Many of us recall the old-fashioned gardens of our grandparents or other relatives and neighbours.

These were usually a hodge-podge of flower and foliage plants.

It seemed that gardens, rather than being planned, more or less “happened” or more likely evolved.

As the gardener fancied something new or was given a plant by a friend, it was inserted into an available blank spot. Where yards were small and space was limited, these mixed gardens combined whatever was at hand. The end result often had an individual charm that was undeniable and delightful.

There’s no reason, of course, why we can’t create a similarly informal effect in a modern garden. For those with limited garden space, a mixed garden makes especially good sense. It allows us to have some of our personal favorites, rather than limiting us to only a few kinds of plants-as is the case of massed garden designs.

Uniquely charming mixed gardens are possible.

A mixed garden is a very personal one that truly reflects the individual taste of the homeowners. Rather than being a garden for show, it’s a garden designed for the pleasure of those who own it. If others who visit it also find it enjoyable so much the better.

Fruit trees can supply partial shade to flower beds filled with combinations of different-coloured annuals and perennials.

Clumps of favourite vegetables can also be placed among these flowering plants.

Create a shade garden without trees by planting under a vine-covered arbor. Shade gardens can feature serene blends of ferns plus a few dazzling bloomers such as azaleas and rhododendrons.
Although these plants usually grow amid trees and shrubs, they can thrive in shadows cast by other structures-walls, fences, houses, or a vine-covered arbor.
The advantage of an arbor shade garden is that fewer roots are competing for moisture and nutrients.
And unlike planting close to a wall or building, the arbor shade garden has plenty of fresh air circulation. In addition, an arbor looks great when clad in flowers and handsome foliage.
Reduce the volume of strong winds by planting a layered assortment of plants as a windbreak. Wind can knock down and dry out plants, generally making it harder to get the garden to grow well. Layered plants-taller trees with shade-tolerant shrubs planted under them create an irregular barrier that gently stops wind. Solid fences, in contrast, allow wind to slip up and over and swirl back in on the other side.
Don’t forget to place a bench in the garden. You can sit and admire your handiwork, which always looks best up close. Your bench, even a rugged one, can double as a garden sculpture
If you don’t want to be limited to only a few kinds and colours of flowers in your garden, consider planting a mixed garden.
Note, sunlight, soil and water are the big three essentials when it comes to gardening. Every plant needs adequate light, moisture and nutrients from the soil to thrive. Learn how to assess your garden conditions.

(Derived from TLC –A Discovery Company)

(By Clifford Stanley)