Real garden: be inspired by this cottage garden in the Cotswolds

English cottage gardens are celebrated for their romantic, wild, and enchanting aesthetic, characterized by lush layers, fragrant blooms, and a storybook appeal. These gardens frequently feature climbing roses, winding pathways, and whimsical accents that underscore a deep appreciation for nature in its most untamed yet beautiful form. This article explores 22 distinct ideas for creating such a garden, whether in a sprawling yard or a compact corner, aiming to inspire outdoor spaces that exude a timeless charm, vibrant colors, and a sense of enduring life. Each idea presented aims to evoke a sense of magic and tranquility, making the garden feel as though it has been flourishing for centuries. The concepts begin with a 'Cottagecore Dream, Straight from a Fairytale,' depicting a pastel-pink garden cottage surrounded by overflowing flower beds and a stone path, suggesting an enchanted, old-world escape. This leads to the 'Wild English Garden Whimsy,' which captures the essence of a summer morning with layered blooms like foxgloves, daisies, and poppies intertwined along a charming stone path, advocating for a slower, more deliberate lifestyle. The 'Sun-Drenched Cottage Garden' showcases ivy-draped golden stone walls and terracotta pots overflowing with flowers, portraying a lived-in and slightly untamed space ideal for relaxation and quiet reflection. 'Whimsy in Bloom' highlights a vibrant array of lupines, scabiosa, and dahlias, complete with an insect hotel, emphasizing the garden as a living ecosystem. Further ideas include 'A Garden Gate to Daydreams,' featuring a rose-covered arbor and a gravel path, conjuring images of storybook romance and secluded tea dates. 'Twilight Tea Among the Blooms' illustrates an intimate setting with lantern light illuminating hydrangeas and clematis, suggesting magical, candlelit evenings. 'Cottagecore, But Make It Botanical' presents a blush-pink garden house amidst tumbling blooms, perfect for quiet contemplation. 'A Garden Gathering Spot With Storybook Charm' details a patio with picket-fenced garden beds and wicker chairs, inviting communal storytelling under the stars. The article also covers 'Romantic Rose Arbor Moments,' describing white arbors cloaked in climbing roses and winding paths. 'Potting Shed Dreams & Fern-Fringed Paths' offers a vision of a garden nook with a timeworn brick path, lavender-toned blooms, and vintage watering cans. 'The Lavender Lane Daydream' describes a brick trail winding through blue and violet blooms, leading to a potentially secret garden. 'The Cottage-Core Dream Fence' showcases a white picket fence adorned with candy-colored roses and lavender. 'Garden Gate Daydream' features a soft brick path leading to a slightly ajar wooden gate with pale blush roses. Additional inspirations include 'Layered Romance by the Pool,' which combines English cottage charm with poolside serenity through cascading flowers and sculpted hedges. 'A Rosy Ramble to the Cottage' depicts a path lined with pink roses, foxgloves, and delphiniums leading to a cozy cottage. 'Ivy-Clad Symmetry & Stone' explores a manicured garden with boxwood hedges and an ivy-draped facade. 'Whimsical Garden Nook' features stone pavers, clipped boxwood, and a tiny green shed. 'Wild Romance Along the Stone Path' portrays a weathered stone path through lavender, salvia, and heirloom roses. 'Tucked-Away Garden Stairs in Full Bloom' details a hillside garden overflowing with wild roses and soft greens. Finally, 'Thatched Roof + Wildflower Whimsy' illustrates a sun-washed thatched cottage enveloped by untamed blooms, emphasizing natural growth over manicured perfection. 'Wildflower Wonderland + Weathered Greenhouse' envisions a grassy trail through meadows leading to a charming, slightly forgotten greenhouse. 'Wildflower Charm by the Garden Shed' describes a sun-drenched, overgrown corner with foxgloves and daisies, embodying relaxed English cottage aesthetic. The last idea, 'Mossy Bricks + Cascading Wisteria,' suggests a serene garden vignette with an iron bistro set under a canopy of wisteria, perfect for tranquil afternoons. #EnglishCottageGarden #GardenDesign #OutdoorLiving #FloralArrangement #Cottagecore #LandscapeArchitecture #HomeGarden #GardeningIdeas #WhimsicalGardens

