The main goal when designing each of our gardens was to create a cottage garden aesthetic with an atmosphere that drew people in and enticed visitors to venture through the connecting spaces, leaving a bit of mystery as to what was around the corner. We ran into a few challenges along the way but have enjoyed the outcome. Keep reading to learn about some of our farm-favorite plants that help create a cottage garden feel.
Most of our gardens are symmetrical with raised and in-ground beds being square or rectangle, with the exception of four “L shaped” beds in the North Garden (seen below during construction). These two design elements allowed us to create paths that wrap around each bed, allowing a 360 degree view of every growing space. The layout allows viewers to walk straight through, or take paths between, around, and through the gardens, completely immersing themselves in the magic of flowers.
Pathways
Because I wanted a lush cottage garden aesthetic, I had to combat the blunt, straight edges of the beds and paths. To do so, I opted for pavers with rounded edges and spaced them in a cobblestone manner. Marrying gravel with the pavers was another step in adding dimension and a natural material that would withstand heavy foot traffic as well as wheelbarrows and our trusty Gorilla Carts.
Plant selection
Once our pathway materials were selected, we were intentional with our plant selection and location. In the rose garden, roses were planted at the center of each bed. We chose shorter, bushier plants for the corners and edges. Allowing these plants to spill over the confines of the beds and into pathways adds to the cottage garden feel we aimed to achieve.
Herbs
I found myself consistently reaching for herbs to utilize in this manner, knowing that as we walked the paths and brushed by the plants, calming scents would fill the air. Plants, such as the cinnamon basil and hyssop, pictured below, are favorites for scent, shape, and attracting pollinators.
Continuing with the cottage garden theme, we added interest by grouping various heights and colors in our plant selections. We use both annuals and perennials for this.
Scabiosa adds height and a bit of whimsy with a wild growth habit, color, and excellent cut flower qualities.
Flowering Tobacco and Veronica add spikes of color, while gomphrena pom-poms dance around in the wind adding movement. Ageratum, a bee magnet brings a gentle buzz to the garden as it topples over and roots into the pathways.
Note: Ageratum has a growth habit similar to mint, and it will also reseed easily. If you don’t want the task of keeping it semi-contained, skip this one.
Bee balm, loved by bees and salvia, a hummingbird favorite, are quick growing options that add color and blooms.
Angelonia and mint add lush greenery to any garden and both will flower. A bonus is that they are heat-tolerant, a must for our climate.
A few other favorites we’ve used to achieve a cottage garden aesthetic are listed below:
- Lemon balm
- Basil
- Lemongrass
- Zinnias
- Balsam
- Foxglove
- Pineapple Sage
- Pansies
- Violas
- Calendula
- Snapdragons
Do you prefer a formal english style garden or a whimsical cottage style garden?
If you enjoyed this post, head over to our “Clematis” post.
