Easy Gardens: Styles for Everyone

While the gardener may want to create a type of formal English garden, the location of the land, the house, the climate and the individual’s free time all need to be considered. If the garden will be planted in a rural area prone to wildlife a formal garden might look out of place or be difficult to maintain, just as a container garden would be out of place in a large open area. Before planting the garden consider the type of garden that best fits the area:

Five Basic Garden Types:

1. Formal Garden
2. Wildlife or Countryside Garden
3. Water Garden
4. Raised Bed Garden
5. Container Garden

Each garden type has distinctive advantages, depending on the gardener’s needs and locale. Some gardeners want a well manicured garden while another person might desire the easier maintenance and natural appearance of a countryside garden. A water garden can offer tranquility but be quite a bit of work in an arid environment. Some people enjoy the peace and tranquility provided by a flower garden while others will enjoy the satisfaction of growing their own fruit and vegetables.

Garden Decisions:

• Available space – the amount of space available is paramount to deciding what type of garden to plant. Large plot areas could easily handle all garden types however; a raised bed area may look out of place in a front yard.
• Garden purpose – is the garden area intended for creating a relaxing area surrounding a patio or for entertaining? Is the garden area planned to attract and act as a wildlife refuge? Maybe the intent is to supplement the family’s diet with fresh vegetables. Decide what the purpose will be before planning the space.
• Available time – playing in dirt is a labor of love for many gardeners, but still a labor. Deciding how much time can be dedicated to the care and perpetual maintenance of the beds is a primary consideration. Don’t plan or plant more than can be easily handled by both the available time and fitness of the gardener.

By considering these garden elements and decision points the gardener will avoid replanning, replanting and regret. Taking the time to sketch out garden ideas and researching the types of plants desired will also make the process of putting in a garden much easier. For more information on putting in a garden be sure to read Five Top Garden Questions to Ask.

When the style is selected, the planning complete and the urge to buy plants takes hold this is the time to take a deep breath, step back and research plants. Don’t waste all the preplanning!

Happy Gardening