Nature is beautiful, and it's easy to get lost in its beauty. Look at plants as if they are your friends. They are constantly growing and changing, and you can learn a lot from them.
The blue-green plants are usually associated with water, the yellow-orange plants with earth, and the red and orange plants with heat. The green plants can be placed in any of these groups, depending on their function. Some plants are used for food, others to cover surfaces so that liquids or dust don't get tracked in, others to provide shade or insulation. Placing plants in groups according to function can help you observe patterns and symmetry in your garden.
It is important to space plants evenly so they have room to grow and crosspollinate. This will ensure that the plants produce healthy fruit and flowers.
There are many drought tolerant plants out there that can help manage water in the garden. One great option is succulents. These plants store water in their fleshy roots, which helps them survive periods of drought. Other good options include shrubs and trees that can transpire (release water vapor) less than other plants, such as oaks and maples. For a complete list of drought tolerant plants, check out the USDA's PLANTS Database.
A container garden is an attractive way to grow plants in small spaces, or where plant growth is not desired. Container gardens are easy to care for - simply water and fertilize them as needed - and look great on patios, porches, yards, and anywhere there is space to display plants. There are a number of varieties of containers available, including terra cotta pots, wooden crates, recycled tires, and barrels. When selecting a container, use one that is the right size for the item being planted; too large a container will hold too much water, while too small a container will not provide enough room for the plants to root and grow.
Fragrant flowers in a garden can make it smell wonderful! Some of the best-known fragrant flowers are lavender, jasmine, rose, and orange blossom. Choose varieties that are known for their fragrance if you want to create a wonderful garden scent.
