Style by the Yard

Gardens have personalities, just like people. These down-to-earth ideas give you a whole yard full of ways to accessorize your lawn, turning even the smallest plot of land into a piece of paradise.
 

Architectural Elements
Outfitting your garden is like anything else — start big and work your way down. Arches, arbors, gazebos and bridges anchor a landscape, providing romantic gateways from one part of your yard to another. Add a gate and an arbor becomes a formal entry, converting an open area into private space. For old-fashioned charm, plant roses to grow up and over the opening, luring visitors through the arches and beyond.

Stone Accents
Weathered statuary is an echo of the past, making even the newest garden seem like it’s been around for centuries. A sundial on a pedestal, a birdbath encircled with flowers, an impish garden sprite peeking out of a bramble of plants all indicate that, while lovely to look at, a garden is, at heart, a place to play.

Fountains and Ponds
Fountains provide garden therapy, soothing visitors with their gentle splashing. A water feature can be as simple as a tabletop fountain or as elaborate as an in-ground pond with waterfall. To turn an unused corner into a relaxing oasis, buy a ready-made fountain, fill it with water and surround with ferns and other water-loving plants. Just make sure you have a GFI outlet nearby.

Garden Ornaments
Make a walk through your garden a series of little focal points — a butterfly feeder nestled in a wildflower garden, a set of wind chimes making music along a path, a Victorian gazing ball reflecting a flower-filled view. Match ornaments to the architectural style of the house. An iron gate makes a dignified trellis; painted children’s chairs make lighthearted plant stands; decorative cocktail stirrers make clever plant markers.

Paths
A path is an invitation, a subtle promise of adventure ahead. There are as many ways to make a path as there are places to explore. Gravel edged in old brick adds a formal feel. For an artistic twist, use colored pebbles, bordered with strips of painted wood. To make a low maintenance path, set flagstones in a bed of mulch or stepping stones in grass. For a natural path, plant a grassy strip between beds of flowers. Line the path with unexpected little discoveries, and the journey will be magical.