Color and shape play a key role in the garden, but we often forget about the role of texture in garden design. Plant textures vary from very fine and airy to coarse, with a whole range of textures in between. As we’ve seen in earlier posts on garden design, texture can refer to both the overall plant form as well as the shape and size of the leaves and/or blossoms. Adding texture to the garden can also be accomplished by varying colors and contrasts and including garden ornaments and structures.
Use these photos showing how a variety of textures can easily add interest to any garden as a jumping off point for incorporating more texture into your garden!
Coarse textures and/or large foliage often adds a tropical touch to gardens – even in colder climates!
Fine textures, including leaf textures and soft colors, can often accentuate nearby plants.
Plants with small leaves and/or blossoms are generally fine-textured plants. They give a light and airy feeling to a garden.
Using a variety of textures within a give space adds impact and interest to your garden. The textures and shaped of nearby trees and shrubs should be taken into consideration as well.
Finer textured plants often allow motion to play an interesting role in the garden, where even a slight breeze will send them swaying gently.
Add contrast by combining coarse-textured plants with medium or fine-textured plants.
Garden ornaments and furnishings can also help to add texture to the garden as seen above and in the next photo.
As we’ve seen, a combination of shapes and forms can easily add interest and “texture” to any garden. Give it a try yourself!