Parterre Gardens: A Victorian Legacy of Symmetry and Beauty
What is a Parterre Garden?
Parterre gardens are beautiful and symmetrical gardens that were popular during the Victorian era in England. They feature intricate patterns created by low-growing plants, herbs, and flowers. Parterre gardens are a great way to add a touch of Victorian charm to your landscape.
History of Parterre Gardens
The Victorian era lasted from 1837 to 1901 and was a time of great change in England. The country was becoming increasingly industrialized, and the middle class was growing in size and influence. This new social class wanted to show off their wealth and status, and one way they did this was by creating elaborate gardens.
Parterre gardens were a popular way to display plants and flowers in a controlled and orderly manner. They were often used to create a sense of symmetry and balance in the landscape. Parterre gardens were also a way to show off the owner’s wealth and taste.
Types of Parterre Gardens
There are many different types of parterre gardens, each with its own unique design. Some of the most common types include:
- Knot gardens: These gardens are characterized by their intricate Celtic knot designs.
- Embroidered parterres: These gardens feature patterns that are created by planting different colored plants in a regular grid.
- Compartmented parterres: These gardens are divided into compartments by low hedges or walls.
- Cut-work parterres: These gardens feature patterns that are created by cutting designs into the turf.
- Water parterres: These gardens incorporate water features, such as fountains or pools.
- Parterres a l’anglaise: These gardens are characterized by their informal, naturalistic designs.
How to Create a Parterre Garden
Creating a parterre garden is a fun and rewarding project. Here are the steps involved:
- Choose a location: Parterre gardens can be created in sunny or shady locations. However, if you want to grow vegetables in your parterre, it is best to choose a sunny location.
- Sketch out your design: The first step is to sketch out your design on paper. You can use a simple cross-shaped pattern or get more creative with triangles and other geometric shapes.
- Prepare the soil: Once you have your design, it is time to prepare the soil. This involves amending the soil with compost or manure and checking the drainage and pH.
- Line out your pattern: Use stakes and string to line out your pattern on the ground. This will help you stay on track when you start planting.
- Choose your plants: The next step is to choose your plants. For the outer border, you will want to use plants that are easy to maintain and will not grow too tall. Boxwoods are a traditional choice, but you can also use yews or other plants that respond well to shearing. For the interior pattern, you can use a variety of plants, such as heathers, lavender, or other shrubby herbs.
- Plant your design: Start planting your design from the center and work your way out. This will help you avoid stepping on your work.
- Water and watch your design grow: Once you have planted your design, water it well and watch it grow. Parterre gardens are a great way to add color and interest to your landscape, and they are also a fun way to learn about history and gardening.
Tips for Creating a Parterre Garden
Here are a few tips for creating a beautiful and successful parterre garden:
- Use a variety of plants to create interest and texture.
- Keep your plants well-maintained by watering, fertilizing, and pruning them regularly.
- Add a focal point to your design, such as a dwarf fruit tree, fountain, or sundial.
- Be patient! Parterre gardens take time to grow and mature.