This article details the thoughtful renovation of a five-bedroom, four-bathroom Cotswold stone house, originally set in a former orchard, undertaken by its owners, Julie and Neil Daniells. The aim of the renovation was to blend contemporary aesthetics with the property's period setting, utilizing a natural palette of colors and materials to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for both family and guests. The transformation encompasses both the interior and exterior spaces, showcasing a harmonious balance between historic charm and modern design. On the exterior, Julie took the initiative to paint the uPVC windows using Tikkurila paint, custom-mixed to a dark taupe, which contrasts with a charcoal shade used on the interior window frames. This decision added character both inside and out. The garden room, which was originally a conservatory, received an update with new slate-look roof tiles, providing an interesting contrast to the main roof's clay terracotta tiles. This structural change was crucial in regulating the room's temperature, making it comfortable year-round, enhanced by insulation and strategically placed radiators. Two non-reflective roof lights were installed to flood the space with natural light and prevent the adjoining sitting room from becoming too dark. The garden, a significant aspect of the property, was professionally redesigned by award-winning local garden designer Lucy Bravington. Julie emphasized the garden's importance as an extension of the living space, particularly during the summer months. The house's kitchen, though in good condition, saw its hardwood cabinetry repainted from taupe to Neptune's Charcoal, achieving a more dramatic and updated look, complementing the cleaned and sealed ceramic floor tiles. The dining area, adjacent to the kitchen and garden room, features a pale wooden table and leather chairs illuminated by large white pendant lights, introducing a modern touch. The hallway and landing, admired for their generous scale, underwent a restoration where the original orange-varnished staircase was sandblasted and given a chalky wash, maintaining a light and airy feel. The sitting room, centered around a large inglenook fireplace, was transformed with Farrow & Ball's Downpipe on the walls, creating a rich, cozy atmosphere that is balanced by the light ceiling and floor. The main bedroom features paneling behind the bed, painted in Farrow & Ball's Charleston Gray, adding texture. This is complemented by a large brass light fixture, a sheepskin rug, and a Welsh wool throw, contributing layers of comfort and luxury. A guest bedroom adopts a coastal theme with wall paneling from The English Panelling Company and a four-poster bed from Neptune. Lastly, the bathroom showcases a creative touch with an upcycled chest serving as a vanity unit and patterned floor tiles from Fired Earth, adding a distinctive element to the space. #CotswoldHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #GardenDesign #ContemporaryLiving #PeriodProperty #NaturalPalette #HomeTour #DesignInspiration

This article showcases a charming garden shed located in Birmingham, Alabama, part of a larger garden featured in Country Living magazine's August/September issue. The shed and its surrounding garden are described as enchanting and storybook-like, with a particular highlight on a fairy garden within the landscape. The shed itself is visually appealing, characterized by its shingled exterior and a vibrant yellow door, which contributes to its whimsical appearance. The outdoor space around the shed is thoughtfully arranged, featuring an iron table and chairs, suggesting a peaceful spot for relaxation or potting activities. The detailed description of the garden environment includes various elements that enhance its aesthetic and functional appeal. Potted plants and rubber boots are visible outside the potting shed, indicating an active gardening space. The garden boasts a variety of colorful flowers, such as delphiniums and red gerber daisies, and also incorporates different types of foliage, including lettuces. These floral and botanical arrangements are presented in diverse ways, including a stone container filled with colorful flowers and a tiered plant stand displaying potted blooms, adding layers of visual interest to the garden. Beyond the vibrant plant life, the garden also features decorative and playful elements. A stone gnome is strategically placed on a gravel path, reinforcing the storybook theme. The mention of a 'charming fairy garden' suggests a dedicated miniature landscape designed to evoke a sense of fantasy and wonder. The overall design emphasizes a blend of practical gardening space with decorative touches that create an inviting and magical atmosphere. The article implicitly encourages readers to draw inspiration from this picturesque setting for their own outdoor spaces. The visual tour through the photographs aims to immerse the audience in the beauty and intricate details of this unique Birmingham garden. #GardenShed #GardenDesign #Fairyland #CountryLiving #BirminghamAlabama #OutdoorDecor #FloralArrangement #HomeAndGarden

