Garden Talk

Observation: A Powerful Tool for Successful Landscapes

By Liz Braithwaite, Responsive Gardens

One of the most powerful tools that you can use to create successful landscapes and gardens is observation. Each yard is a bit different, and observation helps you to notice those differences and respond accordingly. Spend some time noticing things at different times of day and across the season. There are three main categories to pay attention to: people, microclimates, and vegetation.

1) People

Observe the people that go through and next to your yard. This includes things like the paths you walk, the places children play, and anytime neighbors, friends, or others interact with your landscape.

You might notice places where people frequently walk, which could use a path. You could also notice places you are drawn to like a shady corner with good views, or a hide-a-way the children like to play in.

The children frequently used this area of the yard. They loved interacting with the hill and tree. We added a slide, sandbox, and access for tree climbing. Because the sandbox was in a sunny location, a trellis provides shade as well as a fun enclosed location.

2) Microclimates

The general climate includes things like rainfall and temperature and doesn’t change across the landscape. But there are pockets in the landscape where unique conditions occur called microclimates.

To identify microclimates, notice how the sun moves across the landscapes. The sun changes angles in different seasons, so pay attention year-round. Look for where the snow melts in the winter, and shadow patterns in the summer. Also notice wind patterns, protected areas, and places that are hot or cool. Microclimates can also include dry slopes or wet areas that are slow to drain.

This area of the yard was sunny and dry. The soil was rocky, but semi-fertile. It made a perfect place for raised vegetable beds surrounded by fruit trees and chickens.

3) Vegetation

Vegetation will give you insight into plant health, and also into the soil. Notice when plants are struggling or thriving and what kind of plants they are.

Each plant tends to thrive in different conditions, and even weeds will give you insight into what will grow well in your garden. Noticing plant health can show problems that will perpetuate, like problems with fertility and soil health. A bit of digging can also help understand what’s going on. Look for changes in soil composition and structure and even how easy it is to dig.

In this area, many plants didn’t grow well. It was relatively wet but was low in fertility. Instead of lawn, I planted a meadow of clover and flowers with raspberries in the background.

Good observation will lead to insights that can help you be successful in your garden. You will have insight on what direction to go, and make decisions that respond to the unique circumstances of your yard.

https://responsive.garden/