Gardening
There’s more to gardens than plants There’s more to gardens than plants Naturally, plants are the linchpin of a garden. They are the lifeblood of a space, lending movement, atmosphere, colour and soul. It is the plants that provide calm energy and an essence of spirit. They make a garden pulse with life, including the society of tiny creatures that coexist with the vegetation and flora. But there is more to a garden than these essential, addictive growing forces of nature. It hinges around design and layout. This applies as much to a balcony or courtyard as it does to a garden, and it’s all about interest. If you can see everything at a glance, then your space could be improved. The eye likes to be led from one thing to another and a sense of intrigue is always a positive thing. Every garden can provide a desire to explore. A change in levels always helps, so a flat space might benefit from a step up to a patio or a step down to a seating area. It provides somewhere to ‘go’ and a reason to move throughout the space. If the garden has potential for a circulation route, provide one. A different entry and exit point will enable you to
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travel around the garden rather than stepping in and out via the same route. Then there is the illusion of blurring the boundaries. Nobody needs to feel confined by fences or walls. Those fences can be partially, if not wholly, hidden. Use climbing plants that are suitable for the aspect and the height that you need. There are clematis for north-facing sites as well as sunnier situations. Climbing roses can be secured to steel planting wires or trellises, or choose something that is self-clinging such as Hydrangea petiolaris or a beautiful ivy with variegated leaves. Did you know that our native ivy, Hedera helix, is hugely beneficial to wildlife, supporting at least 50 different species? The nectar, pollen and berries provide an essential food source for insects and birds. The plant also offers shelter for many invertebrates, birds, bats and small mammals. The value of adornments Sculpture, mirrors, ornamental pieces and trinkets can look wonderful… or not. Placement is key. Smaller items need to be partially hidden so that they seem to be part of the garden landscape, rather than appearing to have dropped out of the sky. Any
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