This article provides charming ways to create a character-filled outdoor space with a cottage garden aesthetic, emphasizing soft flowers and fragrance. It details how to achieve this style, regardless of garden size or location, debunking the myth that a cottage garden is exclusive to rural, thatched properties. The core principle of a cottage garden involves an informal planting scheme rich in diverse colors, often requiring larger flowerbeds than contemporary garden designs, which might mean sacrificing some lawn space. The article highlights the essential role of an abundance of flowers in creating a meadow-like feel. Historically, cottage gardens evolved organically, with self-seeding plants, cuttings shared by neighbors, and local flora planted without strict adherence to hierarchy or height. This approach fostered a magical blend of shapes and colors. To replicate this wild meadow ambiance, the article suggests layering plants of various colors and heights, moving away from strict color blocking for a more natural, intertwined look. Another key element discussed is the integration of a kitchen garden area. Traditionally, cottage gardens served a practical purpose by providing staple produce such as peas, beans, cabbages, onions, leeks, and carrots, alongside a wide array of culinary and medicinal herbs. For an authentic cottage garden feel, the article recommends interplanting produce among flowers. For those with more space, creating dedicated raised beds in a sunny, south-facing location is suggested for growing edible plants. Finally, the article underscores the importance of roses as a central feature in a cottage garden. These romantic, English garden favorites are celebrated for their fragrance and classic blooms. The article notes the vast variety of roses available, suitable for different positions within the garden, and specifically mentions climbing roses for their abundant, pretty floral sprays, which can become a focal point of the design. The advice provided aims to guide individuals in cultivating a charming and fragrant cottage garden, whether in an urban or rural setting, by focusing on informal planting, integrated edibles, and the timeless beauty of roses. #CottageGarden #GardenDesign #FlowerGardening #KitchenGarden #RoseGardens #OutdoorSpace #InformalPlanting #GardenInspiration

Cottage backyard designs are celebrated for their informal charm, combining vibrant colors, diverse textures, aromatic blooms, and a welcoming atmosphere for both people and local wildlife. These gardens offer a sense of creative freedom, enabling individuals to cultivate their preferred flowers, plants, and produce, along with space for features like ponds, fountains, or seating areas. The aesthetic draws inspiration from traditional English garden concepts originating in the 16th century, which valued both beauty and productivity, featuring old-fashioned flowers, seasonal crops, and medicinal plants. Today, this style has evolved beyond strict adherence to a particular look, becoming more of a gardening philosophy that has been widely adopted by American gardeners. Margaret Hensel, a landscape designer based in Massachusetts and author of "English Cottage Gardening for American Gardeners," emphasizes that the core idea of cottage gardens is adaptable to various architectural styles, from split-levels to ranch houses. She defines a successful cottage garden by its effusive, informal, abundant, and cherished qualities, highlighting that a sense of 'love' is crucial to its creation. Implementing cottage garden principles involves starting with a selection of plants that resonate with the gardener, prioritizing ease of growth. Popular choices include roses, clematis, and honeysuckle for vertical interest and fragrance, alongside peonies, alliums, and annuals like _Ammi majus_ and cosmos for color and volume. Integrating pollinator-friendly plants is also recommended for ecological health. Hardscaping plays a foundational role in defining the garden's character, with a preference for natural, rustic materials such as dry stone walls and soft gravel paths. Repurposing salvaged timber adds an established, aged charm, making the garden feel timeless. Creating a cottage patio space extends the garden's utility, offering a relaxed area for enjoyment, combining rustic paving with comfortable outdoor furniture and cushions. For additional living space, shepherd's huts are suggested as practical and aesthetically pleasing garden room ideas, suitable for home offices or guest accommodation. Garden pathways, whether gravel, brick, or stone, introduce a whimsical, romantic element, guiding visitors to focal points like benches or statues. Erecting a wooden shed, painted in inviting colors and adorned with vintage garden items, provides practical storage while enhancing the cottage aesthetic. Incorporating water features, such as fountains, introduces a serene auditory dimension, contributing to the garden's tranquil ambiance. Thoughtful consideration of garden access, through wooden gates or natural hedgerows, ensures seamless integration with the property. The house itself can serve as an inspiration for the garden design, particularly views from windows and immediate outdoor access points, with fragrant plants strategically placed to enhance sensory experiences. Abundant borders, though seemingly chaotic, require careful planning to ensure a continuous display of color and texture throughout the seasons, with a mix of old-fashioned favorites and self-seeding varieties. Tall flowers like foxgloves and