| Simplicity is the key to getting the most from small | | | | planter on a wrought iron stake. |
| garden designs. Choose a dominant bloom in a single | | | | Consider a design that has curved and/or diagonal |
| color to add impact. Repetition of a few varieties of | | | | elements. Again, curves add flow, motion, and often |
| plants with one or two complimentary colors will | | | | the illusion of bigger space. |
| enable you to create a lush, yet uncluttered space. | | | | Choose light outdoor furniture that 'breathes' and |
| While simplicity is key, dare to be different in your | | | | complements your garden and lifestyle. |
| shape, elevation, and textures. | | | | Add lighting to highlight special areas, offer nighttime |
| Many small garden designs are confined to straight | | | | appeal, and promote safety. |
| lines: straight edges, borders, walkways, and plant | | | | Less is more: proportion the number of different |
| rows. While straighter, cleaner lines work well if you | | | | plants and colors to avoid a cluttered look. Too many |
| plan on using the space for formal entertaining, | | | | different elements can make gardens and especially |
| gardens designed with curving lines offer a more | | | | small gardens seem cluttered and just thrown |
| informal feel and add a sense of flow and graceful | | | | together. |
| movement to your landscape. Small garden designs | | | | Other tips? Dividing a small garden with an arbor, |
| with diagonal elements give the illusion of larger area, | | | | trellis, or bench creates a focal point and makes your |
| as the eye moves from corner to corner. Here are | | | | garden look more spacious at the same time. Use |
| some pointers to follow: | | | | different elevations and plant heights to diversify a |
| Make use of your vertical space. On vertical surfaces | | | | small area; this can be as simple as adding a raised |
| like walls and fences, try using climbing plants and | | | | bed. Elements with dual functions are perfect for |
| ornaments that offer pizzazz and vertical interest. | | | | small gardens: a sitting area with steps offers a |
| Fences and walls can also provide arenas for hanging | | | | height element as well as an natural plant stand. |
| plants. Climbing vines on a trellis and ornamental | | | | If there is enough room for a larger shrub or small |
| grasses can soften boundaries while offering | | | | tree, feel free: they can offer lovely focal points and |
| year-round appeal. | | | | are perfect shelters for lower-lying plantings and |
| You can also create new height with taller character | | | | ground covers. The most important factor in small |
| shrubs and trees. Add a focal point, such as a small | | | | gardening design? Use your imagination to create a |
| trellis or birdhouse, fountain, birdbath, or hanging | | | | beautiful, eye-catching, natural space. |