I live in a temperate climate that experiences a great deal of seasonal change. My garden is designed to accommodate this by featuring four seasons of plant growth: spring, summer, fall, and winter. Each season features different plants and flowers that will be in bloom at different times. In the spring, I can expect to see annual flowers such as daffodils, tulips, and crocus blooming. These are short-lived plants that will quickly go to seed and die after flowering. More long-lived plants like roses, lavenders, and hostas will start to flower in the early part of the spring, but will eventually go dormant for the summer months. In the fall, I can expect to see trees like maples and oaks begin to turn color. Again, these trees will flower for a short time and then go dormant for the winter months. In the winter, I can expect to see my favorite plants from each season growing side by side. Annuals like coreopsis and Tweetie will be blooming while perennial plants like yarrow and ferns are beginning to grow strong.
My mum always says that plants are the best friends of humans. She's right, of course. Not only do they bring beauty and serenity to our homes, but they can also help us to improve our health, reduce our carbon footprint, and purify the air we breathe. Plant flowers sensibly and in groups to create a striking composition. Use contrasting colours and textures to create an eye-catching display. Alternatively, use a single type of flower in a plain vase to create a more tranquil effect. Whatever you choose to do, make sure your flowers are carefully chosen and that you give them the care they need to look their best.
Add some greenery to your scene to help create an atmospheric feel. Plants can be used to provide a sense of life in a barren or lifeless setting, and can also add interest to a scene. Try using trees, bushes, and flowers to add foliage and create a more natural-looking environment.
Stones and plants are two natural elements that can be integrated into a garden structure. Stones can be used to create borders or steps, and plants can provide a colorful addition to the garden.
An asymmetrical garden makes a statement of individuality. If one side of the garden is larger or more elaborate than the other, it draws attention to itself and emphasizes the individualistic nature of the gardener. Asymmetry can also be interesting because it presents a different perspective on familiar plants. For example, a formal bed full of flowers might be offset by a riot of color in a corner garden.
Water your garden often, especially during dry times. Plants need water to stay healthy and grow. If you don't water your garden, it will become dry and the plants will die. You can water your garden by using a watering can, hose, or sprinkler.
To allow a garden to 'breath' by planting perennials and flowers that die back in the summer, provides a more natural look and allows for other plants to grow. The following flowers and plants will die back in the summer, providing an opportunity for other plants to grow: clematis, larkspur, lily of the valley, lavender, roses, salvias, yarrow.