delphiniums add dramatic height and visual interest when interspersed throughout borders, rather than confined to the back. Selecting easy-to-grow plants such as lady's mantle, mountain bluets, peonies, and hardy geraniums is advised, especially for less experienced gardeners, to manage maintenance effectively. Incorporating low-maintenance evergreen shrubs provides year-round structure. Design flexibility is key, with experimentation and learning from successes and failures encouraged. Meadow areas, with their self-seeding wildflowers, attract pollinators and create a natural, vibrant ecosystem. Container gardening offers versatility for smaller spaces, using aged zinc, terracotta, or wicker planters. Creating 'secret' dining areas, secluded by trees or rose arches, enhances the garden's magical quality. Climbing plants, like sweet peas and roses, add vertical beauty and fragrance to walls and structures. Natural boundaries, such as hedges, offer eco-friendly privacy and support wildlife. Color palettes can range from soft pastels for a harmonious feel to vibrant, bold hues, reflecting personal taste. Adding a swing seat provides a tranquil spot for relaxation, while roses, with their beauty and scent, are essential for a romantic touch. Integrating edible plants among flowers continues the tradition of productive cottage gardens, with raised beds and herbs like lavender and sage enhancing both aesthetics and utility. Archways frame garden views and define spaces, and vintage pieces like old milk jugs or troughs contribute character and a lived-in feel. Finally, growing plants from seed fosters a deeper connection to the garden and allows it to evolve organically, creating a unique and self-sustaining sanctuary. #CottageDecor #Flowers #Patio #GardenDesign #BackyardIdeas #PlantSelection #Hardscaping #WaterFeatures #ClimbingPlants

This article details the transformation of a dilapidated Victorian dairy in London into a modern family home, featuring a spectacular Parisian-style courtyard garden and a soft-toned interior. Interior designer Beth Dadswell, founder of Imperfect Interiors, and her husband, Andrew, a graphic designer, undertook the renovation, turning a property with a collapsing roof, damp, and no natural light into a bright and inviting space. The design carefully preserved the building's industrial character while introducing modern elements. The transformation involved converting dark, damp areas into light-filled living spaces. The couple drew inspiration from hidden gardens found behind old buildings in Paris, integrating two vertical courtyard gardens to maximize natural light and views. Extensive use of steel windows and doors frames these garden views, making them a central feature of the home. The material palette is intentionally limited, featuring un-lacquered brass, plaster, and concrete, which elegantly complement the existing industrial aesthetic. Key areas of the home, such as the kitchen, underwent significant changes. The kitchen, once a windowless fridge, now boasts restored original joists and walls painted in a soft calamine pink. Simple utilitarian cabinetry in the kitchen and dining area is balanced by pale pink Zellige tiles and a striking chandelier, adding a touch of elegance. This color and material scheme extends into the study, which overlooks one of the courtyards, creating a cohesive flow throughout the ground floor. On the first floor, two bedrooms and two bathrooms were incorporated into the original footprint. The design upstairs continues the aesthetic established downstairs, with simple grey paneling, pale pink tiles, and brass detailing ensuring a consistent and harmonious scheme. A shower room, completely clad in Zellige tiles, exemplifies understated luxury, further showcasing the designer's attention to detail and material choices. Beth Dadswell’s work on this project demonstrates how a historic industrial building can be reimagined as a contemporary, comfortable home without losing its unique charm. The emphasis on natural light, Parisian-inspired courtyards, and a curated palette of materials creates a serene and stylish living environment. The integration of modern design with preserved industrial features highlights a thoughtful approach to renovation, making the home both functional and aesthetically pleasing. #VictorianDairyConversion #LondonHome #CourtyardGarden #ImperfectInteriors #ModernHomeDesign #IndustrialChic #ParisianStyle #InteriorRenovation #ZelligeTiles

