Create a spectacular, colourful garden
Colourful gardens cheer us up, attract pollinators and turn outside spaces from average to sensational. Variety as they say, is the spice of life so there shouldn’t be any set rules for garden colour schemes but sometimes it’s hard to choose, especially with the array of summer choices around.
As garden designers, we often get asked to incorporate set colour schemes into the plan – and frequently get requests to help choose the colours ourselves. But there is much more to consider than just the colours – see more on this below.
In this issue, as well as discussing all things visual, we also have some ideas to tickle the senses of sound and taste …
Sit back and enjoy!
Chris & all the Bushy team
Zinnia
This summer sizzler is available in a rich colour range from pinks, oranges and reds to green and white. They’re a delightful addition to garden beds and dazzling in a container. They also make good cut flower displays – although save some for the pollinating insects!
Planting by Colour
Colours set the mood in your garden; red, orange and yellow add cheer, energy and vibrancy, blue and green create a sense of calm and purples and blues a feeling of tranquillity. Neutral colours like grey and white are handy for blending in or providing contrast.
When choosing a garden colour palette you could just go with personal taste – and you should certainly use your favourite colours but you might want to consider these factors too: you’ll want colour in every season in the garden; some shades go better together than others; and what will work in the setting? Think about the colours of existing surroundings – walls, paving, fencing etc.
Select containers, furniture and accessories that repeat certain key colours to give a cohesive feel. Other colours can be used sparingly for pops of contrast and to enhance the main themes. Or you could choose different colour schemes for different zones in the garden. We can help you plan, taking into account flower bloom times, plant size and textures etc to create the perfect result.
Sublime dining
Make the most of the summer evenings and dine outside. We like the neutral colours of some garden furniture sets currently as they contrast well with most colour schemes, like this one that is inspired by French style. This Toulon Compact Modular Dining Set (sellers include Notcutts Garden Centres) is also weather resistant.
Live at Loseley
Sway to the music under a starlit sky at Live at Loseley Park near Guildford, from 2 – 4 August. There’s a choice of programme depending on your preference – from The Best of Frankie Valli, to Musicals or Movie Soundtracks, played by the Bourne Orchestra. Savour some refreshments while immersing yourself in the atmosphere, amidst the beautiful Loseley gardens. There’s also a firework finale!
Bushy Beverage
Celebrate the Olympics and toast wins with a traditional French cocktail like Kir Royale, adding blackcurrants to your favourite champagne or sparkling wine and crème de cassis. Or, if you prefer non-alcoholic, take your lead from the no alcohol rule at the Games and try a non-alcoholic beer, like Corona Cero – the official beer of the Paris Games (also at supermarkets).
Until next time!
August is a great time to take inspiration from all the blooms around you and start considering your dream garden for next year. We have a consultation service where we can chat through your ideas and start shaping them into reality. Why not give us a call? Details are on our website here.
