Why garden? Do you like to see beautiful scenery? Do you prefer to grow and eat healthy foods or foods you can't buy locally? Do you enjoy exercise and the health benefits of being outdoors? Is it a form of artistic expression? Does your wife (husband/partner) force you? Are you enjoying yourself?
First, I am very supportive of people gardening for themselves. I hope for the majority, but society sometimes imposes restrictions or rules that negatively affect self-expression and creativity. For example, some homeowner associations have written rules about permitted and prohibited types of landscaping. Also, social norms often discourage different practices, such as creating front gardens instead of lawns and ornamental plants.
Over time I have learned to appreciate the uniqueness of plants. Some fanciful garden art such as ceramic chickens, old bed frames, glazed stones, flamingos, toilets and modern sculptures may not appeal to me, but neither does abstract art in museums. Like it or not, I respect that others do what they like and what the Creator intended. For them, it's a first. If others like it, great.
That's not to say I don't love old bed frames, chicken coops, etc., as I've seen them used very effectively in my beloved garden. To me, it just shows that gardens are art, some modern, some popular and many other styles.
It doesn't matter if you buy garden art from a flea market, antique shop, garden center or artists' studio. Like interior decorating, exterior decorating should reflect your needs.
In addition to garden art, hardscape can be used in pergolas, balconies, paths, walls, gazebos, etc. It should reflect your wishes. The shapes and materials used to make them can vary as your imagination and budget allows.
Some additional benefits of hard surfaces include adding character and interest to the yard, reducing water, fertilizer and maintenance costs. Hardscapes can be designed to enhance outdoor living by providing a sitting or dining area, creating a microclimate of protection and shade for plants you wouldn't otherwise be able to grow, or adding a new dimension to your garden.
When one sees the landscape as a canvas for art, it opens up new possibilities for creativity and individuality. A museum is not like a painting, it's like an art exhibition. No two shows (seasons or years) are the same.
Also, because gardens are subject to natural variability, as light patterns change throughout the day, displays can change weekly and daily.
Paint your garden canvas according to your needs and desires to express your joy. Others love it, or at least appreciate it.
"The garden is not supposed to be useful. It is about happiness. Rumer Godden, The Chinese Court, 1961."
This article originally appeared in the Amarillo Globe-News column: Garden Guy: Paradise of Happiness.