The article explores the design of a Moorish-inspired courtyard at WOW!house 2025 in Chelsea Harbour, a collaboration between interior design studio Goddard Littlefair and outdoor luxury furniture specialists Perennials and Sutherland. This Andalusian-style courtyard draws inspiration from Andalusian gardens, Moorish architecture, and North African influences, emphasizing a carefully managed reduction in design elements. The goal of the space is to offer a peaceful, quiet, and meditative sense of calm, providing an escape from the digital world. The design incorporates soothing ambient lighting, an organic, earthy color palette, and relaxed seating arranged for leisure. A notable aspect of the courtyard's design is its blurring of indoor and outdoor boundaries, creating the feeling of a sheltered Mediterranean or North African garden despite being entirely indoors. The protection from external elements allows for the liberal use of fabrics, rugs, lamps, and mirrors, alongside a restrained selection of potted plants such as palms, spider plants, and ivy, which contribute to an equatorial ambiance that transcends seasonal changes. The article provides five tips for creating a magical courtyard at home, drawing insights from the WOW!house design. The first tip emphasizes taking inspiration from heritage, such as the serene geometry and textured richness of ancient Moorish gardens or the meditative layouts of monastery cloisters. Such historical styles can create a timeless and atmospheric space. The second tip focuses on layering texture and tone, bringing the coziness of indoor spaces outdoors. This involves using a variety of natural textures and warm, earthy tones like terracotta, sage, and sun-washed ochre, while avoiding bright, bold colors. This approach helps to build dimension and harmony. The third tip advises mixing contemporary elements with artisanal details. While new outdoor furniture and technology are necessary, balancing these with handcrafted items like plaster reliefs, handmade tiles, or natural-fiber rugs adds character and a sense of place, aligning with the locale's history and materials. The fourth tip addresses using planting to create ambiance. The choice of plants contributes significantly to the overall feel of the courtyard. For indoor courtyards, a more restrained planting scheme with palms, hostas, and bird of paradise can foster a calming, ethereal atmosphere, while outdoor courtyards allow for more generous planting. Incorporating lush greenery and soft, ambient lighting is suggested to evoke a peaceful, biophilic retreat. The final and most crucial tip is to design for feeling, not just for looks. The article stresses that the most important consideration is how a space makes one feel, advocating for creating an immersive, calming, and transportive environment rather than merely following trends. Understated luxury, it concludes, resides in the emotional impact of a space. The WOW!house 2025 courtyard serves as a testament to how even small spaces can achieve a paradisiacal and impactful design through thoughtful reduction and emotional consideration. #MoorishCourtyard #CourtyardDesign #WOWHouse2025 #GoddardLittlefair #PerennialsAndSutherland #AndalusianGardens #IndoorOutdoorLiving #GardenDesign #MinimalistGardening

English cottages evoke a sense of quaintness and tranquility, often associated with the idyllic countryside. This design aesthetic is characterized by a blend of traditional architectural elements, natural materials, and lush gardens, creating a comforting and romantic ambiance. Key features that define an English cottage include a country kitchen, a garden, a traditional drawing room, antique furnishings, floral decor, and wall paneling. Additional hallmarks often include low-beam ceilings and fireplaces, contributing to the cozy and inviting atmosphere. There are numerous ways to incorporate English cottage charm into a home's exterior and surroundings. A typical cottage might feature a mix of brick and stone or concrete painted in neutral tones for the exterior, ensuring durability and a classic look. Traditional British manors often utilize stone with perfectly painted window trim that harmonizes with other structural elements, such as a detached garage, and are complemented by meticulously maintained landscaping. Cottages nestled in areas like Dartmoor National Park offer spectacular, uninterrupted views, emphasizing a connection to nature and a retreat from urban life. Stone exteriors are particularly iconic, reminiscent of cottages seen in films. These homes can be enhanced with outdoor seating areas and fire pits to maximize relaxation. Focusing on details like a brightly painted front door and trimmed potted shrubs can elevate the curb appeal. The traditional thatched roof, a feature with historical roots dating back 10,000 years, is a quintessential element that immediately identifies a home as an English cottage. Allowing floral vines, such as wisteria, to grow up the sides of a stone house adds to the romantic ambiance, though diligent pruning is necessary to prevent overgrowth. Inspiration for English cottage design can be drawn from various sources, including picturesque villages like those in East Sussex, which feature connected houses with timber-framed slate roofs. Modern farmhouses, while distinct, can also incorporate elements that evoke a similar dreamy escape, especially when paired with natural beauty like pinkish sunsets. Gardens are integral to the English cottage aesthetic, with vibrant and fragrant