Text by Holly Seng
Bring enchanting cottage charm to your outdoor oasis with the help of these essential elements.
Sit & Stay Awhile
Overflowing with splendid sights and fragrant floral notes, the beauty a garden brings is meant to be enjoyed. Take pleasure in the fruits of your labor by creating a relaxing place to rest and rejuvenate—whether it be a swing or table and chairs. Wood and iron furnishings are sure to lend classic cottage appeal while cushions add comfort and can easily be switched out.
Adventure Awaits
Winding pathways foster curiosity as they encourage guests to explore the garden, in hopes of discovering what breathtaking scene lies ahead. Set a relaxed and casual ambience that enhances nature’s unrestrained elegance with curved lines as opposed to keeping things strictly linear.
Nature’s Song
A garden should appeal to all the senses—from sight to sound. When it comes to sound, nothing comes close to the songlike chirping of birds or soothing splashes of water. Enjoy a tranquil tone by incorporating a water feature, whether it be a birdbath or fountain. For a more whimsical approach, opt for a birdhouse. With endless possibilities for customization, let your creativity take the lead as you construct a fanciful avian abode.
On the Fence
Secure your space in style with a white picket fence that combines form and function. Climbing roses, towering floral hedges, and cascading blooms soften the boundary and lend the quintessential laid-back feel a cottage garden evokes.
Higher Ground
Raised beds are all the rage, and it’s no surprise given the countless benefits they bring, from easing garden maintenance to better soil drainage and an extended growing season. Ideal for small vegetable crops or flowers, elevated planters will transform any space in your backyard into the perfect gardening plot.
Plans for Planting
Cottage garden beds are known for being filled to maximum capacity, but don’t let their carefree countenance fool you—the approach is anything but haphazard. When selecting plant varieties, embrace differences in height, texture, and shape to optimize visual interest. Color palettes can emphasize contrast yet create an overall cohesive look when used throughout your garden.
Creative Containers
Add character to your space and find innovative ways to showcase your blooms. A small wooden wheelbarrow with weathered, sky blue paint offers an unexpected playful touch. Repurpose everything from tin buckets to wooden boxes for sustainable ways to display your prized plants in style.
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