Formal vs. Informal Landscape Design

Landscape design is a combination of landscape architecture and garden design. It is an independent profession. It is a design tradition that combines nature and culture.Landscape Design

There are two main types of garden Landscaping: formal and informal. These styles can be mixed and matched.

Formal designs are often associated with Royal or classically inspired settings. They include fountains, stone walls, and formal seating areas. These types of gardens are often hard to maintain. They are also more expensive. If you don’t want to spend the money, a more affordable option is informal landscaping.

Unlike formal designs, informal landscapes are free-flowing and less structured. They can feature natural shapes in their plantings and ornaments. This type of design is easier to achieve than you might think.

The key to a successful design is to use a variety of plants. This can be accomplished by blending plants and shrubs into an organic design. However, a more formal look can be achieved using a variety of geometric and abstract patterns.

Formal landscapes are usually based on geometry. They utilize symmetry to match both sides of the garden. This means that each element of the landscape will follow a particular pattern. It can be made to look elegant and exquisite.

An informal design is more common. It involves free-flowing planting and billowy plant material. These can be accompanied by irregularly shaped stones. This type of design is easier to manage and can create a more casual or beachlike appeal. The most important thing to remember when designing a landscape is that asymmetry can be built into the different axes of the garden.

The best way to determine whether your garden should be informal or formal is to study its style. While a formal design is likely to contain a symmetrical lawn, asymmetrical houses don’t always fit with a formal landscape.

When you want to create a privacy screen in your yard or along your property’s perimeter, you might be wondering what plants are best. Luckily, there are a variety of options. These include evergreen trees, thorny plants, and bamboo. These are low maintenance and can provide a variety of benefits.

One of the most popular choices for a living privacy fence is Arborvitae. These evergreen trees can tolerate almost any soil. They can also be pruned into tall hedges.

Another great option is the agave. These evergreen shrubs have blue-green leaves that spread 6-8 feet. Their foliage can also be variegated. These are a great choice for your garden as they offer a sturdy barrier for your space.

If you have a larger landscape, you may consider White Pines. These are perfect for large areas and for city parks. These woodsy trees provide complete privacy and seclusion. They can be planted in zig-zag patterns to maximize their privacy.

If you have a smaller, more informal garden, consider planting a euonymus hedge. These low-growing shrubs can be used as a ground cover or a spiky barrier along your property’s perimeter. Unlike other varieties, euonymus flowers aren’t particularly attractive, but they attract many pollinators.

For even more privacy, plant a living wall. These plants are commonly called green screens. These natural barriers are a great alternative to fences, allowing you to enjoy your garden without worrying about prying eyes. These plants are usually set along a fence, or they can be planted in a gap between two fences.

For even more privacy, consider planting star jasmine. These woody vines produce a series of flower racemes in spring. The leaves are composed of large, broad leaflets that make them ideal for screening. The starlike blooms can block out other plants, and the essential oil is used to make traditional incense mixtures.

Lines in landscape design serve a variety of purposes. They create a sense of depth, emphasize a feature, and draw attention to a focal point. They can also be used to create a calming effect.

The use of color is important in landscape design. The right amount of color can add interest, give accents, and make a landscape appear cohesive. However, too much color can be overwhelming.