Plant Selection
part three of fundamentals of design
Plant selection is one of the most critical elements of landscape gardening and design because it impacts the overall appearance, functionality, and sustainability of the garden. It requires a blend of aesthetic judgment, horticultural knowledge, and an understanding of the local environment, especially here in England where we have a temperate climate.
Here’s how I approach plant selection in a step-by-step manner:
1. Climate & Microclimate Consideration
First and foremost, I consider the climate of the region. In England, we have cool, mild winters and warm summers with relatively high rainfall, but each garden may have its own microclimate. For example, gardens in the South of England might be warmer and drier compared to those in the North. Even within a single garden, you may have sunny, sheltered spots or shady, damp corners, and this greatly affects the types of plants that will thrive.
Plants must be chosen with their hardiness in mind—meaning their ability to survive the winters and manage the moisture levels. Some plants can cope with a windy, exposed site, while others prefer a more sheltered spot.
2. Soil Type & Condition
Soil plays a huge role in determining plant success. In England, we have a variety of soil types, from clay and loam to chalk and sandy soils. I always test the soil to understand its pH (acidic, neutral, or alkaline) and drainage qualities, and I choose plants accordingly.
For example:
Clay soils hold moisture and are nutrient-rich but can be heavy and slow-draining. Plants like Roses and Astilbe thrive in these conditions.
Sandy soils drain quickly but tend to be nutrient-poor, so drought-tolerant plants like Lavender or Sedums are ideal.
Chalky soils tend to be alkaline, so plants that prefer these conditions, like Clematis and Lilac, are great choices.
3. Garden Style & Theme
The design style and overall theme of the garden heavily influence plant choices. Whether you’re designing a formal garden, a cottage-style garden, a modern minimalist space, or even a wildlife-friendly garden, the plants need to fit the mood and structure.
Formal gardens typically feature symmetrical layouts, with structured plants like Boxwood or Yew for hedging and topiary.
Cottage gardens are informal and exuberant, filled with a mix of perennials like Lavender, Roses, and Delphiniums, often with plants that self-seed.
Wildlife gardens focus on plants that attract pollinators and native wildlife—plants like Foxgloves, Honeysuckle, and Wildflowers are ideal in these spaces.
4. Seasonality & Plant Lifespan
A key to a well-designed garden is ensuring year-round interest. I choose a variety of plants that bloom or show off their best features at different times of the year. This avoids a garden looking barren in winter or too busy in summer. For example, I might mix:
Spring bloomers like Tulips, Daffodils, or Magnolia.
Summer performers like Roses, Lavender, and Geraniums.
Autumn interest with trees like Acer or grasses like Miscanthus.
Winter structure with evergreens like Holly and shrubs with winter interest like Cornus (Dogwood) with its bright red stems.
Also, mixing perennials, annuals, shrubs, and trees creates layers of interest and variety in texture and form.
5. Functionality of Plants
Beyond aesthetics, plants serve functional purposes in the garden:
Screening and Privacy: Tall shrubs, trees, or hedging plants like Hornbeam, Privet, or Leylandii can create privacy or block unsightly views.
Shade and Shelter: Trees like Beech or Oak provide shade, while windbreaks or hedges protect against harsh winds.
Erosion control: Plants with strong root systems, such as Ferns or Bamboo, can help stabilize slopes or soil in gardens with uneven terrain.
Wildlife support: Native plants like Wildflowers, Hawthorn, and Ivy support bees, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife, enhancing biodiversity.
6. Maintenance Level
Not all gardeners have the same commitment or time for upkeep, so I choose plants that match the desired level of maintenance:
Low-maintenance plants, like Grasses (such as Stipa or Festuca) or drought-tolerant perennials (Sedum, Achillea), are ideal for people who want a garden that largely looks after itself.
For those who enjoy the work, more delicate, high-maintenance plants like Roses or Topiary can add a sense of elegance and hands-on care.
7. Color Palette & Texture
Plant selection also involves playing with color and texture. I consider both the color of the flowers and the foliage, creating a palette that complements the overall design.
For a cool and calm garden, I might choose greens, whites, purples, and blues using plants like Lavender, Alliums, and Hostas.
For a vibrant, energetic feel, I’d include bold, warm colors like reds, oranges, and yellows using plants like Crocosmia, Rudbeckia, and Geums.
Textural contrast is key as well—combining fine-leaved plants like Grasses with large-leaved plants like Hosta adds depth and interest.
8. Sustainability and Native Plants
Sustainability is becoming an ever-increasing priority. I favor native plants and drought-resistant species that require less water and maintenance, which is particularly useful in case of summer water restrictions. I also avoid invasive species that could damage local ecosystems.
In summary, plant selection is an intricate process where aesthetic goals are balanced with the local environment and practical considerations. The right plants not only beautify a garden but ensure it thrives year-round, suits the garden’s style, and remains manageable for its caretakers.