and perennials. You can save the dirty work for the backyard.

If you are lucky enough to start building a new front yard with a clean slate, consider hiring a garden designer or landscape architect to create a plan.

You can have a look at our guide on how much does a garden designer cost for some handy hint on getting started.

Cameron Diaz uses this vertical planting trick to hide her wall – and landscape designers say we should do the same

megan.slack@futurenet.com (Megan Slack) — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 11:00:33 +0000

It's no secret that we're slightly envious of Cameron Diaz's Beverly Hills residence: a quietly luxurious farmhouse complete with a white marble kitchen and high-ceilinged living space. There's a lot to feel influenced by – but arguably, nothing is quite as inspiring as her backyard – where the actress experiments with a clever vertical garden trick.

In her yard, Cameron has planted a collection of tall olive trees, all of which climb up her otherwise conventional gray-painted exterior wall. While we admit that the wall does not deserve to be labeled as 'unsightly,' it would be significantly less interesting without the vertical planting that adds lush interest against the blank backdrop.

In strategically planting trees in front of the wall, Cameron has discreetly turned a conventional space into something of a talking point – and landscape experts say we can easily do the same.

A post shared by Cameron Diaz (@camerondiaz)
A photo posted by on

'When it comes to hiding an unsightly wall, using a vertical plant is a fantastic way that can greatly enhance the appearance of your outdoor space,' says Nashville-based landscape expert Gene Caballero.

How to recreate Cameron Diaz's vertical planting trick

Cameron has opted for olive trees in her Californian backyard, but Gene says there are many other options that will thrive in all climates. The plant that comes out on top? The climbing hydrangea.

'One of the best plants to consider for hiding an ugly wall is the climbing hydrangea. This plant features beautiful foliage and clusters of white flowers, creating a stunning visual display,' he says.

'The climbing hydrangea has a vine-like growth habit and can be trained to climb and cover the wall effectively. It adheres to surfaces using aerial rootlets, ensuring secure attachment. This plant is particularly suitable for partial shade to full shade conditions and thrives in well-draining soil.' Our favorite climbing hydrangeas are in stock at Garden Goods Direct below.

Climbing Hydrangea | $27.95 on Garden Goods Direct

It's easy to fall for climbing hydrangeas – with their creamy white lace-cap flower clusters that sit among deep green foliage. These vines will add a distinctive personality to any yard while hiding any walls we want to keep out of sight. View Deal

Alternatively, if we're looking for a plant with a more fiery color scheme, Gene recommends the Virginia Creeper, available here on Nature Hills.

'This vine has lush green leaves that transform into shades of red, orange, and purple in fall, creating a visually stunning backdrop,' he comments. 'The Virginia Creeper is a fast-growing plant that can cover a wall with its dense foliage.' The plant also adapts well to different light conditions, meaning it can thrive in various soil types nationwide.

'In my experience, these plants have proven to be successful choices for hiding unsightly walls. Their ability to climb and cover vertical surfaces, coupled with their attractive foliage and adaptability, make them ideal for transforming an eyesore into a beautiful feature in your outdoor space.'

Should I landscape my backyard before selling? Experts reveal the pros and cons

Madison Moulton — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 10:00:48 +0000

Q: I'm planning to sell my home this year, but my outdoor space isn't looking as good as it could. I'm not sure if it's worth my time and effort to give it a makeover, plus I'm worried that I'll be spending money unnecessarily. Is it worth it?

A: Selling a home is a stressful process. From maintenance to worrying about buyers and managing costs, it's easy to see why sellers want to get their homes sold as soon as possible. To do that, however, you should always consider the appeal of your outdoor space.

Before potential buyers even step foot inside your home, they will experience your yard first. A few carefully selected backyard landscaping ideas can make a big impression that helps get your home sold. But, it does come with a few downsides like cost and maintenance that need to be considered too. These pros and cons from expert realtors and landscapers will help you determine whether you should landscape before selling, and how to get it right.

Pros of landscaping before selling

1. Curb appeal

First impressions matter. Even if you’ve spent years perfecting the inside of your home or months curating it for sale, the first thing buyers will see is your front yard landscaping. A neatly manicured landscape leading up to your front door is the best first impression you could possibly make, setting the tone for the rest of a showing.

This is also helpful if you’re trying to attract buyers locally. ‘If they drive by and they see that you have spent time and energy getting the outside to look nice, they’re going to assume that the inside looks just as nice too,’ says Jane from Green Biz Nursery.

You also want that same feeling to continue out to your backyard. Once viewers have been won over by your front yard and the interior of your home, you don't want the backyard to ruin those all-important first impressions.

2. Increase in value

When considering any improvements to your home before selling, value is top of mind. The more value you can add to your home before you put it on the market, the higher the valuation will be. You’ll also see far more interest from buyers who are typically looking for a low-maintenance, fuss-free property.

Realtors agree that basic landscaping does increase the value of your property, sometimes up to 12% according to realtor Ryan Poppe. This is a large margin compared to some other home investments, increasing your home’s value with fewer costs.

Updating your outdoor space can increase the value of your home significantly (Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

3. Draw more buyers

The goal of prepping your home and backyard for sale is to attract as many buyers as possible. More buyers lead to better offers and quicker sales, avoiding that limbo period of months without any interest. Great landscaping is one way to draw more buyers – especially those that place a high value on outdoor space.

‘Homes with landscaping that has been done well spend less time on the market because buyers typically don’t want to buy homes that need a lot of work,’ says Ryan Poppe.

4. Improve your space

The pros of landscaping aren’t completely buyer-focused. Landscaping can also benefit the seller too.

Selling a home is complex, and made even more stressful when you’re trying to complete interior projects while living in the home. A well-landscaped backyard can become a wonderful retreat at this time.

There is also no way to be sure of how quickly your home will sell. It may take several months or longer between the selling process and the transfer period. While landscaping can help speed up the process, it can also make your home more enjoyable in your last weeks or months there.

Features such as a modern patio and sleek fire pit can be a big draw for potential buyers (Image credit: Caitlin Atkinson / Design: GardenArt Group)

Cons of landscaping before selling

1. Cost

The most obvious con to landscaping before selling is the cost. Realtors (and landscapers) agree that spending tons of money on landscaping a backyard before selling is counterproductive. Besides reducing your potential profit from sale, it could also be changed completely by the new owners, meaning that the money you spent ultimately goes to waste.

‘When it comes to landscaping, it's important to take a business-minded approach to what monies you’re going to be spending before you put your home on the market,’ says realtor David Sturm of Sturm Property Group. Keep it simple by focusing on maintenance, tidying and decluttering your backyard over bigger, more expensive projects.

There are plenty of budget backyard ideas that can visually improve your space without having to cost thousands of dollars. Adding some inexpensive backyard lighting or repairing and painting a fence can have a big impact, and can be done with minimal cost.

2. Time

Unlike other home projects that often have instant results once completed, landscaping projects need some time to settle in before they look their best. As plants take a while to fill out and establish themselves in a flower bed, you’ll need to start landscaping a few months in advance to reap the full aesthetic benefits.

According to realtor Jordan Matin, ‘you should have enough time and a plan to make everything look right. This will also make you avoid leaving the impression that you had the last-minute rush to put things in order.’

