When planning a cottage garden from scratch, there are several important factors to consider. By following these steps, you can create a charming and bountiful garden that embraces the cottage garden style.
1. Assess your space: Begin by evaluating the size and layout of your garden area. Cottage gardens are typically compact, so it’s important to make the most of the available space. Consider the dimensions of your garden and how it relates to your house. Embrace the traditional cottage garden style by placing the garden right up against your house, creating a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.
2. Define your garden’s purpose: Determine what you want to achieve with your cottage garden. Are you looking to create a peaceful retreat, a vibrant flower garden, or a productive vegetable and herb garden? Clarifying your goals will help guide your design choices.
3. Choose your plants: Cottage gardens are known for their dense and diverse plantings. Select a mix of annuals, perennials, herbs, and shrubs that will thrive in your climate and soil conditions. Consider incorporating plants that have different flowering times to ensure year-round color and interest.
4. Plan your layout: Unlike traditional gardens, cottage gardens don’t adhere to strict design principles. Instead, they have an informal and slightly wild appearance. Consider creating curving pathways and planting beds that meander through the garden, adding a sense of charm and whimsy. Group plants together in clusters to create a layered and lush effect.
5. Consider height and structure: Cottage gardens often feature a mix of plant heights and structures, creating a visually appealing and dynamic landscape. Incorporate tall plants such as hollyhocks or delphiniums towards the back of the garden, with medium-sized plants in the middle, and low-growing plants towards the front. Include structures like trellises, arbors, or fences for climbing plants to add vertical interest.
6. Provide support and care: As your cottage garden grows, some plants may require support to prevent them from flopping over. Install stakes or trellises for taller plants, and consider using pea sticks or other supports for climbing plants. Regularly deadhead spent flowers and keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases to ensure the health and vitality of your garden.
7. Embrace the cottage garden aesthetic: Cottage gardens are known for their whimsical and romantic feel. Consider adding charming elements such as birdhouses, garden ornaments, and seating areas to enhance the overall ambiance. Incorporate a mix of textures, colors, and fragrances to create a sensory experience that truly embodies the cottage garden style.
Remember, planning and creating a cottage garden is a personal journey, and there are no strict rules to follow. Allow your creativity to guide you, and don’t be afraid to experiment and make adjustments as your garden evolves over time. Enjoy the process and the beauty that a cottage garden brings to your home.
