zone 5 landscaping
Gardens by Jeffrey Bale Save Email Assess What You Have While i’s true that the function of paths is to safely move from Point A to Point B, who says the journey has to be boring, predictable or mundane? They key word here is journey. Think of a journey you’ve taken overseas or to the opposite coast, or think of a fictitious journey, perhaps the Banks children popping in and out of sidewalk chalk drawings in Mary Poppins. There’s a story attached to every journey. What story does your garden have to tell? Perhaps it’s about your family, your personality or your heritage. Now ask yourself how your path or walkway fits into that story. The walkway shown here quickly begins to tell a story. The square lines of each section suggest order, the larger stones form an organic relationship with the land, and the mosaics speak of artistry and slightly subdued whimsy. It’s an interesting marriage, one that ignites the imagination. The lesson is this: Your story can begin to unfold with your choice of paths.
Mulch. There are few things as peaceful as walking on a mulched path through a woodland garden. Mulch is inexpensive, easily sourced and installed, and is available in a variety of types and hues. It may be contained within a framework of timber or metal edging, or, as seen here, spread freely to give the suggestion of a path without rigid formality. Generally, more finely textured mulch requires replenishing more regularly than does a larger grade of mulch.
Gravel. People have mixed views on the functionality of gravel; I’m in the camp that loves it. While it may not work well in every situation — for example, on steep slopes or where wheelchair access is necessary — it’s a material that’s from the earth and therefore adds to a garden’s natural feel. It crunches when walked upon, adding another layer of interest to the garden experience.
Consider Width Traditionally, most residential paths, particularly walkways, are 4 feet wide, allowing two average-size adults to walk side by side through a space. However, this is a guide, not a rule. Begin by asking yourself what you want the path to do for you, functionally and philosophically. A path that’s wider than average, perhaps 5 to 8 feet, allows groups of people to walk together and converse. It can also be used as additional entertaining space. Side garden paths, as shown here, can be much narrower, perhaps only 2 to 3 feet wide. The narrower width causes visitors to walk single file through the space and slows them down long enough to notice focal points or garden vignettes. The narrower path is also philosophical: We all experience life individually and our journey is, in reality, our own.
don't know the zone here but great mix of evergreen
water wise
doesn't way what it is, but love the look of this for front door
bringing squares into yard, creating seating area
climbing kiwi on pergola, plus evergreen in pot
could 'bring out' the back deck via squares like this, further into the yard
full sun
full sun
zone 4 full sun to light shade
narrow tree
Q