In a cottage garden, a variety of plants are used to create a charming and picturesque atmosphere. These gardens are often characterized by their abundance of flowering and colorful plants, as well as their relaxed and informal style. Here are some of the commonly used plants in a cottage garden:
1. Roses: Roses are a quintessential plant in a cottage garden. Their beautiful blooms, fragrant scent, and variety of colors make them a popular choice. Old-fashioned varieties, such as English roses or climbing roses, are especially well-suited for cottage gardens.
2. Herbs: Many cottage gardens incorporate herbs for both culinary and decorative purposes. Herbs like lavender, rosemary, thyme, and sage not only add fragrance and texture to the garden but can also be used in cooking and for medicinal purposes.
3. Perennials: Perennials are a staple in cottage gardens due to their reliable return year after year. Some popular choices include delphiniums, lupines, peonies, and daisies. These plants add height, color, and structure to the garden.
4. Annuals: Annuals are also commonly used in cottage gardens to provide continuous color and variety. Flowers like cosmos, zinnias, marigolds, and sweet peas are often planted to fill in gaps and add pops of vibrant hues.
5. Climbing plants: To create a sense of vertical interest and add height to the garden, climbing plants are often incorporated. Clematis, jasmine, honeysuckle, and climbing roses are popular choices. They can be trained to grow over arches, trellises, or fences, adding a whimsical touch to the garden.
6. Wildflowers: Natural and wild-looking flowers are key in a cottage garden. Poppies, cornflowers, daisies, and black-eyed Susans are examples of wildflowers that can be scattered throughout the garden to create a more natural and relaxed feel.
7. Bulbs: Spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths can be planted in the fall to provide early color and a burst of blooms in the cottage garden. These bulbs can be tucked in between other plants or planted in clusters for a more dramatic effect.
8. Groundcovers: Groundcovers are useful in cottage gardens to fill in empty spaces and suppress weeds. Plants like creeping thyme, creeping phlox, and vinca minor can be used to create a carpet of color and texture.
9. Vining plants: Vining plants add a whimsical and romantic touch to a cottage garden. Sweet peas, morning glories, and clematis can be trained to grow up trellises or fences, adding vertical interest and a profusion of blooms.
10. Bulbs: Spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths can be planted in the fall to provide early color and a burst of blooms in the cottage garden. These bulbs can be tucked in between other plants or planted in clusters for a more dramatic effect.
These are just some of the many plants that can be used in a cottage garden. The key is to create a harmonious mix of colors, textures, and heights to achieve the charming and natural look that defines a cottage garden. Experiment with different combinations and don’t be afraid to let the plants grow and intertwine in an informal manner, embracing the wildness and beauty of nature.