If you don't have the time to replant entire flower beds, container gardening can be a more effective way to give your backyard an instant boost. A few carefully selected planter boxes on your patio can introduce some much needed color and scent, and even draw attention away from other areas of your backyard that you may wish to hide.

It can take several months for flower beds to fill out and come into bloom, so you shouldn't see this as a quick fix when selling your home (Image credit: Jacky Hobbs/Future)

3. Effort

Ideally, you’ll start landscaping a few months before putting your home on the market. Then, it will take a few months to find a buyer and begin the transfer process. During this time, you’ll need to maintain your newly landscaped garden, adding another task to your already long to-do list.

Salisbury Landscaping adds that these things often take longer than expected. ‘Consider whether you’ll have the resources to maintain your new landscape between the project end date and your expected time of sale. Keep in mind that delays can always occur during the sales process, so be prepared to maintain the landscape a little longer than you’d like.’

4. Differing tastes

Landscaping often comes down to personal preference, especially for larger projects with more unique changes. You don’t want to invest in a complex landscaping project that you love, only to find that it puts off buyers. The fewer changes potential buyers feel they need to make, the better.

Landscapers often recommend simple maintenance and tidying rather than complete overhauls of a space. Installing backyard paving, edging and plants that have wide appeal and make your yard look neater are all options to consider. Avoid big structural changes or bright pops of color that cost more and can turn buyers off.

The final verdict – keep it simple

Landscaping a backyard before selling your home is certainly worth the effort. ‘Almost every real estate agent will recommend that homeowners do some form of landscaping before selling. Agents want to see homes sell, and landscaping is one of the most important yet simplest strategies for getting buyers to come see the home,’ says Ryan Poppe.

But the key is to keep it simple. Don’t spend too much money on complex projects that will only add more stress to the process. Basic maintenance and tidying are all you need to increase your curb appeal and up the value of your home before selling.

How to landscape a backyard – expert advice and ways to create your perfect garden

jennifer.ebert@futurenet.com (Jennifer Ebert) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 15:24:29 +0000

When it comes to how to landscape a backyard, a bit of time spent on planning and designing will help you release the full potential of your garden, both visually and for practical considerations.

Consider how you would like to use the space as part of your backyard ideas. Is it for alfresco dining and relaxing in, are you planning for it to be filled with flowers and foliage, structure from evergreens to create a living picture to be viewed from inside. or a more simplified, contemporary space, perhaps with a statement, soothing water feature?

There are many backyard landscaping ideas you can draw on, and the materials used – from paving, aggregates and decking, to decorative edging and the hard materials employed for raised beds and walls – add texture and character to a garden, marking out the structure and leading the eye through the landscape.

You need to give some thought to the practicalities, such as areas for backyard storage, and take careful note of the microclimates, sun and light, wind protection and your boundaries. It’s a good idea to allow yourself a year to fully observe the backyard in each season, and understand how you like to use the space year round, before you make big changes.

To help you realize your ideal outdoor space, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide packed with expert advice giving the lowdown on every aspect of how to landscape a backyard.

How to landscape a backyard

(Image credit: Courtesy of Joseph Richardson Landscape Architecture)

When it comes to how to landscape a backyard, areas of hard landscaping, or structure from evergreen shrubs, will create the bones of your garden. You need think about how to harmoniously link the inside of your home to the outside. Do you want the style and colors to complement with the style of your property and the internal living space, or create a complete contrast?

If you are starting from scratch, you may need to hire a landscape designer to do the hard landscaping to ensure drainage is in place and paving is done expertly.

1. Assess the space

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

When you're planning a garden, thinking of your backyard as an outdoor room makes it easier to design using similar principles to interior design.

'Look at the plot’s size and shape, the boundaries and surroundings. Consider whether it is overlooked by neighbors, if there are any eyesores to camouflage behind privacy hedges, or if you need to incorporate garden screening ideas to screen the plot from passers-by. These are just some of the questions to consider,' advises gardening writer Leigh Clapp.

'It’s a good idea to make a list of your preferences and sort them into an order of priority. A mood board of images and ideas of the style and look you are after can be a great help. Decide what is practical and do-able given your time and lifestyle; be honest and realistic.' she adds.

Try marking out the space, either on a sketch plan or with string in situ, for example giving enough room for outdoor seating ideas or for outdoor dining. Whether you have space to create areas within the plot, or just one room, will help to visualize the end result.

The site itself is crucial and will affect the design. ‘Be aware of the soil type and areas where the sun shines in the site area,’ says multi award-winning landscape designer Jack Dunckley.

‘These specific zones of full sun, partial shade and shade will determine where and which varieties of plants should be placed for the most successful outcome,’ he adds.

2. Take into account practicalities

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp / Kate Gould Gardens)

The key to success when it comes to how to landscape a backyard is to create a space that is both beautiful and practical, satisfying the occasionally competing elements of form and function.

'The hard landscaping really needs to be designed with a material that can tolerate the aspect,' advises garden designer Kate Gould.

'It is asking a lot of a stone or wood not to naturally turn green with algae in areas of low light,' she adds, so bear this in mind if you have a north facing garden or a narrow garden which are likely to have more shady areas, and think about the long term maintenance of surfaces that could turn into slip hazards over time.

'The power of nature can only be defied so far, but with careful selection of products the on-going maintenance of the scheme, these can be minimised. Think low maintenance, rather than no maintenance and a happy balance will be achieved,' adds Kate.

In the above design by Kate Gould as a sloped backyard idea formal elegance and the change of levels with hard landscaping increases the feeling of space in a small garden by adding depth while the structural and low maintenance planting looks elegant even in winter. The natural stone paving will weather gently and is easy to maintain.

3. Remember less is often more

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Trying to achieve too much in a backyard can sometimes result in a dilution of the overall effect. 'Pare down the design, assess the absolute minimum that you need and work from there,' advises Kate Gould.

It is hard when we have inspiration from all around not to include elements of many things that we see and like, but the result may be too overcrowded and clumsy.

'It is helpful to draw up a grid to scale and then cut out the items you want to include, such as raised beds, seating and dining spaces, flower bed ideas, focal points, such as a water feature, and other structures including pergola ideas, then experiment with them until you are happy with the layout design,' advises Leigh Clapp.

An aesthetically pleasing whole is made of an array of elements. Avoid the desire to have a bit of this and a bit of that and try to ensure all the elements in your garden are in harmony.

4. Consider the design

(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton)

How to landscape a backyard depends on what you want from the space. A contemporary design, with hard landscaping a major feature, together with architectural plants might be preferable, or it could be the planting that is abundant and prominent.

If the latter is the case, should the look be formal with symmetry, straight lines and neat hedges? Or more informal with large borders, mixed color schemes and winding paths, such as in a cottage garden or naturalistic planting design?

‘What design aesthetic do you aspire to? This can be harder to define, but it is vital to understand the characteristics that will give your garden a special feel and help it to connect with your home and its wider surroundings,' says James Scott of The Garden Company.

It’s also vital to think about which features your backyard should contain, if space allows. If not, there are plenty of small back yard landscaping ideas to choose from.

List all the elements you want to include from lawns, patio ideas and deck ideas, through to outbuildings, a garden for growing veggies, pool ideas, play areas for kids, arches, arbors and pergolas. And the garden fence and garden wall ideas you prefer for boundaries and within the backyard to zone it.

