I approach my garden design much like a painting composition. Every section in my garden is a separate vignette, with its own color palette and emotional appeal. But the garden as a whole tells a larger story, plantings flowing from one to another, creating an organization of elements that give both paintings and gardens their overall visual integrity. The composition needs continuity, balance, repetition, contrast and movement to create this affect.

When I sketch outside, I sometimes use a picture frame mat so I can “zero in” on a specific area. It unclutters my view, so I am able to concentrate on a portion of my picture. You can use the same process to evaluate sections of your garden. Does the “framed art” have elements that create interest? Does the design use line, color, texture, shapes and forms that work within the entire framework? Using this method may help you resolve a design issue in your garden that doesn’t seem to stand on its own, nor blend into the overall garden design.

When planning our gardens, we are drawn to the glorious colors on seed packets, and work diligently to create attractive color schemes. Color does create big impact and commands the greatest response, so make sure your color combination extends beyond just the blooms. The foliage, bark, and fruit also contribute to the overall color impact. Here are examples of plants that have great overall color appeal.

 Texture, shape, and form increase the aesthetic appeal of the garden. Up close, the focus is on the surface of leaves, twigs, bark, and flowers, but viewed from a distance, the interplay of light and shadow becomes more important.

Paring opposites can create visual excitement.

Fine  vs. coarse-bold

Artemisia Fringed Sage

Castor Bean Impala

small vs. large

Alyssum Sweet Tiny Tim

Artichoke

 light vs. dark

Lime Basil

Redbor Kale

round vs. upright

Kale Chidori Red

Ornamental Millet