A garden is a place of serenity and beauty, a refuge from the hectic pace of everyday life. It is a place to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family, or simply to spend some time alone in contemplation. A well-designed garden can be an oasis in the middle of a city or a haven amid your busy home.
Creating the perfect garden setting can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and some simple guidelines, it can be easy and fun. Here are seven steps to get you started:
1. Adding a Water Feature
A water feature is a great way to add interest and relaxation to your garden. It can be as simple as a birdbath or as elaborate as a pond with fish. The sound of running water will add a sense of peace and tranquility to your space. However, if you want to have an ultimate outdoor water feature, then opt for a fountain. These come in all shapes and sizes, so you’re sure to find one that fits your space.
On the other hand, if you want to keep things simple, then consider adding a birdbath. Not only will this provide water for your feathered friends, but it will also add interest and charm to your garden.
2. Choose the Right Plants
When selecting plants for your garden, it’s important to choose those that will thrive in your particular climate. If you live in an area with hot summers and cold winters, then you’ll need to select plants that can withstand both extremes. Annuals and perennials are a good choice for this type of climate, as they will die back in the winter and return in the spring.
If you live in a more temperate climate, then you have a wider range of plants to choose from. However, it’s still important to select those that are appropriate for your particular growing conditions. For example, if you have a lot of shade in your garden, then you’ll want to select plants that can tolerate low light levels.
Once you’ve selected the right plants for your climate, it’s time to choose those that will add beauty and interest to your space. Consider the color, texture, and shape of the plants when making your selections. You’ll also want to think about how tall or short they will grow.
3. Create a Focal Point
Every garden needs a focal point, something that will draw the eye and provide a sense of structure. A focal point can be anything from a stunning piece of sculpture to a beautiful flower bed. It’s up to you to decide what will work best in your space.
Once you’ve selected a focal point, you can then begin to plan the rest of your garden around it. For example, if you have a beautiful piece of sculpture that you want to showcase, then you’ll want to select plants that will accent it without stealing the show. Or if it’s a fountain, then you’ll want to select plants that can tolerate getting wet.
However, if you have a large garden, then you may want to create multiple focal points. This will help to break up the space and add interest.
4. Add Color
Color is an important element in any garden. It can be used to create a mood, highlight a particular area, or simply add visual interest. When selecting colors for your garden, it’s important to consider both the flowers and the foliage.
Flowers come in a wide range of colors, so you’re sure to find those that will suit your taste. They can be planted in beds, along walkways, or even in containers. When choosing flowers for your garden, consider the amount of sunlight and water they will need.
Foliage can also add color to your garden. Evergreen plants will provide year-round interest, while deciduous plants will change colors with the seasons. Foliage can be used to create a background for your flowers or as a stand-alone element.
5. Include Some Trees
Trees are an important part of any garden. They can provide shade, create a sense of privacy, and even help to cool the air. If you live in an area with hot summers and cold winters, then you’ll want to select deciduous trees. These trees will lose their leaves in the winter, allowing sunlight to reach your home.
Additionally, including some evergreen trees in your garden will provide year-round interest and privacy. If you have a small space, then consider selecting a dwarf variety. These trees are smaller in stature but can still provide all the benefits of their larger cousins.
6. Think About Walkways
The walkways in your garden are just as important as the plants. They can help to define the space and create a sense of movement. When planning your walkways, be sure to consider their purpose. Are they simply for the looks or do you need them to be functional as well?
If you want your walkways to be more, then you’ll need to consider their width and surface. For example, if you have a wheelchair or stroller, then you’ll need a wider path. And if you live in an area with a lot of rain, then you’ll want to make sure the walkway has a non slip surface.
Also, are these walkways head to the deck or a patio? If so, then you’ll want to make sure there is a smooth transition between the two surfaces.
7. Places to Sit and Rest
After you’ve put all the hard work into creating your garden, you’ll want to have a place to sit and enjoy it. Selecting the right furniture will depend on both the style of your garden and your personal preferences.
If you have a formal garden, then you may want to choose traditional furniture made from metal or wood. For a more relaxed look, consider wicker or rattan furniture. And if you’re tight on space, then you might want to opt for folding chairs or benches that can be stored when not in use.
Don’t forget to add some cushions and throws to make your garden furniture more comfortable. And if you want to get away from it all, then consider adding a hammock or daybed.
There is no one perfect way to design a garden. The key is to select elements that you love and that will work together to create a space that you’ll enjoy for years to come. With a little planning and some creativity, you can easily create the ultimate garden setting.