(Image credit: The Garden Company)

In the design above, James Scott of The Garden Company uses stonework in neutral soft greys and buffs to help showcase the softscaping and be sympathetic to the planting palette.

Consider how large paved and decked areas need to be to accommodate dining furniture and seating for family and guests, or how much space is needed for family games, flower beds or for growing edible crops.

Areas of the backyard may need levelling if you looking at how to design a sloping garden, and you may need to bear in mind restrictions, such as some areas being subject to waterlogging, too. Take a look at existing trees, hedges or structures – it may be possible and desirable to incorporate them into the design, but they could be in the way.

5. Consider the different zones – and how to link them

(Image credit: Maitanne Hunt Gardens)

The initial ideas for a new garden are always focussed on the flow of the space. A sense of intrigue can be achieved by linking areas with romantic pathways and swathes of planting, for example.

The serene country garden shown above has been designed by Maïtanne Hunt of Maïtanne Hunt Gardens and Landscapes using fewer hard materials, but instead topiary and evergreen hedging to help promote biodiversity

In a country garden, continuity between the house and the garden is vitally important. This can be achieved by choosing materials in the garden that are sympathetic to the house and its architecture, such as slate, stone or timber, for example.

When garden zoning, take into account the light conditions and decide on what to include in the different areas of your garden.

The final jewel in the crown of your landscape design will be the planting, says Maïtanne Hunt: ‘You’ll want to select plants that provide year-round interest, such as evergreens, hedges, trees or topiary that give structure to a garden when perennials have died down.’

(Image credit: Maitanne Hunt Gardens)

In this design by Maïtanne Hunt, above, a backyard becomes an extension of the home, with zones for dining and relaxing, to be enjoyed all year round, surrounding by seasonal planting.

6. Decide on the professionals you’ll work with

(Image credit: Rob Cardillo Photography)

If you not too sure about how to landscape a backyard, you may wish to commission a landscape architect or garden designer. This profession is significantly different to other types of building construction and requires specialist knowledge.

It’s important to seek out a good landscaping company rather than regular builders, who may not be familiar with some of the ‘basics’ of building gardens rather than houses. It is also worth getting an idea of how much backyard landscaping costs.

Landscapers are trained in hard and soft landscaping skills, which essentially means that they can build the garden and also lay turf and plant the trees, shrubs and perennials that the garden designer has specified.

They could produce the plans for your backyard, manage the process, too, or design and construct, depending on the services offered and your preference.

Their professional experience could help you realize your dream backyard, but you will of course need to set aside a proportion of the budget if this is the route you’re going to take.

The Connecticut garden above was designed by Seattle-based Land Morphology.

Whether with a design from a professional or your own, the labor may be something you have the experience and confidence to take on.

Alternatively, if you're looking for backyard ideas on a budget, you might employ professionals to take on the preparatory work including clearing, any leveling, drainage, laying pavers and decks and so on, leaving you to lay the lawn and put in plants.

7. Clear the space

(Image credit: Tom Massey)

The backyard needs to be cleared before the work of creating the new design can begin. This could take the form of jobs such as removing weeds and any unwanted growth, but it might also mean taking away rubbish. Rubble and rocks can prevent plants from establishing.

‘What is cleared to make way for a new scheme is very site and project dependant, but it’s good to retain anything you can work with, such as existing trees,’ says Rae Wilkinson, MSGD.

'Weeds should be hand cleared and rubble or site soil used within the scheme rather than removing it where possible, thus retaining the sensitive balance of the soil and reducing carbon footprint,' which is also a sustainable garden idea.

Levelling the yard may be necessary, too, to create flat lawns, as well as provide a place for a patio or deck. Clever sloping garden ideas mean a severely sloping backyard can still look great. It may need a series of terraces, but these can have the benefit of adding interest to the design and zoning different areas.

8. Think outbuildings

(Image credit: Gabriel Ash)

Planning in adequate storage for your gardening toolkit is vital. Rather than keep it all in the garage, you may look for garden shed ideas to create dedicated storage when you’re landscaping a backyard, or, if space permits, garden building ideas.

A garden shed can be useful for tasks like collecting seeds, starting seedlings and dividing plants, so consider sizing up so there’s room to work as well as space to store.

A shed or garden building can also be a pretty feature in its own right, adding a focal point to the backyard that complements a home’s style and the materials from which it’s made. It can even introduce outside living space but with the benefit of shelter from the elements.

Be aware that you’ll need to check regulations locally before you put up a shed. In the US you may need a permit, and there may be restrictions in the UK, depending on where you live.

Greenhouse ideas allow you to create the optimum environment for growing vegetables, flowers and other plants. Greenhouses can be modest in size, or scaled up if space permits to fit cultivation requirements.

9. Choose appropriate materials

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

According to garden designer Cheryl Cummings, ‘Hard materials used in the garden need to sit well with the fabric of the house, and with the internal flooring if they are to flow seamlessly.

'They need to look appropriate to the setting and any existing garden materials, so for many reasons a locally sourced material, often stone, makes sense.’

Maïtanne Hunt suggests Corten steel for edging. ‘The rust-red, earthy tones of the steel blend well into rural projects.’

James Scott feels that neutral colours often work well. ‘Stone in soft greys and buffs will help to showcase the softscaping and be sympathetic to the planting color palette,’ he says.

10. Put in hard landscaping

(Image credit: Future / Brent Darby)

Hard landscaping takes in the structural features of a backyard, such as garden paths ideas, patios, decks, walls, garden fence ideas, garden edging, raised beds and more. Each landscaping element can be designed in a variety of materials.

The materials for a backyard landscaping project will often be suggested by the style of the outdoor space you’re planning, whether that’s more traditional or tends to the contemporary.

But as well as the style, think, too, about the durability and maintenance requirements of each to ensure they’re suitable for the time you can dedicate to tending your backyard, and the budget available in the long term.

For patios and garden path ideas, choose between pavers with more rustic style like those that resemble cobblestone or old brick, or opt for choices such as flagstones, natural stones that are suitable for outdoor use, and porcelain pavers.

For deck, composite and PVC boards can all be considered, and the best option will likely depend on funds available for landscaping. There are many deck color ideas and options for deck edging for creating a unique outdoor space with different deck planting ideas.

Be mindful, though, that initial landscaping cost should not be the only consideration as, depending on the wood, regular maintenance can be required, such as knowing how to remove mold from a wood deck, bringing extra costs over the lifetime of the deck.

Gravel garden ideas may suit a country-style backyard or a contemporary design, and is suitable for paths as well as larger areas.

While you’ll want to select a range of materials for the various hard landscaping elements of the backyard, bear the overall color palette in mind. You might want to combine browns and brick red shades for example, or choose a paler selection of materials.

‘Bright, light colors are the contemporary way to go when considering flooring in a modern design,’ says Jack Dunckley. ‘Creams and whites offer the perfect backdrop for features such as potted plants and luxury furniture. Lighter colors also give the illusion of a bigger space for small deck ideas and contrast beautifully with the rich red and browns of any brickwork used in a house or wall.’

11. Check the balance of soft and hard landscaping

(Image credit: Cheryl Cummings)

‘It’s important to balance any landscaping with the size of your house; the walls of a larger house present significant vertical hard surfaces,’ says Cheryl Cummings.

