One of the best parts about having a garden is the bright colors it adds to your landscape. Whether you’re gardening in front, out back, or in containers, you can apply the following tips to make the most of the stunning colors available in your area.
1. Plant & Repeat
You probably have a favorite color that you use in your garden. Well, use it over and over. Plant splashes of that color throughout your garden to draw your attention wherever you like it most.
2. Go Bright
Brightly-colored flowers such as red, orange, magenta and bright yellow will definitely energize your landscape. Bright sunlight will accentuate these colors, attracting the eye even from far away. Just remember: if you pair bright colors with darker, more intense ones, the brights will definitely grab the spotlight.
3. To Every Season…
Don’t be afraid to let your garden turn with the seasons. It’s easy to plan different colors for each season if you’re aware of each plant’s blooming time. Try perennial bulbs that flower purple, pink, or blue in spring, then deeper pinks and reds for the middle of summer. For fall, you’re sure to find plenty of golden oranges and reds that really pop while other flowers have finished blooming.
4. Don’t Fear the Shade
Using lighter colored plants can help even shady areas appear brighter, while darker plants tend to disappear visually. Colors such as light yellow, pink, light blue, lavender, or white work well. If you choose to use some darker colors in a shade garden, surround them with lighter colors to help them be seen.
5. Layer, Layer, Layer
Try planting horizontal bands of color in your garden, even if you accomplish the look with different varieties of plants in the same shade. Layers add variety, interest, and most important, depth. If you don’t have a large garden, layering can make it look bigger and deeper.
6. Pastels for Tranquility
If you’re looking for a peaceful, tranquil vibe, try planting a garden of pastels. Delicate shades of light yellow, purple, and pink can add color without making things look too scattered.
7. Don’t Go Color Crazy
Of course you want a colorful garden, but you might actually create more interest if you limit your shades to a particular family that blends well. If you simplify your color scheme, each color you choose will have more impact.
8. Go Big
Many color schemes are more effective when you plant in large groups of the same color. You’ll create a stunning look by using this technique, and you won’t have to buy so many different types of plants.
9. Let Containers Make a Statement
Whether your garden consists of all containers or you just add a few, remember that flowers aren’t the only way to make a colorful statement. Don’t be afraid to choose bold containers and plan out how they’re arranged — they’ll help you create maximum impact.
10. Try Monochrome
Believe it or not, gardens consisting of mainly one color can be stunning — especially when it’s your favorite color. Use varying textures, heights, and shades to keep things interesting.
Leave a Reply