TIPS FOR TURNING YOUR YARD INTO AN ENGLISH-STYLE GARDEN
Do you feel torn between the look of a formal landscape design and one that is wild and untamed? If so, then an English garden could be the right option for you. Keep reading for tips on creating an English-style garden design near Westchester County.
Choose the Right Plants
The first step in planning an English-style garden is to know what plants to look for. Some of the traditional perennials found in English gardens include hydrangea, hibiscus, phlox, lupine, and bee balm. Also, you will want to incorporate some annuals, for which marigolds, cosmos, and pansies are excellent choices. Finally, don’t forget to include roses here and there. If you don’t favor the look of precisely pruned rose shrubs and trees, then consider using climbing varieties.
Plan a Traditional Layout
Early on, English gardens had a formal look and were known for geometric patterns, sculptural elements, and symmetrical design. However, English-style landscape design has evolved and can feature winding pathways, colorful plants, and areas for recreation or contemplation. Despite this, flower beds are often surrounded by hedges that are neat and form geometric shapes, so avoid curvy or free-flowing borders. Also, keep in mind that borders made with living plants are frequently used to divide areas and create visual pathways in these gardens. As for hardscaping, try not to use too many materials for your walls and walkways. Instead, select 1 or 2 options for your pavers and stone surfaces.
Add a Kitchen Garden
A true English garden includes some form of a kitchen garden, so that fresh herbs and vegetables are kept on hand. For herbs, some popular options include chamomile, sweet basil, chives, lavender, dill, mint, sage, oregano, and lemon balm. As for vegetables, consider planting Swiss chard, cabbage, carrots, fennel, lettuce, cucumbers, zucchini, or beans. Finally, if you don’t want to have a designated area for your kitchen garden, then feel free to plant herbs and vegetables along walkways and within flower beds.
Contact Bellantoni Landscape for landscaping & hardscaping services.