GARDEN DECOR

Little things count a lot when it comes to garden décor. By paying attention to details, we can create stunning gardens. When herb gardeners think of landscapes the first thing that comes to mind is plants. I admit I'm a plantaholic, but over time I've come to realize that I need to coordinate the herbs and other plants with the non-plant details for a more pleasing look.

There are many ways to add herbal motifs and other finishing touches to the landscape. Utilitarian items need not be plain. Paving is an example. Use the paints especially designed for gardens, called Patio Paints, to stencil some herbal touches to your garden.

Decorate the mailbox with herbs. Whether it's a wall mount type or a standard one on a pole out by the curb, there's a way to accessorize it. Use stencils to paint it with decorative scenes. For patio lighting many of us still use candles. For a classic look, use terra cotta pots as candleholders. These can be decorated as you wish. To create a coordinated look, use matching terra cotta pots for herbs and other container gardens. Depending on the garden's needs, garden ornaments can range in style from the classic to folk art. Artistic types can create their own whimsical garden art by painting objects in eye-catching colors.

Make your own twig furniture. Then choose a shady spot and create a pleasing seating arrangement with these treasures. Add a colorful container of shade-loving herbs, flowers, and some garden art. Nestled in the shade of tall trees you'll have a perfect place to relax.

You're sure to get inspirational tips from "Paradise Found-Gardening In Unlikely Spaces" by Rebecca Cole from Clarkson Potter. She shows that details are what really matter. For those awkward spots where gardening is difficult Cole has wonderful examples and answers.

Imagine taking an old shutter and turning it into a garden ornament. It works beautifully. Forget about refinishing that old lawn furniture or bucket. Leave it as it is. Cole, a landscape and floral designer, walks you through every step of the process, including designing, planting, and maintaining the garden, and choosing architectural elements.

Gilly Love takes a similar approach in "Garden Decorator-Making The Most Of Outdoor Space," published by Laurel Glen. Love encourages you to use the same techniques for your garden as you would indoors. This marvelous book has 15 striking, easy-to-do projects with step-by-step details. These are suitable for everyone because they require no special skills. If your garden seems dreary maybe the answer is a quick transformation with some of these projects.

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic