I’ve been doing more installations in the neighborhoods of The Fan District, Jackson Ward, The Museum District and Carytown. These small spaces sometimes get stressed by an overwhelming amount of ideas…. So let me breakdown how to fit everything together.
Maximize Vertical Space:
- Utilize walls and fences with planters, trellises, or vertical gardens. This allows you to grow vining plants, vegetables, herbs, or flowers without sacrificing ground space. Consider using hanging baskets or wall-mounted pockets for additional greenery.
- Implement espalier techniques. Espalier trains climbing plants or fruit trees to grow flat against a wall or fence. This is a great way to add a touch of elegance and functionality to a small space.
Emphasize Design and Scale:
- Select compact plants and dwarf varieties of trees and shrubs. This ensures your plantings won’t overwhelm the space as they mature.
- Create designated walkways and pathways using materials like gravel, pavers, or stepping stones. This will define areas within your space and make it feel more organized.
- Implement container gardening strategically. Pots and planters allow you to arrange plants for maximum impact and easily reconfigure your design whenever you wish.
Enhance Perception of Space:
- Incorporate mirrors strategically placed to reflect light and create the illusion of a larger area.
- Utilize light-colored elements like stones, mulch, or pavers for walkways. This brightens the space and visually expands it.
- Opt for curved walkways or planting beds instead of straight lines. Curved lines soften the space and add a touch of visual interest.
Cultivate Ambiance:
- String lights, lanterns, or solar-powered fixtures can add soft lighting for nighttime enjoyment.
- Introduce a small water feature like a fountain or birdbath. The sound of trickling water adds a tranquil touch and attracts pollinators.
- Incorporate comfortable seating like a bench or bistro set to create an inviting space to relax and enjoy your outdoor haven.
Think Beyond the Expected:
- Explore the possibility of a small container water garden. Water lilies or lotus can add a beautiful and serene touch to a patio or balcony.
- Hang mobiles or wind chimes to add a touch of personality and movement to your space.
By following these landscaping tips from Cranes Creek, you can transform your small space into a beautiful and functional outdoor retreat. If you’d like us to add your water feature, select the appropriate herbs, shrubs and plants, call John for a free consultation 804-404-8801.