Summer Borders: A Guide to Creating Stunning Displays
Plan Your Perfect Borders
Before you start planting, take some time to assess your current borders. Are they wide enough to give your plants room to grow? Do you have a variety of plants in different heights and colors? Are your plants placed in the right spots for their sun and shade needs?
Essential Elements for Successful Borders
Long-Lasting Color: Choose plants that bloom throughout the summer, such as perennials, annuals, and shrubs.
Variety in Height: Incorporate plants of different heights to create visual interest. Taller plants can provide a backdrop for smaller ones, while shorter plants can fill in the gaps.
Border Structure: Add structure to your borders with hedges, trees, or ornamental grasses. These elements will help to define the space and provide support for your plants.
Right Plant, Right Place: Choose plants that are suited to your soil and climate conditions. Sun-loving plants should be placed in sunny spots, while shade-loving plants should be placed in shady areas.
Thrifty Tips for Beautiful Borders
- Buy smaller plants and grow them yourself to save money.
- Take cuttings from existing plants to propagate new ones for free.
- Swap plants with friends and neighbors to get new varieties without spending money.
Summer Border Inspiration
Visit other gardens to see stunning examples of summer borders. Some of the best gardens to visit for summer border inspiration include:
- Kew Gardens in Richmond, Surrey
- Powis Castle and Garden in Montgomeryshire
- Sussex Prairie Gardens in Sussex
- Bressingham Gardens in Norfolk
- Levens Hall in Cumbria
By following these tips, you can create beautiful summer borders that will add color and life to your garden all season long.
