Creative Garden Decorating

It is logical to assume that the exterior landscape and design of a home is a reflection of what might be inside the house. In other words, if a garden is a cluttered mish-mash of fountains, yard ornaments, bird feeders, and statues, then it is a safe assumption that the inside of the home is cluttered and decorated inappropriately and ostentatiously, as well. Conversely, a neat landscape with edged lawns, symmetric flowerbeds, and gardens with understated, creative decor allows us to know that the inside of the home is just as beautiful.

When decorating your garden, choose to place items using the same logic that you might use when decorating your home interior. Since you probably create balance in your home with appropriate accessories, pictures, and furniture, extend that balance to your garden through creative decorating. Follow these suggestions for creative garden decorating:

• Water fountains. Listening to trickling water can have a calming effect, creating serenity within your garden. Choose fountains that are size-appropriate. If you've a small garden, place a small birdbath instead of an operating fountain.
• Seating. Even if you simply have a small vegetable garden or flowerbed, you can place a wooden bench or a few patio chairs so that you can leisurely enjoy the beauty of nature. Perhaps you've a shade tree or hedge next to your garden where you can place your seating in a shady spot so that you can enjoy your garden even during the warmest weather.
• Unusual elements. Think outside of the box and decorate your garden with an old door, a complete window sash, or a weathered wheelbarrow. Paint the door a cheery color and anchor it to the ground along a garden path, and allow moss to grow at the base. A window sash anchored to an old tree stump provides a bit of whimsy, while an antique wheelbarrow can be used as a flower planter.
• Garden ornaments. Gazing balls come in many colors, and you can find them at your local home improvement store in various sizes. Small statues of gnomes, birds, rabbits, and other creatures peeking from beneath large-leaved plants can provide a surprise for the observer.

Strategic placement of planters, statues, painted rocks, bird houses, hummingbird feeders, and urns can turn your garden into a respite from your busy world, while you pause to stroll through or sit and rest. You can even use in-ground or overhead lighting so that you can use your garden at night.