Many unique features can be added to even a mature native plant garden to give it additional beauty, texture and interest. These would include:
STONEWORK:
This garden in N. Barrington uses limestone paths and retaining walls to add texture and levels of interest to the garden
A council ring and path, after the style of Jens Jensen, was created in a
N. Barrington garden.The ring has become a nice place for the kids to gather for club meetings and for their parents to have breakfast.
Click here to see more samples of stonework in the garden
This half-barrel gives the impression of flowing water using stones "running" down a berm into a piece of hollowed log.
PATHS:
We make our paths by creating a shallow, beveled trench and filling it with pine bark nuggets. When the path is walked on, it becomes compressed and gives the appearance of a well-worn path (like this one at right.)
This path in Lincolnshire was created and planted in May, 2005. It already looks like a "natural" part of the garden.
unique BIRD BATHS AND HOUSES:
Creating a garden habitat for native wildlife is a landscaping idea that's both attractive and good for the environment. Bird baths provide water for drinking, bathing, and in some cases, breeding.
Bird houses provide cover and a place to raise young.
Creative bird houses, like this one in Burr Ridge, can add a touch of whimsey to the garden.
Here is a photo of a multi-story bird bath created by Art. Not only will it host a larger variety of birds, it is an attractive sculpture as well.
Click here to see more of Art and Linda's Wildflowers'
custom made bird baths.
ROCKS AND LOGS:
Rocks and logs provide habitats for amphibians and reptiles as well as adding interest to the garden.
This decorative log pile adds an interesting sculptural element to the garden. It can also be used for privacy, as a home for wildlife, a place to put cut wood (!) and can support vines.
A cut section of a cypress tree makes and unusual and interesting statement.
FENCES:
STREAMBEDS AND WATERFALLS:
Both can be created using the water from downspouts or water hoses.
This garden in Lincolnwood, IL is complemented by a rain garden with a stone "stream" that begins at the home's downspout and can be enhanced by turning on a hidden hose.
Click here to see more images of rain gardens with water features.
ARTIFACTS:
This attractive set of bird houses was added later by the clients. Notice how the rain garden plants have filled in to give this garden a cool and inviting feel.
BENCHES:
This bench is nestled by plants surrounding a shady patio in N. Barrington.
Follow the stone path to this comfortable
bench......which is more hidden than it looks!
This bench, situated in a shady garden in Lincolnshire, provides sanctuary and shade.