In the design above, Cheryl has planted soft mounds of grasses and flowering hummocks to cushion the edges of the path.

‘If there are large trees around the boundary or a big open view, the scale will mean that narrow paths and small plants will appear insignificant, so the paved surfaces need to be appropriate to the scale of the house and surroundings,’ she adds.

If, however, you are opting for a contemporary outdoor space then you may wish to include a higher percentage of hard landscaping, particularly for courtyard garden ideas.

12. Add the planting

(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton)

Introducing patio planting ideas is the highlight of the landscaping process for many. First, the beds will need to be outlined and mulch or compost used to improve the soil. For the lawn areas, lawn topsoil should be added first and then the sod or turf, or learn how to plant grass seed.

The mixture of plants, trees and shrubs will be determined by a whole host of factors including the local climate, the type of soil in your backyard, and its size.

‘The two things which are least considered and most significant are the details of the so-called aspect and drainage,’ says Barry Chambers MSGD.

‘Aspect is not simply the points of the compass. It is whether there is a tree or even shrub casting shade on a part of the border, or perhaps it is a large herbaceous plant so it will be casting a lot of shade in summer but none at all when dormant in winter,' he adds, in which case it would be necessary to explore the best shrubs for shade and shade plants or even woodland plants that would cope with the conditions.

‘Drainage is very important because what kills the most plants in winter is not the cold as such, it is the cold and wet. So plants are hardier in a well drained environment in general,' he adds.

If wet can’t be avoided, even with a raised surface, then marginals, pond plants or so called bi-modal plants – plants which can manage in flood or drought – are the only reliable options.

On the slip side, if the site is very dry and stony, then look to drought tolerant planting or those that are suited to mediterranean garden ideas.

13. Plan in a kitchen garden

(Image credit: Jamie Innes of Artisan Landscapes)

Although you may have the space for a large vegetable garden at some distance from the house, it’s nice to include beautiful kitchen garden ideas or a herb garden into the ornamental space, too, such as the design above by Jamie Innes of Artisan Landscapes.

Pottering among your own orderly set of raised beds before dinner and selecting a few homegrown herbs or vegetables can be a wonderful way to enjoy your garden – whether in the city or country.

14. Design in verticals

(Image credit: John Davies Landscaping)

Vertical elements are an important part of any backyard design. ‘They create more interest,’ says Ana Sanchez-Martin MSGD.

‘Without them, it often feels flat, literally and experientially. Vertical elements stimulate the eye to move up and down between the ground plane and the sky. They often help the garden feel larger because the more the eye has to travel between various points, the larger the brain will believe the space to be.

‘Vertical garden ideas also create shadows which move with the sun, bringing the time dimension into the experience of being in the garden,’ she adds.

‘They bring certain plants to eye level, head height and above-head height. There is nothing lovelier than looking up into the canopy of a tree and seeing the sun and the sky beyond the leaves. They help create partitions within a garden.’

There are a variety of ways to incorporate verticals into a backyard. Increasingly popular are living wall ideas, such as the design above by John Davies Landscapes, or what’s known as ‘vertical gardening’, which first saw urban buildings turned green with their façades covered in living plants. It’s a concept that’s reached residential backyards, especially in city locations where planting space is limited.

(Image credit: Annaick Guitteny)

Simpler than adding a living wall is fixing trellis ideas and growing climbing plants, including flowering climbers to bring color, fragrance and soft lines to the horizontal structure of a fence or wall. Pick from wood or metal, or consider a wire version for a modern backyard.

Don’t confine verticals to the edges of the backyard, though. Arbors can act as doorways through which to reach another zone of the space to add intrigue to the design and look spectacular with a blooming fragrant roses wreathed around them.

Alternatively or additionally, garden shade ideas, such as a pergola, will add a focal point and can make a seating or dining area more comfortable. Encouraging climbing plants to cover the structure will blend it into the backyard beautifully.

The interest they create isn’t the end of the attributes of vertical elements, however; if your backyard is overlooked, putting these in and growing plants up them can be a great garden privacy idea, allowing more freedom over where to position relaxing and dining spaces.

How do I layout my backyard?

To layout your backyard you can either decide to use a garden designer or create your backyard yourself. There are many decisions to be made regarding materials, so it pays to understand the pros and cons of each.

Your first priority will be to establish the functional spaces, from patios to paths. The expanse of an area and its use will dictate which materials are most suitable.

For instance, a hard standing for a table and chairs needs to be flat and stable, and you might want to keep granular aggregates such as gravel or bark away from the entrance of the house so they are not trampled inside.

Think about how materials combine to add color, texture and interest, and how they will interact with plants, and don’t forget how they will complement the house when viewed from the garden.

Check the ownership of every boundary when erecting fencing and walls. Where dividing lines are shared, by law you must involve the neighbor in the design decision and ask for their permission to go ahead in writing.

(Image credit: Future / Mark Bolton)

How can I make my backyard look nice?

To make your backyard look nice, sleek, smooth stone that continues inside the house is a chic option if you have a modern extension or folding doors, but it could look too harsh, butted straight up to a red brick period home or a rustic cottage.

There is no shortage of hard landscaping style ideas for gardens, from the charmingly rustic to something more sleek and modern, with everything in between.

In general, hard landscaping tends to be the star of modern backyard designs, and the range of materials suitable for such spaces is more extensive – mirror, metal, concrete and painted walls, to name a few.

But there are no rules to say that you could not consider using these in the most traditional herbaceous gardens as well. The trick is to create a single, homogenous design.

‘Simple, elegant detailing is often the key to a successful space,’ explains garden designer Robert Myers. ‘People often over-complicate design by putting too many ideas and patterns into a small space, making it look busy and fussy.’

What is the cheapest way to landscape a backyard?

The cheapest way to landscape a backyard is by being your own designer and contractor. But only take on what you can confidently achieve as mistakes can be costly to remedy.

Every construction project involves a fair degree of upheaval and expense so plan meticulously to make sure work goes as smoothly as possible.

After that, it’s a question of opting for less costly materials. For example, a patio or path laid using bricks in sand is a budget way to get a paved area. Laying gravel rather than paving can also bring savings. Consider, too, including less hard landscaping in the design and increasing the space dedicated to planting.

(Image credit: Future / Richard Powers)

How do you do a simple landscape?

To do a simple landscape, planting with evergreens to provide structure rather than hard landscaping it simpler. Being patient can also cut your backyard landscaping costs. If you can wait for plants to grow you’ll save compared to going for larger specimens.

A more relaxed backyard design could also prove a winner when it comes to cost-saving, as the accurate finish of a contemporary design involves extra labor.

How do I make my backyard look professionally landscaped?

To make your backyard look professionally landscaped plan in a focal point, such as yard art or garden fountain ideas, or a series of them, as a garden designer would.

This could also include a feature such as a pretty shed, or a living element, such as a tree or group of shrubs. The focal point should draw the eye just as it does in an interior.

Consider scale, too, for a professional look when it comes to how to landscape a backyard. Be aware of the eventual height and spread of what you plant so it doesn’t become out of proportion to the space. Equally, a bed of low blooms will look lost against an imposing house.

