Garden Layout Tips

Plant Placement

• Organize plants according to their needs. Taller and climbing plants flourish against latticework, fencing or posts. Beyond having the support necessary through staking or tying, placing taller plants in the back of a garden plot allows more sunlight for shorter plants or crawling and running vines. Evaluate the amount of shade or sunlight each plant type requires, as well as the nutrient needs of each plant type. Establish watering or irrigation patterns for the different sectors, use fertilizers and mulch that benefit the plant types.

Features and Accessories

• From gazing balls and bird feeders to inspirational plaques and mosaic paving stones, accessorize the garden with features that add tranquility and enhance the space. Birdbaths and bird feeders attract hummingbirds and a variety of local species to your garden, encouraging pollination as well as offering birdwatchers enjoyment. Gazing balls, wind chimes, stained glass features and other decorative items offer focal points for meditation, as well as adding color to gardens during winter periods when fewer plants bloom. Features such as ponds and fountains add another dimension to the garden but require placement near electrical outlets as well as maintenance, especially if the pond houses water plants or fish. Consider paving stones or gravel surrounding the water feature, and use it as a central point in the garden or as an entry point to a large, deep garden.

Aesthetics

• Style the garden layout according to your personal aesthetic, incorporating the colors and plants with your garden accessories. Benches placed near butterfly garden plants may prevent them from populating the area, though a bench placed several feet away offers the opportunity to enjoy the flowers and butterflies without disturbing them. Organize the flowers and plants according to the other features and installations, using them as anchors. Group flowers by color, size or shape for an organized garden or arrange plants randomly for a more dynamic appearance.