Weekly tip: Tips for gardening in small spaces

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on April 21, 2012 at 5:30 AM, updated May 18, 2012 at 5:32 PM
red.chair.JPGView full sizeSoften the edges of hardscapes with plants and don't be afraid to add color.

Use planters, columns, screens, art pieces and other nonpermanent items to create a space. Look at the space as a room, with plants and hardscapes as the furniture (and feel free to rearrange).

Choose plants with four seasons of interest.


Don't be afraid to experiment and mix up styles.

Pay attention to detail. In smaller spaces, details stand out. Use things that have meaning to you or your family.

Consider maintenance. People often think it's OK to design a high-maintenance garden in a small space because small automatically means less work, then they let deadheading, pruning and other chores slide. The result is much more evident in a tiny garden.


Repeat, but repeat with texture, form and color rather than plants. If you have all the same kind of plants in a small area, it's boring.

Have a focal point or a wow factor. Choose dwarf or semi-dwarf conifers or shrubs with golden, blue or variegated foliage, something you look at and say, "Now, that's cool."

Keep hardscapes small and versatile. For instance, in one corner where you have a chair in the summer, switch to a pedestal for a plant in winter.

Don't use just bark mulch. Use a mixture of ground covers to add interest.

-- Kym Pokorny