(Image credit: The Garden Company)

In the design above, James Scott of The Garden Company has used a sculpture to draw the eye through swathes of planting to this sheltered dining spot.

‘To work out if a planting scheme is successful, professionals ask themselves, "would this scheme work if it was a black and white photo?’ says UK garden designer Ana Sanchez-Martin.

‘A good tip regarding garden color schemes is that the hotter colors (oranges, reds, yellows) tend to concentrate in the summer in average climates and early fall months. Whereas you can find flowers in the cool range – blues, lilacs, pinks – almost all year round. So if you are looking for a longer seasonal display, choose cool colors.’

What is the average cost to landscape a yard?

It is hard to decipher a ballpark figure when it comes to the average cost to landscape a design as it depends on so many variables, not least the size of the site and materials used. On average, you can expect to pay between $2,000 – $30,000 onwards, depending on the size of your yard, the complexity of your design and the quality and durability of your chosen materials. Not forgetting the cost of labor.

(Image credit: Future / Annaick Guitteny)

Of all the aspects involved in creating a new garden, hard landscaping takes up the biggest proportion – usually about 75 per cent of the total project cost. If budget is an issue, it is possible to do the work in stages.

If you have a large space, or want an intricately-designed backyard, it is always recommended that you hire a landscape architect.

If you are planning to employ a professional to help with your project, it’s important to establish what level of service you require.

Garden designers and landscape designers are known by various names, which, confusingly, are often interchangeable.

Where domestic projects are concerned, if you are creating a new scheme from scratch or radically altering the structure of your garden, you can either employ a garden designer, or do the job yourself.

In both instances, the designer’s role is to look at the design as a whole, including the layout, structure and the planting, and to call in a landscape contractor – or landscaper – to deal with the hard landscaping features – the walls, beds and paths.

If you decide to take on the design job yourself, it is good to know that most landscape contractors can also help with some aspects of design, and in particular, advise you on the best use of space and the most suitable materials to use.

Does backyard landscaping add value to your home?

According to a trusted survey, having a well-designed backyard can add on upwards of $20,000 to your property price.

(Image credit: Future)

It is unsurprising that people are looking for more outdoor space since lockdown. 'Having a bigger garden or at least access to one was the number one thing that lockdown had changed for what buyers are now looking for in their next home,' the survey suggested.

How many deck boards will I need? Landscape experts advise

Stephanie Hendries — Sat, 30 Jul 2022 11:00:32 +0000

A smart deck can have a transformative effect on a backyard, reining in wild spaces and creating distinct zones for sitting and relaxing.

When it comes to building a deck, however, there are many factors to consider, from the size of the seating area to the type of planks you intend to use.

Before you embark on your bringing your deck ideas to life, you’ll need to understand the space and shape of the structure you are planning to build. You’ll also need to ask yourself one key question: how many deck boards will I need?

We have the guidance, considerations and calculations you need here.

How many deck boards will I need?

To calculate the deck boards, simply divide the width of the decked area by the width of the board and spacing to get the number of boards wide.

Measure the length of the deck, then multiply the length x width (in feet and inches) to get the square footage.

Don't forget to calculate and add in extra if you are building deck stairs.

You’ll also need to look at the board size and the spaces between the deck boards.

If you do choose to lay your boards in a diagonal or herringbone pattern, be aware that you will require more materials.

Wood decking can shrink, so the spacing should be no more than ⅛in if the wood has been treated with preservatives.

Deck boards come in a variety of sizes, however, the most common size is the standard 6-inch width deck board.

Once you have your total figure always add an extra 5-10% on for wastage; this will finally allow you to work out deck building costs, but you will also need to factor in the price for building a deck railing if this is part of the design.

Always try to buy deck boards from the same batch to ensure they are a consistent color and finish.

How many deck boards do I need for a 12x12 deck?

According to Home Depot, you need 29 12ft long deck boards for a 12x12 deck. However, we would always advise you do your calculations carefully yourself before buying.

How many deck boards do I need for a 10x10 deck?

You need 22 deck boards for a 10x10 deck. However, we would always advise you do your calculations carefully yourself before buying.

How do I calculate how much wood I need for a deck?

To calculate how much wood you need for a deck, first calculate number of boards to stretch across the width of the deck, then work out how many lengths you need. Multiply the totals.

If you are still hesitant, online tools, such as the deck board and materials calculator from Decks.com will help you confirm how many deck boards you will need.

Also, be sure to consider the type of timber you intend to use. There are a variety of styles possible, from narrow matchstick planks to broad timbers, and options to buy new pressure-treated lumber or reclaimed hardwood.

When you buy your materials, remember you’ll also need to purchase fixings, bolts and other hardware too.

This design technique spotted at Chelsea Flower Show is a must for small backyards

megan.slack@futurenet.com (Megan Slack) — Fri, 27 May 2022 11:00:28 +0000

RHS’ Chelsea Flower Show 2022 has offered us a host of design techniques and trends that will shape gardens far beyond the British capital. The event is a melting pot of backyard ideas for spaces of all sizes – whether you’re working with a balcony garden or have a spacious plot beyond your home. However, the latest technique to emerge from this year’s event is made with small spaces in mind.

The lesson comes from designers Darryl Moore and Adolfo Harrison, who created St Mungo’s Putting Down Roots Garden (pictured above and below) in collaboration with the charity.

While the garden itself was certainly not one of the smallest at the Chelsea Flower Show, it did showcase a clever diagonal line design technique that is perfect for making a small garden look bigger. And the best part? Diagonal lines are also at the peak of current garden trends – so you can emphasize your exteriors in style.

Using diagonal lines to accentuate small gardens

(Image credit: RHS / Neil Hepworth)

What does this small garden idea involve? According to the designer, it is all about how you use diagonal lines.

‘I really like diagonal shapes. They are dynamic, and they create a sense of movement through a space,’ Darryl shared with H&G. He used the pattern on both the fencing and floor to create a pathway and a sense of a journey through your garden. ‘We play with circles that are a bit more static – they are an anchor point. So, you have two different designs,’ Darryl says.

While diagonal lines can create the sense of a journey in a space, they also lead your eye upwards – opening the garden beyond the fencing into the space above. Garden design expert Phil Deakin from NeoTimber similarly emphasizes that you can cleverly use lines on your fencing to ‘take your eye upwards’ and consequently make the garden feel larger.

(Image credit: RHS / Neil Hepworth)

Alongside their ability to ‘extend’ a small garden, diagonal stripes feed into one of the biggest trends of the moment, according to Pinterest. The platform saw a 42% increase in interest in bold stripes, such as diagonals for 2022. Bringing this motif into your garden also allows you to celebrate maximalism in your garden landscaping ideas – no matter the size of the space.

‘Maximalism is in, so stripes can be pretty out there - don’t be afraid of breaking the rules, in some ways, that’s the point,’ adds Karen Yu, the Marketing & Product Strategy Manager at Zinus.

If you’re looking for a fashionable way to enhance your garden, Chelsea may have offered you the solution you desire.

How to create a Regency-inspired garden – landscape designers reveal 5 ways to get the Bridgerton look

rachel.bull@futurenet.com (Rachel Bull) — Sun, 13 Mar 2022 15:00:28 +0000

Inspired by the romantic planting schemes and lavish landscapes depicted in Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton, designers predict home gardeners will look to embrace elegant Regencycore planting as part of their backyard ideas this summer as the series returns to our screens in May.