blooms like purple and pink flowers adding color and sensory pleasure. Wisteria-covered cottages, while beautiful, highlight the importance of maintaining vegetation to preserve the home's charm. Cottages located near natural features like winding rivers or on prominent corners offer unique visual appeal. The choice of exterior color can also contribute to charm; while natural stone is common, traditional homes can be enlivened with bright hues like mustard yellow, peach, light pink, or light purple, especially when paired with rust-colored roofs. Simplicity often underpins the beauty of these homes, with a focus on natural materials and surrounding greenery. Autumnal settings in regions like Gloucestershire further accentuate the cozy allure of traditional cottages, ideal for quiet relaxation. Courtyards with pebbles instead of grass offer a low-maintenance alternative that still provides an inviting outdoor space, accessible through French doors. Traditional English gardens, filled with roses, lavender, and foxgloves, are essential for creating a truly authentic cottage feel, providing fresh flowers for indoor enjoyment. Even tiny rural cottages, painted in subtle shades like faint yellow and featuring interesting rooflines, can exude significant charm when surrounded by lush plants. Well-maintained brick cottages nestled among trees, with classic brown shingled roofs and white-trimmed windows, uphold tradition. For larger properties, creating floral mazes or garden paths with honeysuckle arches enhances the outdoor experience. The archetypal English cottage often combines a thatched roof, brick exterior, abundant flowers, and a white picket fence. Homes designed by garden lovers frequently feature flowers cascading alongside the exterior, sometimes with a thatched roof and a dormer over the front door. Traditional abodes with architectural details like arched entryways and lush greenery create a welcoming atmosphere. Scenic stone cottages in rural settings, even small ones, offer fantastic getaways. The timeless quality of traditional English cottages is evident in designs that retain medieval-style doors and natural stone exteriors. Large front yards of classic brick cottages can serve as ideal spaces for outdoor gatherings. Unique cottages painted in vibrant blues, complemented by green roofs and pink flowers, demonstrate how color can be used creatively. Finally, woodsy gothic cottages, with exquisite architecture and stone bench seating, add a unique historical dimension to the English cottage style. The use of varied stones and textures, along with classic elements like thatched roofs, shutters, and flowers, collectively contributes to the enduring charm of these homes. #EnglishCottage #HomeDesign #RuralLiving #ThatchRoof #Gardening #ArchitecturalStyle #CountryHome #ExteriorDesign #TraditionalDecor

This article delves into the extensive gardening journey of Molly Sedlacek, founder of landscape design studio ORCA, and her mother, Lisa, in their Oregon backyard. Their garden has been meticulously cultivated for 45 years, evolving since they acquired their house in 1980. Lisa reflects on the initial state of the yard, which featured an overgrown laurel hedge and a small lawn, and the satisfaction of transforming it into a vibrant garden. The family is now preparing to move, and while Lisa expresses sadness about leaving certain plants and established routines, she is also excited about creating a new garden that better suits their current lifestyle. Molly shares her earliest memories of the garden, highlighting the sensory experience of walking barefoot on the squishy soil and pea gravel paths. These experiences instilled in her the importance of considering materials that feel good underfoot in her professional work. She also notes that her childhood garden taught her to appreciate the 'beauty in the chaos,' characterized by informal drifts of plants, a unique rock koi pond, and the cyclical nature of life and decay represented by their brush pile. Lisa confirms the garden's organic growth over the years, adapting to changes in the house's structure and the family's needs, such as relocating bamboo for privacy. The mother-daughter duo discusses their successes and failures in gardening, with Lisa recounting triumphs in growing vegetables like purple pole beans and sunflowers, alongside setbacks such as squash failures due to powdery mildew. She emphasizes learning from mistakes and celebrating successes. The article also explores the origins of the garden's fascinating hardscaping and structures. Lisa explains that many of these elements, including arbors, gates, and plant supports, were inspired by gardening books and magazines and built by them, often with the dual purpose of controlling human and pet traffic. Molly details how her parents' approach to hardscaping, utilizing upcycled materials like stone, wood, bamboo poles, and found basins, informs her projects at ORCA, where she incorporates similar principles of using