There are unlimited different styles of gardens to choose from when creating for our own spaces. We can chose from some of the main categories and add our own special touch so we have a statement of our own style. After all we garden for enjoyment and beauty and should not be afraid to stray from theory and rigid thoughts. The small list below is a beginning point only and hopefully will lead you to search for more specific styles or your own form of gardening. The architectural style of our homes and natural conditions of our land should always be considered in our design process. The areas we work in are well worth considering as outside rooms or an extension of the home. If screened from one another or blended well we may wish to create completely different themes in various areas.

The Chinese garden has been around for quite some time and was the first to have a major influence on the Japanese gardeners. Although there are many similarities, they both have their own distinct characteristics. The Chinese garden is not essentially of horticultural interest with a profusion of plants growing in wild abandon. To evoke the beauties of natural scenery on an intimate scale is the aim of the Chinese gardener. Rocks and flowing water are manipulated so that images of great mountains and rivers are conjured up within a limited area. Often there are bizarre plant forms shaped with evergreen material. Mossy steps, meandering paths, and cobbled paving is popular.

Cottage Gardens - Usually the flower borders of these gardens are densely planted with perennials, and annuals that are not only attractive in the garden but many are well suited to be cut andbrought indoors for arrangements. This style of garden is very often informal in nature with a strong sense that the plant material should be thought of in companionships that fit the idea of survival of the fittest. Color in this garden can be approached by a variety of means as not only the pleasing colors next to each other on the color wheel but with some bold splashes of contradicting colors as well. Rustic wood arbors, gates, fences and seats are very often included in special areas. Climbing plants such as wisteria, roses, clematis, and honeysuckle are used quite a bit. Bird baths in various forms and birdhouses of various types are popular additions. Pathways are important elements and one form is to use flagstone interplanted with Wooly thyme or Corsican mint. Usually some free-form lawn shapes are added for interest and barefoot walks.