Green Thumbs Up

Hey Designers,

This is my favorite time of year, when it's finally warmed up enough to ditch my spring coat, yet cool enough not to need the A.C. I've even taken to gardening, again. Yes, I've done bits and pieces here and there (plant pots mainly). But this year, I decided to go big and actually plant flowers! Here are the before and after pics:

Before - soil not yet prepped

Before - prepping the soil

I had help from my Mom and my neighbors kids jumped it too. But I know what you're thinking, yes, I actually got down and dug. The proof is in my nails.

Here is the garden the next day:

After - view from the side

After - frontal view

After - other side

I enjoyed this entire thing immensely. And there's still more to show. I also planted seeds, so that'll take a few more weeks before you will be able to see those. Can't wait. Additionally, see the rocks in the back of this last pic? They have to be removed too.

Given this was my first time ever planting flowers in the ground (I usually hang in baskets, etc.) I did a ton of research. Here's what I picked up:

1. Perennials are better. If you're going to dish out cash for this stuff, buy the flowers that come back year after year. That's pretty awesome. Annuals, though cheaper you have to replant every year.
2. Color coordinate. For visual interest, don't pick colors in the same group, e.g. red, pink and white. Go for contrasts like orange and green/blue, purple and yellow, etc. 
3. Ornamental Grasses and ferns are just as pretty. If you're not into buying flowers and maintaining them, ornamental grasses and ferns can be really attractive and come in a variety of colors. Try fountain feather grasses, they have a little bit of bloom to them.
4. Plan, plan, plan. I can't say that enough. Figure out what zone you're in, then plant what you like in a timely manner. Also, figure out what each plant will cost before committing. I surfed the web to find plants that work in my zone, were affordable, and needed minimal care. Drought resistant, hello!
5. Landscape design: figure out the arrangement you like best for maximum impact.When you think of a garden what comes to mind? Zen, entertainment, wildlife, romance? Pick one and work with that theme. HGTV.com has good ideas for designing the type you like.

I'll keep you all posted on my green thumb developments. I'm hoping it will go a lot better this year.

Happy designing!

Kyla

P.s. Gardening also counts as good exercise, my arms testify ;-)