For a remarkable experience in learning tips for a garden makeover, take a walk with Trent Hutchinson, owner of Blue Moon Landscaping, as he shares his creative vision used to transform this ordinary Midlands lakeside yard into a beautiful garden sanctuary.
“I think one of the most important aspects of creating gardens and garden structures is to find areas and small tucked-in pockets which invite you into that space and lure you around the next corner,” Trent says. He explains that when considering the design, the plants, hardscape materials and the exposure (sun or shade) are essential elements to understand when planning the garden.
“The goal in this location was to create a path with plants and natural stone, adding diversity while accenting the architectural features of the existing trees,” Trent explains. “The plant selection provides different points of interest from the wide variegated margins on the hosta to the free form structure and white blooms of the itea. The ivy and moss provide a natural ground cover, and the azaleas fill in the backdrop and provide seasonal blooming in the spring.”
“This photograph captures the large natural stone step treads that were needed not only to act as access but also to retrain the slope. The retaining wall to the left was structurally required to retain the slope and also serves as a large planter area with various shrubs and annual color that ties into a water feature.”
“The thing that gets people most excited is color,” Trent says. “The variations in the plants, textures, blooms and colors allow for a brightness in the garden that enthusiasts enjoy during various seasons. Some gardeners enjoy being able to take cuttings and create homemade bouquets to adorn their home.” (Clockwise from top left) Happy returns day lily, pink Knock Out® rose and oak leaf hydrangea.
“The plantings at the garden entrance are comprised of cool greens and welcoming whites,” says Trent. “The large billowing oak leaf hydrangea that encompasses the lamp post also forms a privacy screen along the property line border. The blue-green color and texture of the hosta help accent the white violas in the retaining wall planter bed.”
“Water features are that special something that evoke pride among gardeners or those who spend time in the garden,” says Trent. “The soothing sound of water serves to relax and calm those nearby –– and wildlife enjoy taking a dip or a drink. The scale of the water feature is one of the most critical components when deciding what type of feature to install. This could range from permanently installed waterfalls and below-grade ponds to self-contained fountains. This natural terrain allows for a waterfall from the hillside to flow down into the pond below. The underwater lighting allows for a soft glow during the twilight hour. The plants in this photo include autumn fern, distylium (vintage jade), sarccocca, lace leaf Japanese maple, cephalataxus prostrata and Florida anise.”
“Another material commonly used for pathways includes natural stone. These can vary in size, shape and color, usually ranging from tans and browns to grays and grayish blues. This is a great way to create a level, accessible pathway that lends itself to a natural look in the garden. It also allows for planting the spaces between the stones with various forms of low-growing ground cover.”