When it comes to defining characteristics of Regencycore gardens, trailing wisteria is sure to be front of mind. The abundance of this opulent vine - its unmistakable amethyst flowers cascading dramatically across the front of Lady Bridgerton’s London mansion - is a frequent sight in the show.

‘Regency design is all about drama,’ says Stacilyn Feldman, a Principal at Oehme, van Sweden landscape architects in Washington, DC. ‘It’s about being bold and doing something unexpected in the garden. It should sweep you off your feet and make you feel a little woozy with wonder - just like the suitors in Bridgerton. The garden should spark curiosity and introduce mystery with twist and turns, tantalizing fragrances and surprising reasons to idle a little longer.’

The Bridgerton house from Netflix (Image credit: Netflix)

5 ways to embrace the Regencycore gardens trend

Intricate climbing vines is certainly one feature that represents this period. But what other plants and garden features define this era of decadence and opulence? And how can we go about recreating this look in our own backyards? We spoke to landscape designers and professional gardeners to find out.

1. Incorporate lavish climbing plants

(Image credit: Getty Images/Alena Kravchenko)

Wisteria isn’t the only elegant climbing plant that exudes romance and luxury. Consider planting climbing or rambling roses, clematis, honeysuckle and ivy, too. You can train these plants to grow and spread naturally over a trellis or pergola by regularly securing the vines with plant ties, such as these reusable ones from Amazon.

‘The defining essence of a Regency garden lies in its enchanting fusion of Georgian romanticism with extravagant layers of resplendent trees, shrubs, and climbing flowers,’ says Brian Sawyer of Sawyer Berson. ‘In productions such as Bridgerton, the set design transports us to this lavish era, draping buildings with cascades of wisteria and roses, seamlessly merging the garden with the house, a departure from the confinements of 18th-century walls.’

Climbing plants can certainly add a sense of wonder to a garden. ‘They defy gravity and tease our minds as they swoop overhead,’ agrees Stacilyn Feldman. ‘They can be finicky though, and we recommend planting them in a pair or trio to space out bloom times and maximize coverage. A favorite combination of mine is Akebia quinata, Clematis ‘Jackmanii’ and Bignonia capreolata. You get color, leaf texture and drama when all they intertwine.

As is the case with growing shrubs and trees in the backyard, patience is needed, explains Thomas Rutter, former professional gardener and content editor at Homes & Gardens. ‘While a wisteria planted today may take several years to achieve the desired look, foliage cover and floral impact will increase year on year.

‘Wisteria is a vigorous climber and so regular pruning is vital to maintain the desired shape, also ensuring that the overall size is kept in check,’ he adds. ‘Wisteria pruning typically takes place twice each year, once in winter and again in late summer. While some maintenance is required, the romantic scent of wisteria blooms makes it worth the effort. After several years, your wisteria will look good even in the winter months, with the old wood appearing web-like adorning walls and structures.’

2. Add a garden structure or a folly

(Image credit: Getty Images/Jacky Parker photography)

Garden structures such as gazebos, arches, arbors and pergolas are another hallmark of Regency design, but traditionally these kinds of structures were often known as garden follies.

‘They are a tease of a place,’ explains Stacilyn Feldman. ‘You see them in the distance and have a desire to go there, but really it’s not a building you can use for much aside from afternoon tea, somewhere to rest, or a hideaway for a moment alone… or not alone! We like to use garden structures to add intimate spaces and immediate character to a garden.’

To recreate a whimsical feel, you can adorn your pergola with some of the flowering climbing plants mentioned above, such as wisteria, clematis, or passionflower.

3. Create a romantic walkway

(Image credit: OvS_3_ClaireTakacs_ https://www.ovsla.com/)

Many scenes of the promenading bachelors in Bridgerton are filmed in the well-groomed gardens of Britain's grand country estates, paved with clear paths so that courting couples can promenade without messing up their petticoats.

To get a similar experience in your own garden, choose a path idea that helps create atmosphere and leads the eye through the planting. This will encourage you to linger on other focal points such as fountains, topiary or brightly-bedecked flower beds.

4. Add elegant ornaments for an air of sophistication

(Image credit: Getty Images/Jacky Parker Photography)

If there’s one thing every Bridgerton-style garden needs, it’s a dramatic fountain. Garden fountain ideas are a Regencycore staple.

Many Regencycore fountains and statues depict mythological creatures and act as garden focal points, with symmetrical landscaping on either side. You could also include decorative ornaments, such as bird baths, sun dials and wind chimes.

5. Choose a romantic color scheme for your plants

(Image credit: Getty Images/legna69)

Purple, blue, white and pink tones are seen regularly throughout Bridgerton, as these soft, romantic shades are often associated with the key themes of love and passion.

Tulips were also thought of as the height of luxury in the 1800s, so a simple way to mimic the exuberance and whimsy of the Regency era would be to plant en masse a bed of these spring bulb flowers in pink and purple tones.

‘I think of dreamy colors and fluffy cloud-like plants such as artemesia, hydrangea, peonies, hostas and heuchera,’ says Stacilyn Feldman. ‘At the American Museum & Gardens in Bath, UK, we paired nymph-like gaura with ethereal verbena for a dramatic wind-swept combination.’

Get the Regency-inspired look

Steel Garden Arch

The delicate steel scroll patterns along the sides and top of this arch structure create the perfect surface for climbing plants to grow.

3-tiered garden fountain

This pagoda-style stone fountain is a little on the pricey side, but it would go a long way to adding Regency-style charm to your outside space.

Garden Trellis for Climbing Plants

This small, decorative garden trellis is simple to assemble, and you can grow a vast variety of climbing plants, flowers and vegetables up it.

If you're eager to create a Regency look both outside and in, you might be interested in Ruggable's new Bridgerton-inspired collection, which feature shades that are ideal for spring.

Landscape designer shares her Mediterranean backyard design tips from this real LA garden

Teresa.conway@futurenet.com (Teresa Conway) — Sun, 19 Sep 2021 08:27:34 +0000

Restrained materials and a muted color pallet are just one way that a sense of calm has been created in this Mediterranean backyard, away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.

Whether it’s Sunset Strip, Venice Beach or the film studios of Hollywood, Los Angeles is not a city generally associated with calm. This landscape designer has incorporated design elements usually associated with the Mediterranean, from her choice of planting to her use of materials.

Climate-wise LA is an ideal match for Mediterranean garden ideas, with drought-tolerant planting and outdoor living at the fore.

‘There’s so much hustle and bustle in LA,’ says the designer of this backyard, Mintee Kalra of design firm Peruse. ‘You have to drive to get up here, through all the traffic and the chaos, so when you arrive, I wanted there to be the feeling of an exhale.’

Mintee has used repeat plantings of lavender, Agave ‘Blue Glow’ and Westringia fruticosa ‘Smokie’ to create a rich tapestry at the edges of the garden (Image credit: Christopher Lee)

Explore the Mediterranean backyard design tips on display in this LA garden

The finished space provides an expert lesson on how to create a Mediterranean garden. The restful backyard is attached to a house designed by 1970s LA architect, Fred Smathers. In part this is achieved through its thoughtful palette of both materials and plants but there are other tricks at work, too.

