GardenLeap

tips, guides and articles to jump start your garden

Archive for the ‘design’ Category

Designing A Year-Round Garden

Posted by plantsman On December - 22 - 2009

pussywillowAn ideal garden design is one which offers something during every season. In spring and summer, ornamental trees and flower beds are full of colorful blooms. Vibrant foliage adds beauty to the fall landscape and in the winter the berries, evergreens and bark color provide color. Also important in the winter is the silhouette of trees and shrubs.

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Patio Design

Posted by plantsman On December - 8 - 2009

patioPatios and terraces mark the transition between the house and the garden. They should be though of as an extension of the house or an outdoor room. Thoughtful planning should go into choosing the appropriate materials for the hard surfaces of the garden.

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An Introduction To Japanese Gardens

Posted by plantsman On December - 6 - 2009

japanese gardensJapanese gardens are designed to portray a scene that mimics nature, through symbolization and abstraction, by using trees, shrubs, rocks, sand, artificial hills, ponds, and flowing water as art-forms. Often Japanese gardens reduce the scale of the natural environment, which may consist of  mountains, rivers, trees, and ponds, through the use of  symbolization and abstraction. For instance, the incorporation of white sand in the garden may symbolize a water feature such as a pond or river. Stone in the sand may symbolize islands.

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An Introduction To Water Gardens

Posted by plantsman On December - 5 - 2009

fountainWater gardens are a wonderful addition to any property. They incorporate stonework, interesting plants and lighting. Water gardens which encompass waterfalls and fountains provide the garden with the soothing sounds of running water and all water gardens create a sense of coolness and tranquility as well a place to include exotic species of plants.

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Courtyard Gardens

Posted by plantsman On December - 1 - 2009

courtyardCourtyard gardens are outdoor spaces which are enclosed on 3 or 4 sides. Generally courtyards are open to the sky though some incorporate garden structures, such as pergolas, on which to grow vines and to create shade. Most courtyards are small. There are, however, those, such as the ones found in urban areas between large buildings, which are quite large. Courtyard gardens are common in urban areas, where homes are closer together.

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Garden Paths

Posted by plantsman On November - 29 - 2009

pathGarden paths are meant to guide visitors though your garden and, if planned well, present the best views, whether within the garden or in the distance.

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White Gardens

Posted by plantsman On November - 29 - 2009

spring flowerWhite gardens can be planned for any location but they are perhaps best for shady areas as they will brighten up a those areas of your property.

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The Natural Garden

Posted by plantsman On November - 29 - 2009

bluebells_woodsNatural gardens utilize easy to grow, low maintenance native species of plants. These plants have adapted to certain environments and are generally self sustaining. They’ll need little, if any, fertilizer and no more water than is provided by rain. Natural gardens include a rich and diverse selection of plants. They introduce trees, shrubs and perennials not found in some gardens. Natural gardens also provide the landscape with a sense of place as they draw inspiration from the local landscape.

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Garden Gifts

Posted by plantsman On November - 24 - 2009

wreath2If there’s a gardener on your shopping list this holiday season you have quite a bit to choose from. Any gardener would appreciate reference guides or other garden related books. They’ll also appreciate a quality garden tool or a bag to organize and carry them. Add decor to a yard with a garden accent such as a sundial. Allow your friends keep their feet dry in the garden with a pair of clogs.

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Vacation

Posted by plantsman On November - 23 - 2009

Going to check out the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens in Charlotte NC. I’ll update the site with some photos later this week. Should be fun.