Composition in landscape design refers to the layout of garden structures and plants, the spaces they create (patios, lawns, etc.) and the transitions between them (paths, steps, etc). Successful garden compositions strive for unity which is realized when elements of the design have a harmonious relationship to each other.
Compositions which rely on a limited number of plant species, forms, colors and textures often produce the most pleasing garden designs. A fundamental design principle is to cluster plants in groups of three, five. As individual plants grow together they become visually read as clusters of color or textures and not single specimens.
Creating a focal point in the garden, using juxtaposition, can draw one‘s eye to a specific garden feature. Juxtaposition creates visual interest in the garden and is most often achieved with contrasting plant form, texture or color. For example, a white birch (Betula papyrifera) becomes quite prominent when planted in front of a stand of evergreens.
Columnar and pyramidal shaped plants, such as arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) and boxwood (Buxus sempervirens), help create the vertical edges in an outdoor space or outdoor walls. They can frame views, create privacy, define the edges of a patio or accentuate a garden path.
Repetition in a planting plan (planting the similar plants throughout the garden) can create a feeling of rhythm or movement in the garden. Incorporating similar plants throughout the garden design can also help create a harmonious composition.
A garden’s overall theme may be informal, formal or natural. Natural and informal gardens are generally designed to be asymmetrical while the designs for formal gardens are often linear or symmetrical. Following a particular theme (a style that’s carried throughout the landscape) creates a feeling of unity in the garden.
The most successful garden compositions incorporate seasonal interest so include in your design, plants which have attractive year-round qualities. Many trees and shrubs flower in the spring, offer lush foliage through the summer, provide colorful fall foliage and form berries which last through the winter.
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