A harmonious and flowing garden design is an essential element in transforming one's outdoor space into an oasis of tranquility and beauty. At Penwarne Landscaping, we are committed to empowering people through simple garden design principles that improve the aesthetic appeal and functionality of their gardens.
With years of experience in the industry, we recognize the importance of creating a balance between hardscape elements and softscape elements in garden design. Integrating elements such as patios, decks, walkways, and water features can add structure and organization to a garden while providing a focal point for its design. Incorporating plants, trees, and shrubbery in garden design adds color, texture, and depth. Native plant species are always a preferred option as they thrive in their natural environment and require less maintenance. Additionally, planting perennials that bloom during different seasons ensures continuous color throughout the year. We believe that good garden design should consider the garden's exposure to sunlight, soil type, and water drainage. Understanding these factors helps us to make informed decisions regarding plant and hardscape placement. As a sustainable landscape design company, we encourage our clients to incorporate eco-friendly practices in their gardens. Water conservation practices, such as rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation systems, prevent water wastage while reducing water bills. Additionally, using organic fertilizers and pest control methods promote biodiversity and protects the environment. At Penwarne Landscaping, we pride ourselves in providing personalized garden design services tailored to our clients' needs and preferences. Our team of expert garden designers is always available to offer advice and guidance on garden design, installation, and maintenance. In conclusion, implementing harmonious and flowing garden design principles can transform any outdoor space into an inviting oasis of tranquility and beauty. By integrating hardscape and softscape elements, considering the garden's sun exposure, soil type, and water drainage, and incorporating eco-friendly practices, we can create a sustainable and vibrant garden environment that re-connects you with nature.
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Most, if not all gardens there will exist an area subjected to shade, an area of comparative darkness and coolness caused by a shelter from the direct sunlight.
As the summer approaches and the strength of the sun’s rays increase, the shady areas which are often neglected should perhaps be embraced and appreciated more. Shade is created by buildings, walls, fences or tree top canopies and when a solid structure is the cause, more often than not, it will provide protection against wind too. This microclimate can provide a pleasant seating area on a hard or soft landscaped surface, providing protection from the midday sun and strong winds. Climbing plants which are suitable to grow in shade are:
Certain types of climbing roses are also shade tolerant and some climbers are more vigorous than others which should be taken into consideration. Shrubs can be planted directly into the ground or the use of pots maybe more appropriate. As with climbers, many shrubs can provide a profusion of colour within an area of comparative darkness. Popular shrubs for growing in the shade are:
There are numerous other shrubs which are compatible with shade and it is advisable to research online or a visit to a nearby garden centre. The average temperature will also has a huge affect on the plants growing rate and an area of shade is most likely to have a North or North Easterly aspect and subject to cold, if not freezing temperatures during the winter. This should be taken into consideration before plant selection. Treetop canopies can provide full shade to a dapple shade and the choice of planting here should be more akin to a natural woodland environment. These would be perennials which return each year such as:
The above, once again can bring great colour and vibrancy to an otherwise sombre section of the garden. Therefore, no longer be kept in the dark, surround oneself with an abundance of colour and sally forth into the shade. They maybe all around us now and covering large areas of the garden, often regarded as a hindrance when it comes to the maintenance of a neat and tidy garden. But, alas, leaves falling to the ground is a message from nature which one should take heed of, and that message being leaf matter is the best natural and free mulch available for the gardener and grower.
Fallen leaves can be found residing in many areas, from resting on the lawn to wind blown corners of the garden and now is the time to sally forth and gather. A large pile of leaves can be transmuted into leaf mould, the decomposed matter formed when the leaves have decayed over time. The leaves can be stored in plastic bin liner bags with a few holes pierced in the sides and bottom, once full, a sprinkling of water is advisable then storage in a shady area of the garden is essential and the following autumn the rotten leaves form a crumbly rich surface mulch. To be left for a second or third year will allow for increased decomposition of the leaf matter and this, with its added microbes, can then be used as a conditioner and soil enhancer which can be dug into the soil to aid in water retention for drier ground and for improving drainage in heavier soils. If preferred a leaf storage bin can be constructed and there are numerous methods of construction, one composed of chicken wire which permits air to travel through, being the most simple. Once a large amount of leaves have been placed into the bin, apply a sprinkling of water and then cover with some black plastic sheeting on top to encourage the decomposition. Leaf mulch is high in nutrients which will pass slowly into the ground below. As with all mulches it prevents the ground from drying out during the summer months and from becoming too cold or even freezing in the winter months. It also reduces the opportunity for the unwanted plants referred to as weeds to grow. The leaves can be gathered regularly as they fall with hand tools such as a rake or broom, a lawn mower can be used on a higher setting to collect leaves from the lawn whilst shredding at the same time. If the leaves are not collected soon after falling, then they will dry out and loose their nutrients. If your own garden is devoid of fallen leaves then maybe ask the neighbours, I am sure they would be happy with the assistance of leaf clearing. Or vice-versa, others in the neighbourhood may require leaf mulch too. The coming together can create a community free leaf mulch, this way the local gardens will never be without a mulch or compost. It is advisable to avoid leaves which have been lying on roadsides, they may contain toxins. Certain leaves will break down faster than others, Horse Chestnut leaves taking longer than Oak leaves. The leaves from Walnut and Eucalyptus do contain a natural herbicide, this may inhibit the growth of plants within the area the mulch or mould is applied. The splendour of the autumnal colours from bright yellow to orange to a crimson red, it is one of natures finest displays, the deciduous trees then sleeping for the winter months. They took nutrients from the ground to assist their growth during spring and summer, and now is the time to give back to nature and this can be achieved by gathering the fallen leaves and making a leaf mulch or mould full of natural nutrients. Contribution by Oliver David Cook |
Welcome!Here at Penwarne Landscaping we are all passionate about gardens, and believe that outdoor spaces are just as important as indoor ones! In this blog, we regularly share our expertise along with tips and tricks that you can use to make the most of your garden and home. Archives
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