But at the center of this kaleidoscopic display is an inward focused central square bed about eight feet across, surrounded by the gravel path. In the center of this in turn is a tall garden ornament. A simple jet of water cascading down a simple plinth to a small basin would be perfect, but this garden is a public space and so a sundial will be used instead. A silvery clutch of lavender, "Berggarten" sage and delicate dwarf santolina snuggled together encircles the plinth.In each corner we find a simple green boxwood. Eventually these will be clipped square, but for now they are little green balls. At the outer edge of each boxwood, a silvery, soft cloak of (nearly) non-blooming Helene von Stein stachys softens the sharp corner. Around the perimeter of the square are narrow bands of bright golden oregano running from corner to corner and connecting the clumps of stachys. And infilling from the outer edge to the center are four types of thyme, one to each quarter of the bed, each chosen for its texture and creeping habit.
So simple, and yet so satisfying.
Herb Garden Images, Inspiration
Herb Garden "Must Haves"
Planning and Planting Basics
For more links to herb sites, see "Herbs" on the Cottage Garden Links List. The list is currently loading slowly because it is large and I apologize for that. I expect it to be remedied soon but until then, I think you'll find it worth the wait!
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