natural, patinated, and native materials. Molly's personal garden in California is a direct extension of her parents' influence, featuring bamboo clumps from her father's collection, cutting flowers for sharing, pollinator-friendly sages and milkweed, and a laurel hedge. She feels a deep connection to her mother when growing Australian plants, which her mother adores but cannot cultivate in Oregon's climate. Lisa confirms her love for Zone 9 and Australian plants, despite the challenges of growing them locally. As they prepare to leave, Lisa plans to take cuttings of beloved plants, like arbor roses, and dig up cherished heirloom roses and unusual bulbs that might not be appreciated by new owners. The hardest part of saying goodbye, for Lisa, will be the uncertainty of whether the new occupants will care for the garden's established life, such as the returning swallows and spring bulbs. Molly underscores the importance of documenting gardens, viewing them as sacred and symbolic spaces that tell a story of human life. The decision to photograph the Oregon garden in the fall was intentional, aiming to capture the juxtaposition of resilience and decay, soft beauty and late blooms, characteristic of an autumn Oregon landscape. Lisa concludes by asserting that gardens continue to exist even after their creators are gone, drawing parallels to forgotten homestead plants that persist and thrive, embodying a powerful urge to grow and live, irrespective of human presence. #Gardening #LandscapeDesign #OregonGarden #FamilyLegacy #SustainableGardening #OutdoorLiving #Horticulture #HomeGarden #GardenInspiration

In recent years, the world of interior design has been significantly influenced by nostalgia, with vintage decorating trends, cosy interiors, and specific colour palettes like butter yellow and tartan accents making a comeback. This inclination towards sentimental aesthetics has now extended to garden design, giving rise to what is known as “nostalgia gardening.” This trend encourages gardeners, both experienced and novice, to create outdoor spaces that evoke cherished memories and sensory experiences from their past. Nostalgia gardening is seen as part of a broader movement towards reconnecting with nature and embracing a slower pace of life, similar to trends such as cottagecore, homesteading, and the slow food movement. It intertwines with other gardening approaches, including chaos gardening, which fosters a playful and experimental attitude reminiscent of childhood fearlessness. The act of gardening itself, such as digging in the dirt, can trigger nostalgic feelings by bringing back memories of time spent with loved ones. The concept of nostalgia gardening can manifest in various ways. For some, it involves designing a green space that mirrors a childhood location. For others, it might mean planting a beloved grandmother’s favourite flower or a mother’s preferred herb. It can also involve transforming a garden into a style reminiscent of an old English rose garden, potentially tapping into “anemoia,” a longing for a past one has never personally experienced. James Farmer, a gardening and design expert, emphasizes the sensory aspect, where each element of the garden—sight, taste, smell, touch, and sound—can evoke specific emotions and memories. This approach also extends to creating a “legacy garden,” meant to be passed down through generations, fostering a deeper emotional connection to the landscape and encouraging its long-term maintenance. Key features of a nostalgia garden include sentimental scents, familiar flowers and vegetables, wildflowers, a layered and lived-in look, and not-so-new hardscaping. Fragrant plants like roses, lilacs, and lavender are particularly effective in evoking nostalgia due to their strong ties to memory. Modern varieties of these plants, such as the Bloomerang series of lilacs or the Reminiscent Coral Rose, offer nostalgic benefits with improved disease resistance and reblooming capabilities. Familiar flowers and vegetables often remind individuals of plants grown by family members, creating a personal connection. Wildflowers, with their whimsical appearance, recall carefree childhood days and contribute to a vibrant, memory-rich landscape. The aesthetic of a nostalgia garden contrasts with meticulous formal gardens. It embraces a jumbled, happenstance style, akin to a cottage garden, where various plants—fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers—are grown together. This creates a happy chaos, a more abstract and less precise design. Similarly, outdoor furniture tends towards a mix-and-match, acquired-over-time feel rather than clean-lined matching sets, often incorporating traditional designs crafted from materials like teak wood and wrought iron. For hardscaping, elements that appear weathered and established are preferred. Winding walkways, stepping stones, and pathways encourage a leisurely pace, while classic features like garden benches, bird baths, and trellises add interest and facilitate reflection. Daniel McCurry suggests incorporating antique troughs, limestone tables, copper gas lanterns, and garden gates of cast iron or painted wood. Water features, such as softly bubbling fountains or serene ponds, contribute to a meditative sanctuary. Ultimately, nostalgia gardening is more than a fleeting trend; it is a heartfelt response to the human need for peace, presence, and a renewed connection to one’s past through the natural world. #NostalgiaGardening #GardenDesign #HomeInteriors #Cottagecore #SustainableLiving #FragrantPlants #Wildflowers #GardenTrends #OutdoorSpaces

