Agricultural Extension Agent Neal Denton shares some tips on designing your own patio area. Flower borders enhance any patio, but the design should accommodate the space and your intentions. Along a walkway, for example, you'd choose low-growing plants; along a fence, you might select vines or shrubs. If you want to draw the eye from the patio toward the garden, the shortest plants should be near the patio and taller ones on the far side of the border, where they'll lead your gaze into the garden. Make sure to choose plants with the same growing requirements and to match their needs to conditions in the targeted area. Obviously you wouldn't plant sun-loving marigolds in a shady spot or woodland ferns in full sun. The color white is often overlooked in border plantings. White flowers draw the eye and add a touch of brightness to an otherwise dark area. Variegated foliage accomplishes the same things and looks fabulous in combination with white flowers. Don't be afraid to mix perennials, annuals and shrubs in the same border planting. Small, low-growing shrubs such as heather allow you to create curves in the border planting and to add interest.
RESOURCES :
For plants from Wolf River Valley Farms
GUESTS :
Neal Denton
UT Agricultural Extension Service
400 West Main Avenue, Suite 560
Knoxville, TN 37902-2498
Phone: 865-215-2340
Fax: 865-215-2933
Email: knox@utk.edu
Website: www.utextension.utk.edu
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