H O M E S
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A Mediterranean garden should engage all the senses, and include a well thought out combination of natural elements such as vibrant colours, heady perfumes, exotic tastes, textures and patterns.
G A R D E N S
Words by Sharon Kilby of Bella Terra Garden Design
Taking Root in Tuscany One of the most enjoyable aspects of living in Tuscany has to be the sight, sounds and aromas of the classic Tuscan garden. Even the very tiniest of balconies play host to Italy’s trademark pots of geraniums and the ever present window boxes across the region can be found joyfully bursting with fragrance and colour. he Tuscan garden undoubtedly harbours landscaping features. Take note of plant names endless possibilities and as such demands and ask questions whenever possible, the more research you undertake at the planning stages some careful consideration. the better thought out your garden will be. Seek However, with so many things to consider professional advice wherever possible when creating a Tuscan garden it is and take into consideration critical often difficult to know where to Check out your begin, where to source plants factors such as protection from soil’s type and structure; and how to make gardens frost, wind, sun and access to many Tuscan gardens are thrive in a new or unfamiliar water and electricity. poor in nutrients and will Restricting the amount environment. benefit from regular mulching of lawn you have will also The most practical and with organic matter such as reduce the amount of gentle introduction to grass clippings. Mulching your maintenance needed, creating a Tuscan garden plant beds and vegetables lawns need water, regular is to take inspiration from gardens will also help the soil feeding and cutting to others. Get to really know retain moisture and reduce remain in good shape. A your area, take time out the growth of weeds. to look closely at gardens more practical and visually appealing option is a gravel around you and take images garden incorporating raised beds, and notes of those things you like or do not like. Put together a large board perfectly suited to both Mediterranean of ideas, include colours, textures and hard and Alpine environments. Gravel gardens are low maintenance and raised beds are easily accessible and work wonderfully in kitchen gardens where herbs and vegetables are instantly available. To separate your garden into different areas why not introduce low box or lavender hedging both of which are integral parts of formal Italian garden schemes. If you wish to cover a wall, gateway or archway then scented Jasmine, Wisteria or Lilac work wonderfully alongside climbing roses. If you have a larger space or driveway requiring colour then strips of Oleander will break up bare areas and bay hedging or bamboo will act as a windbreak. For a natural approach why not leave a grassed area to become a wild flower meadow, sow a
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28 | THE TUSCAN MAGAZINE
poppy seed mixture into the long grass then simply mow walkways through the meadow, the effect is truly beautiful. If you have a smaller courtyard or terrace then of course the most satisfying way of achieving a Tuscan feel is by using a combination of terracotta pots, troughs and urns. Geraniums help keep the dreaded mosquitoes at bay and kitchen herbs such as basil, thyme, parsley and sage are all very happy in pots, just remember to water regularly. Why not plant a few caper seeds
in your garden walls, simply pop in a couple of seeds with a little compost or a few raisins, the fruit will feed the seed as it takes root. Citrus trees will also remain happy in large pots but must be moved to a frost free spot in the autumn. Of course Tuscany would not be Tuscany without its vines and climbing roses both of which if trained carefully can provide valuable protection for shade loving plants such as Hellebores and Hostas.
a garden design worth 800 Euro The Tuscan Magazine has teamed up with Bella Terra Garden Design to offer one reader the chance to win a consultation with an experienced garden designer and receive a unique garden design created specifically for their garden. The prize worth 800 Euros will include a visit from one of Bella Terra’s designers and a hand drawn design with a planting list. If you would like the opportunity to have your Tuscan garden designed by a professional or would like a general overview of what can be achieved simply leave a comment and contact details on Bella Terra’s blog www.bellaterragardendesign. blogspot.com explaining why you need a garden designer and we will choose a winner, the competition is open until 1st July 2011. Terms and Conditions: The prize is available only to those with a garden in Tuscany
Bella Terra Garden Design
At Bella Terra we create gardens that work in harmony with nature. Experienced and RHS trained in classic and contemporary design, we make truly inspiring and unique living environments. Working throughout Tuscany projects include:
t $MBTTJD 5VTDBO (BSEFOT t 'BNJMZ BOE $PNNVOBM 4QBDFT t 'PSNBM ,JUDIFO (BSEFOT t )FBMJOH (BSEFOT 4BDSFE 4QBDFT t $JUZ BOE $PVSUZBSE (BSEFOT t 1FSNBDVMUVSF 0SHBOJD (BSEFOT For more info take a look at our blog: www.bellaterragardendesign.blogspot.com
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In two comprehensive sections this book explains how to grow the best Italian ingredients, including herbs fruits and vegetables, no matter where you live. I the second section these tasty and simple ingredients are transformed in your kitchen into wholesome and truly Italian food.
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preorder y your cop NOW
The book will be published on the 20th May May. The RRP is £16.99 and TTM can offer you the super price of £12.99 + p&p. You can pre-order your copy and request p&p details for your country by sending an email to editor@thetuscanmagazine.com
Via F.Parri, 79 Uzzano Tel: 0572 452837 (Italian). For assistance in English: Tel: 339 2749177 email: info.mag@alice.it
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The recipes are easy to follow and you don’t have to have grown the ingredients yourself – it’s just more fun that way!
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