Mintee – a former fashion designer – was keen that the garden should channel the languid, voluptuous feeling of gardens she’d visited in Provence while traveling for her job. ‘I love that culture of lingering over meals and enjoying an intimacy in the company you’re with,’ she says.

She outlines the ways in which her and her team created this backyard oasis which perfectly exemplifies the Mediterranean backyard trend.

Creating different outdoor living areas

The bespoke outdoor kitchen is built from sand-finished concrete and reclaimed wood, with a bullnose limestone countertop (Image credit: Christopher Lee)

Mintee designed the garden as a social space with three key gathering areas, which act as anchors to the rest of the space.

The outdoor living areas include a fully equipped kitchen, large dining area and laid-back lounge.

The bespoke outdoor kitchen is built from sand-finished concrete and reclaimed wood, with a bullnose limestone countertop. The kitchen taps are copper piping and deliberately utilitarian to contrast with the rich materials elsewhere

The kitchen and dining areas are set on a lower level to enhance the sense of seclusion and ease, while the raised lounge space, with its outdoor sofas and board-formed concrete fire pit, feels even more cozy and cocooned thanks to its jasmine-draped perimeter walls.

Opting for a gentle color palette

Bricks reclaimed from the original garden were used to create the steps (Image credit: Christopher Lee)

The garden color scheme Mintee used is deliberately minimal. It's an elegant mix of silvers and blue-toned greens, with pops of Provencal lavender and white (from the jasmine and westringia flowers) and bright magenta from existing bougainvilleas, which Mintee had pruned to make them more delicate.

‘This repetition of plant materials is very important to me,’ says Mintee. ‘It adds cadence and rhythm and, even though it’s very simple, it always feels luxurious.’

In terms of hardscaping, concrete is used in multiple ways. The large fire pit is made of board-formed concrete, which has a slightly industrial look. A subtle contrast to the sand-finished concrete of the walls.

Swathes of gravel connect the different areas of the backyard and create a seamless cohesion. Try this Mini Marble Chip Landscape Rock 32 Bags at Home Depot for a similar effect.

Choosing plants which have sensory appeal

(Image credit: Christopher Lee)

The climate in LA (warm and often very dry) is comparable to that of Provence, so Mintee was able to use a similar plant palette too, choosing plants with multi-sensory appeal.

There are jasmine and lavender for scent – Lavender stoechas so-called ‘French lavender’ has aromatic flowers above blue-green foliage, and Trachelospermum jasminoides or star jasmine is happy in full sun or dappled shade; evergreen cherry laurel (Prunus caroliniana); Australian rosemary (Westringia fruticosa); and spiky, drought-tolerant Agave ‘Blue Glow’ for their contrasting foliage.

Other low-maintenance favorites include Philodendron selloum, a lush, tropical plant that has a pleasing architectural silhouette. Best for graphic appeal are Buxus sempervirens that can be clipped into myriad shapes and forms.

‘I love the scattered box globes on the higher level. As you walk through this sensory garden there’s a sense of playfulness, a hide-and-seek vibe,’ says Mintee.

Good for pollinators is Westringia fruticosa ‘Smokey’, a good clump-forming plant whose white flowers are loved by bees.

When it comes to creating a backdrop, Mintee favors Prunus caroliniana ‘Bright and Tight’. It makes a closely packed evergreen hedge, adding instant color and privacy.

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These large blooms will exude powerful fragrance and can be grown in USDA zones 5-9.

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Slender cypresses underplanted with olive shrubs frame the house entrance in a simple but effective combination (Image credit: Christopher Lee)

Adding impact with trees

A multi-stemmed olive tree is an eye-catching centerpiece and a lovely way of shading the dining area (Image credit: Christopher Lee)

Most dramatic of all, two wonderfully gnarled 40-year-old olive trees (Olea europaea ‘Sevillano’) frame the space and provide some much-needed shade. Fifteen feet tall, weighing 6,000lbs and each with a 6ft x 2ft root ball, getting these into the garden was no easy matter.

‘It was one of those hold-your-breath moments,’ says Mintee. ‘We brought them as far as we could on a flatbed truck and then used a skyjack to bring them the last quarter of a mile up the hairpin bends to the house. A long-reach crane then made the final lift to hoist them into place.’

The effort was well worth it. Their twisting, characterful trunks add a feeling of age and permanence to the garden, which was only completed last summer, and their feathered canopies filter the light, adding far more interest and biodiversity than a pergola or sunshade might.

Combined with the other small trees (crepe myrtles, chosen for their year-round interest, and some tall existing eucalyptus with fabulous peeling bark) they also cast beautiful shadows on the concrete walls in the garden, adding a further dimension to the space.

Using gravel for surfaces

Box balls are planted at random beneath crepe myrtles on the upper level of the garden, adding a touch of whimsy to the space (Image credit: Christopher Lee)

Gravel gardens tend to work best in sunnier spots away from deciduous trees. Since they retain water and stop it evaporating, true gravel gardens will not need much water.

Mintee advises that the first two inches of the base layer should be a 50:50 mix of decomposed granite or crushed stone and pea gravel in the same color tone. Lay this over a base cloth and compress, and then top with half an inch of loose gravel. This gives a stable base and a nice crunching sound when you walk. Medium grade gravel (10-20mm diameter) is the easiest to walk on.

If planting into gravel, a permeable membrane can be a good idea to suppress weeds. Simply cut a hole wherever you wish to plant. Mediterranean or drought tolerant plants such as agaves, rosemary and lavender are well-suited to growing in gravel.

Remember to rake your gravel occasionally – it instantly freshens it up and looks smarter.

Choose low-maintenance drought tolerant plants:

Mintee's planting list include an array of low maintenance plants, which are ideal for the LA climate, and which encapsulate the Mediterranean trend.

Philodendron selloum: a lush, tropical plant, grown in USDA zones 8-11, which gives a bold architectural shape.
Agave ‘Blue Glow’: is a slow-growing agave, with handsome rosettes of finely toothed leaves.
Buxus sempervirens: can be clipped into myriad shapes and forms, giving it huge graphic appeal.
Lavender stoechas: so-called ‘French lavender’ has aromatic flowers above blue-green foliage, ideal for a hit of heady scent.
Westringia fruticosa ‘Smokie’: a good clump-forming plant for pollinators whose white flowers are loved by bees.
Prunus caroliniana ‘Bright and Tight’: makes a closely packed evergreen hedge, adding instant color and privacy.
Trachelospermum jasminoides Star jasmine: is happy draped over a wall in full sun or dappled shade.
Olea europaea ‘Sevillano’: an old, gnarled olive tree which will add instant character to your backyard.

FAQs

How do I landscape with Mediterranean plants?

There are several easy and affordable ways to incorporate Mediterranean planting into your garden. So if you want good cheap landscaping ideas to make your garden look Mediterranean, start by looking at pictures to decide on a particular style. Perhaps consider a classic Italian vineyard garden of towering cypresses, olive, lavender and clipped shapes, or a more typically Spanish garden of palms and citrus.

