Photos: Tour These Designer Gardens
Formal Lawn
It doesn't matter whether you have a big yard or a small one, a little money or a bundle, or if you're working on your first garden or your 12th. As the following success stories demonstrate, paying homage to a few key points can make the difference between a garden you love and one you won't show the neighbors.
Symmetry rules this garden. A center line (axis) passes through the fountain and the middle of the arbor.
Love It? Get It!
Designer: Norman Kent Johnson, Mountain Brook, AL; 205/960-8902
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Formal Lawn
Removing the lower limbs of these tall crepe myrtles reveals the beauty of the trunks. A fountain adds the peaceful sound of splashing water. Bright green grass stands out when edged with dark green boxwoods.
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Formal Lawn
Large American boxwoods growing in containers anchor the planting beds. Low maintenance and drought tolerant, boxwoods can take the South's harsh temperatures and still look great.
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City Courtyard
A courtyard planted with shade-loving plants fills the backyard where grass wouldn't grow.
Love It? Get It!
Designer: Carrington Brown, Manakin-Sabot, VA; carrington12@comcast.net or 804/784-6146
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City Courtyard
Caladiums, ferns, and espaliered English ivy accent the carriage house wall.
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City Courtyard
Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, adds a bit of whimsy.
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Side Terrace
An ornate urn fountain serves as this garden's focus while pavers bordered by dwarf mondo grass lend a riveting pattern to the space.
Love It? Get It!
Designer: James Farmer, Kathleen, GA; jamesfarmer.com
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Side Terrace
Bright yellow creeping Jenny accentuates the caladiums and impatiens, helping them stand out above the dark green mondo grass and bluestone pavers.