6 Structures in a Great Landscape Design

Creating a landscape design that displays seasonal color is important, but when there is no structure - there is no garden.

A beautiful combination of structures in this Jinny Blom design - Photographs by Andrew Montgomery

Above is a landscape design by Jinny Blom - an English landscape designer who has taken the garden community by storm. She is a brilliant, self-taught innovator who shows great structure and consistency within her designs.

"Structure is the most important component in a successful planting, color is important too but it is a secondary consideration" - Piet Oudolf

Lets see what 6 elements of 'structure' over color Piet is talking about.

1) Spikes and Spires - A tall, erect, upright flower that form into spiked nature. Usually an inflorescence blooming.

2) Umbel Form - Flat topped flower with a funnel shape to it. Usually formed by small clumps of flowers (called inflorescence). Can be large or small in size.

3. Ball and Button Forms - Round shape attached to a thinner stem. Gives the allusion of almost 'floating' in the air. Keep in mind that some other structures that may be a "daisy" for when in bloom - can become a Button form in Winter. (Example such as the Echinacea 'Coneflower').

4. Plume Structure - A usually very large, soft, elegant flower cluster. Gives the allusion of a cloud on a stem. Below is an example of a Plume.

5. Daisy - Usually a single center with petals surrounding. Found on coneflowers, black eyed, susans, and more. As shown below.

6. Screens - A very light, whispy structure. You can tend to 'see through' these screens to what is beyond. Screens can also be a "backdrop" of color - which doesn't always need to have a transparent structure. 2 Examples shown below - First of a purple love grass with great color and texture and yet ability to look past. Second a 'Backdrop' of lavender color by use of the Russian Sage.

Great example of using Plumes, Russian Sage Screen, as well as Ball and Button Structure (Rattlesnake Master) all in one photo.

It is our job at Creative Decks & Landscaping to inform, educate, deliver, and inspire our clients. Our passion for people, quality of products, and superior craftsmanship, is what sets us apart from the rest. Call today for a quote for your next landscape or deck project! We'd love to hear form you! Call today for a free no obligation quote at 920-468-7219.

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