Once you have settled on Mediterranean plants to try, think about the setting. Lawns are a luxury in hot, dry climates, and often replaced with paving to bring a courtyard look. Tiles are tempting but in wetter regions they are apt to be slippery and best used to decorate walls. Pale gravels bring texture to paths or as a mulch for plants. Slightly raised beds edged with brick, flint or stone will help keep the roots of sensitive plants drier in areas where winters are wet and cold. A pergola creates a home for climbing plants, as well as casting shade over a seating area.

The garden is zoned around key gathering areas for cooking, eating and relaxing. So have a look at our pick of the best outdoor furniture available at the moment.

How to hire a landscape designer – an expert guide

Teresa.conway@futurenet.com (Teresa Conway) — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 15:27:01 +0000

When deciding how to design your outdoor space, having a clear idea of what you want to achieve – and knowing how to hire a landscape designer to get the most out of the process – is key.

We’re breaking down, step by step, how to commission a landscape designer, so you can achieve the outdoor space of your dreams. Read on to learn about selecting a designer, budgeting and how to ensure the best outcome of your project.

1. Start your search

(Image credit: The Lovely Garden)

The Association of Professional Landscape Designers (or the Society of Garden Designers in the UK) is a great place to start your search, as the registered designers have all been subject to scrutiny and the adjudication of their projects.

‘Most designers are “civil engineers” with a love of plants, meaning that the entire project comes under their jurisdiction,’ says Louisa Bell of The Lovely Garden.

But it’s not just about the technical side, says Juliet Sargeant, a Fellow of the Society of Garden Designers (or FSGD). ‘A good designer has the imagination to create a bespoke design for you, the ingenuity to solve the site problems and the practical experience to implement the plans cost-effectively,' she says.

2. Choose the right designer

Photography/Harriet Farlam (Image credit: Farlam & Chandler)

One of your key considerations will, of course, be style and aesthetic. Acting on a personal recommendation can be useful, but Ben Chandler, a landscape designer and principal at Farlam & Chandler, feels that ultimately you must make the final decision and you should always choose a garden designer whose taste and style is aligned with your own.

At the same time, it is important not to base your decision purely on beautiful photographs of completed designs, but also ensure that you are going to enjoy the process of commissioning a new garden.

‘Having an initial consultation with the designer is a good way to see if you can work well together, allow them time to look at the garden and listen to your brief,’ says garden designer Andrew Duff .

3. Work out the costs

(Image credit: Andrew Duff Garden Design)

Price will inevitably vary based on the complexity of the project but generally they are all priced around the same basic set of principles. Andrew Duff tells us that pricing is all about clarity. ‘I lay out all the costs associated with the design right at the start,’ he says.

The build out of the landscape is priced based on a detailed set of design plans, and construction drawings, and from these you’ll be quoted at a fixed price.

Ben Chandler says that he would usually approach at least three different contractors to enable cross referencing of quotes for the client.

Remember that your landscape designer is a business professional, so you may be asked for a deposit upfront and then they may invoice after the completion of each stage.

Most designers will include a draft stage in their fee, so you have a chance to look at a proposed design and discuss changes before moving on to the next phase.

4. Consider where you can create savings

(Image credit: Courtesy of Joseph Richardson Landscape Architecture)

Cost cutting can be done before the first penny is spent, says landscape designer Andy Sturgeon.

'Start by thinking about what is worth keeping. What can you do with the existing hard landscaping, trees and shrubs? Is some rejuvenation possible? Doing this can create a sense of maturity from the outset.'

You can also establish the garden in stages. 'You need a direction to set rules and parameters with your design, but don't feel you have to decide everything up front. You need to keep costs under control, which can be hard when you're a beginner, so price out and note every item before you make a decision.'

Inexpensive materials can be the starting point for an entire scheme. 'Gravel is an example. I'm a big advocate of gravel gardens. They create light and space around the plants and are relatively cheap and easy to maintain all year round. I try to buy local gravel, ideally more than 10mm in diameter. Don't worry about putting a plastic membrane under the gravel, for me that's a false economy.'

Think about trade-offs and absolutes. 'A hedge might be better than an expensive fence, for example. One idea is to invest in a few decent-sized trees and shrubs to help create a mature landscape. It won't make an instant garden, but it does offer a framework while other plants establish. I recommend spending money on individual objects – spend as much as you can on something special that should last forever.'

5. Push the boundaries

Photography/Matthew Thomas Photography (Image credit: Juliet Sargeant Gardens & Landscapes)

Juliet Sargeant says it is all about taking risks and allowing yourself to be open to suggestions. ‘Let your landscape designer take you on a journey that may nudge you out of your comfort zone – I always say, nothing is set in stone until it is set in stone,' she says.

6. Consider the landscape design as a whole

(Image credit: Courtesy of Christian Douglas Design)

Before starting to plant and landscape, create an idea of the yard and garden as a visual whole. 'I tell clients not to look up plants in catalogues,' says Andy Sturgeon. 'The problem with seeing them individually is that you're looking at them in isolation. You need to think about palettes and choose combinations – think about height, color, texture and the seasons. Buy an initial selection, and add to that.'

7. Bring the inspiration

Photography/Harriet Farlam (Image credit: Farlam & Chandler)

Ben Chandler takes a look at tastes when it comes to defining the right style for a client ‘We ask our clients what they enjoy about gardens, whether they have favorite ones and if they have favorite plants.'

'We gather information from the style of the house and interiors,' says Ben. 'If the client is already working with an architect or interior designer, the proposed works gives us a good steer as to what they may or may not like.’

8. Think long-term

(Image credit: Andrew Duff Garden Design)

Andrew Duff likes  to think of the future as much as the present. ‘Having visited clients for over 25 years you have a good idea of what the client needs as well as what they want. You need to see through the aesthetic requirements and check if the function is correct. Again, flexibility is important, how long will you live in the house and are there any changes in the near future?’

It's also important to know that your garden will change and mature over time, so what you'll be planting today will fill in and look very different in five or ten years.

9. Forge a solid relationship

(Image credit: The Lovely Garden)

For Louisa Bell of The Lovely Garden the most important thing is to like and trust your designer.

‘I like to look around my client’s house and get to know them,' she says. 'In a first meeting I ask how couples met, what books and films they’re interested in. I like to know the type of people they are as it helps with the overall design.’

10. Work with your designer

Photography/Harriet Farlam (Image credit: Farlam & Chandler)

Being clear about your needs from the offset will help with the design process and a good designer will make sure to draw out every detail about exactly what your wants and needs are.

A designer will produce tailored-made designs to match your budget; if you under-estimate you could restrict the initial creative concept, if you over-estimate you could be disappointed if the design has to be scaled down or re-worked in line with your actual budget.

When it comes to design, Ben Chandler urges that you be open and critical from the beginning. ‘If the client is unsure or does not have a clear direction, it’s the designer’s job to steer them in the right way, putting in front of them decisions that enable them to make informed choices,’ he says.

How much does a landscape designer cost?

A garden designer will cost around 10 to 15 percent of your entire budget. This will usually include the fee for the initial survey, the garden design and planting list. However, each garden designer will have different pricing packages available, so it is worth being really clear in terms of what each side expects before you commission your chosen team.

What does a landscape designer do?

A landscape designer or landscape architect will do a site survey, create a design on paper and digitally with a new look for your garden – usually to your brief and after some discussion. The design – and the conversations you have about it before the first draft is submitted – will usually also include materials and hard landscaping and soft landscaping, plus planting suggestions.