Small Garden Designing

Simplicity is most important for getting the most from small garden designs. Pick one dominant bloom in a single shade to add impact. Repetition of a few varieties of flowers with one or more complimentary shades will help you to build a rich, yet uncluttered area. While being simple is key, dare to be different in your shape, elevation, and texture.

A lot of small garden designs stick to straight lines, border beds, paths, and plant rows. While garden decor and decorating with straighter lines will work best if you plan on using the area for formal entertainment, a garden planned with curved lines offer a more informal feel and give a sense of flowing movement to your landscape. Smaller garden designs with diagonal elements give the appearance of larger area, as your eye goes from one corner to another corner. Here are a few tips to go by:

Use vegetation and ornamentals that offer pizzazz and vertical interest. Consider a plan that has curves and diagonal properties. Pick light patio furniture that adds to your garden and lifestyle. Add lighting to showcase specific areas, give nighttime appeal, and promote safety.

Less can be more: space the number of different flowers and shades to avoid a jumbled up look. Create a focal point, Like a small arbor, birdhouse, birdbath, or hanging planter on a wrought iron stake. Make the best of any fences and retaining walls. Fences can provide areas for hanging baskets. Climbing vines on an arbor and decorative grass can soften boundaries while offering all season interest.

Other tips. Separating a small garden with a trellis or bench creates a focal point that makes your garden areas look bigger at the same time. Alter elevations and plant heights to diversify a small area; this can be as simple as creating a raised bed. Features with several functions are perfect for small garden designs: a sitting area with steps gives a height element as well as a naturalized plant stand. If there is more room for a larger shrub or small tree, feel free: this can give lovely focals and are perfect shelters for low plants and ground covers. The best element in small gardening design? Be creative to create a beautiful, appealing, natural place.

Article courtesy of PatioHomeandGarden.com which offers free design ideas and tips for home decorating, garden, and patio. For more ideas visit www.patiohomeandgarden.com

- Jackson Nimble