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The Well Rounded Herb Garden

© Barbara M. Martin

Please note: Thank you for visiting my Cottage Garden topic and reading my columns, published here from February 1997 through spring 2003! This Cottage Garden column was written by Barbara M. Martin and is Copyrighted, including any photos, by Barbara M. Martin. It may not be altered or copied or published elsewhere in whole or in part without specific permission from the author. I regret I am no longer actively editing or contributing to this suite101.com topic as of mid-2003. Happy Gardening!

The Wagon Wheel Herb Garden Design: A Time Tested Design Comes Around Again

Sometimes an old idea turns new again. Such is the reappearance of this charming small herb garden design based on a centerpiece created from a vintage wagon wheel. Although an old-fashioned design, this is a wonderful arrangement for modern gardens, too.

The circular shape integrates perfectly with either a naturalistic planting scheme or a rectilinear, formal setting depending on how you finish off the outer dimensions of the herb plot. In the photo, the edges blend away softly through the use of gravel, step stones and creeping plants. For a more formally finished or tailored look, the wheel could be centered in a square or rectangular raised bed.

To make a similar garden at home is a simple task. Select a sunny, level spot and prepare the soil. If an antique wagon wheel isn't handy, use any weather resistant material you like to outline the shape of the wheel and its spokes. Add your herbs, and voila!

Somehow things are never quite that simple, so here are some tips about how to make your own wheel shaped herb garden at home.

Using the Wheel Shape to Advantage The wheel pattern is most striking if it is at least four feet across. If your circle is much larger than that, add a centerpiece such as a large urn or a sundial on a pedestal to add height, winter interest and structural definition.

The wheel does not necessarily have to be in the center of your herb garden area, but it should be the dominant feature. Allow the edges of the herb bed to blend into the surrounding garden naturally if you have an informal landscape, or use a definite edging to delineate it sharply in a formal setting or if it is located in a lawn area.

Marking the Circle and Spokes Once you have decided on the location and approximate dimensions for your circle and herb area, prepare the soil as needed for planting and then level it.

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