Layer Your Plantings

Part three in a series

In our last article, we helped you layout your new landscape. In this article we'll explore which plants to put where and what makes an effective landscape.

If you think of your landscape as a stage, you can easily imagine the basics of layout. On a stage, you have a nice background or backdrop in the back. The backdrop is usually large and fills your entire view. In front of the backdrop, you have some smaller items that set the scene. These may be small pieces of furniture. And then in the very front you have your actors?your stars. They take the front and center to get the most attention. So, looking from back to front, you have your backdrop, your accent pieces, and finally your stars.

Laying out a good landscape uses the same principles: we start with a backdrop in the very back, then we add some accents, then finally, our stars!

The Backdrop

The backdrop can be any number of things but the basic principle is that the backdrop simply serves to show off the items in front of it, and can also be used to hide things behind it. A good backdrop could be something as simple as a wall or fence, or something as elaborate as a planting of evergreens. As long as the evergreens have one common element (perhaps they have the same color or same texture), they will serve as a good backdrop.

The Accents

Your accent pieces are plants that help to dress the set. These work well if planted in groupings of at least three. For example, a clump of bushes off to the left of your "set" and a clump or flowering plants on the right. Or perhaps some clumps of grasses would serve as a good accent.

The Stars

Now for the stars! Taking center stage are your accents. And they don't have to be centered! As long as they are different from your backdrop and accents plants, they will become your stars. For example, an evergreen backdrop with some grasses used as an accent set up a nice monochromatic green image. Place some white flowering plants in front and they become the stars of your landscape. Because of their different color from the rest of your "set", they will stand out.

You can create multiple "sets" in your landscape. Just break up your landscape into smaller mini-scapes. As long as each area is separated by backdrops and accents, you can easily achieve a beautiful look.

Dean Novosat is an avid gardener and landscaper. He has transformed many boring yards into beautiful landscapes. He has several websites including http://www.the-garden-doctor.com and http://www.dr-landscape.com.

---

How to Grow Snow Peas

Snow peas may have been named because in bright sunlight... Read More

Working with Landscape Contractors

Having a beautiful and functional landscape is every homeowners dream.... Read More

Decorative Garden Accents

Think of your garden like you would a room in... Read More

Amish Furniture on the Front Porch

While shopping on line the other day at www.stoveramishfurniture.com, I... Read More

Seeds and More Seeds...What Your Garden Needs

Seeds are the most important ingredient in all gardening. Without... Read More

A Teak Chair - Create a Livable Outdoor Space with One

When creating a comfortable, usable outdoor space, nothing could me... Read More

How to Make Your Backyard a Wonderland Oasis

Home and garden accessories make the difference between house and... Read More

History of the Adirondack Chair

If you were to travel to Blue Mountain Lake, New... Read More

Release Some Tension...Spend Some Time In Your Garden

Gardening can be one of the most rewarding and relaxing... Read More

Summer Pond Tips

Low Oxygen levels Kill FishUse an oxygen tester and air... Read More

Gift Ideas for Bird Lovers

Some of the best gifts you can give to a... Read More

Composting - aka: The Circle of Life!

Composting is where the gardening thing comes full circle. You've... Read More

Teak Adirondack Chairs

Outdoor furniture constructed with teak wood is a favorite among... Read More

Flower Meanings

Certain types or colors of flowers mean different things, and... Read More

The Flower Garden in August

Our flower garden in August can be brimming with activities... Read More

The Rich History of Chrysanthemums

Did you know that those lush, colorful blooms called chrysanthemums... Read More

Using Push Reel Mowers

If you're not familiar with push reel mowers or if... Read More

Adirondack Chairs - How to Care for and Clean Them

Different from any other chair, the Adirondack chair was first... Read More

Gardening for Kids

Children are continually bombarded with advertising for fast food and... Read More

Tranquility in Your Own Back Yard

A garden fountain can add beauty and serenity to you... Read More

Lawn Care Business Owners - Dont Buy Yourself A Job

Most businesses consist of the owner only or the owner... Read More

Commercial and Residential Flagpoles

The world's tallest unsupported flagpole is located in Amman, Jordan.... Read More

Rosemary: The Herb of Remembrance and Friendship

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly called rosemary is an aromatic herb indigenous... Read More

Plant A Simple Tea Garden

Materials Needed 1 decorative clay or metal planter 1 package... Read More

It?s Gardening Season!

It's gardening season again! Are you ready? Whether you are... Read More