Plant Forms

There are three design elements to consider when creating a planting design: form, texture and color.

Each plant you choose encompasses these characteristics in different ways. Though you should consider all of these it is important to know that form is the most consistent, then texture and finally color.

A good planting design should start with a strong composition of forms.  Below are some examples.

Can you think of plants in your area that fit these forms...whether tree, shrub or even perennial?

Bright Spots Today

This odd weather is making everything bloom very early.  I thought it would be fun to capture these bright spots once in awhile.  Below is what I caught on film today walking through the Iowa State University campus.

A Winter without Snow

Okay, we have had some snow, but not much.  If it's going to be cold, we might as well enjoy some white sparkle, but alas, only a sprinkle here and there.  What's left...freezing temperatures and a barren landscape devoid of the pretty, fluffy stuff.  Oh hum. The image below is only a dream.

Image courtesy of photography by bomobob

Another Beautiful Espalier

I wish I would have found this beautiful watercolor a couple of days ago when writing about espalier.  It has a lovely example way at the bottom (of course, there is a lot of lovely other garden towards the top too!).

This painting was created by Holly at golly bard.  All of her images are just amazing.

Two Trees & Quiet Beauty

I haven't had any profound landscape thoughts lately, but when I saw this photo felt it was profound enough on its own.

Photo courtesy of Lucy Snowe Photography

We don't have snow here yet and though some of you will kick me for saying it, I can't wait for our first heavy snowfall. The quiet beauty of winter is alluring.