The article showcases a detailed account of an English country garden designed by Debbie Roberts of Acres Wild, a landscape and garden firm. This garden, situated on a hillside estate overlooking the Arun Valley near England's southern coast, was created with the specific intention of appearing "simple, relaxed, and timeless." Achieving this simplicity involved a carefully curated plant palette primarily consisting of soft blues, mauves, creams, limes, and whites, chosen to harmonize with the surrounding natural landscape and sky. This deliberate selection of colors ensures visual continuity and a serene atmosphere throughout the garden. Key design elements include the integration of hardscape materials that complement the natural environment. Wide brick-and-flint walls define terraces on the east and south sides of the renovated house, which itself features old brick and flint. Tumbled limestone paving further contributes to the authentic and harmonious feel of the estate. The garden's design extends to its welcoming features, with hedges of yew, low lines of lavender, and rounded tufts of catmint leading to the entryway, providing a gentle and inviting approach. The planting scheme emphasizes a naturalistic aesthetic, with ornamental grasses mirroring the textures of the nearby fields, and mounded evergreens evoking the clusters of trees in the broader countryside. A significant feature of the garden is the retention of a grand old sycamore tree, around which a kinetic sculpture by David Watkinson is placed, whimsically referencing the sycamore seed. This piece of art adds a contemporary touch while honoring the existing natural elements. Roberts highlights the garden's year-round appeal, describing it as a "garden for all seasons." This is achieved through a meticulously choreographed succession of blooms that ensures continuous visual interest. The seasonal display includes spring bulbs, white Iceberg roses, various geraniums, anemones, and hydrangeas. The overall design philosophy ensures that the garden "sits lightly on the ground," meaning it feels integral to its environment rather than imposed upon it. The project, recognized as a 2025 World's Most Beautiful Gardens winner, was originally featured in the July/August 2025 issue of VERANDA, with production by Grace Haynes Wall and written by Stephanie Hunt. #EnglishGarden #LandscapeDesign #GardenDesign #DebbieRoberts #AcresWild #TimelessGarden #YearRoundBlooms #OutdoorLiving #VerandaMagazine

The article discusses the charm of classic Beatrix Potter tales, specifically highlighting Mr. McGregor's garden as an ideal, nostalgic gardening space. The author, a parent who enjoys introducing her daughter to Peter Rabbit, expresses admiration for the garden's abundance of blooms, fresh harvests, and picturesque tool sheds. This appreciation for the storybook garden led to the discovery of Little Cottage Co., a company that produces garden structures designed to evoke a similar aesthetic. Little Cottage Co. manufactures various outdoor structures, including greenhouses, potting sheds, chicken coops, and tool sheds. These products feature white wood paneling, Dutch doors, and wooden shelving, creating a storybook-like appearance reminiscent of the English countryside, particularly the Cotswolds. The article emphasizes that despite their whimsical look, these sheds are built for practical gardening use. The sheds are sold as DIY kits, with all necessary components pre-cut and labeled for assembly, excluding tools. While assembly time can vary, reviews generally suggest the process is manageable for individuals with appropriate experience, though some stages might require multiple people. The construction materials include LP SmartSide siding, chosen for its durability and ability to withstand diverse climates. The siding comes pre-primed, allowing owners to paint the sheds to their desired color upon assembly. The roofing is made from corrugated polycarbonate, which serves as an effective light source, promoting the growth of both seedlings and mature plants within the greenhouse. Little Cottage Co. offers a range of sizes and corresponding prices, starting from approximately $2,400 and extending into higher thousands. For those seeking a more compact yet functional option, the company also provides a 'petite greenhouse' to accommodate smaller spaces or budgets. The piece suggests these structures are a perfect starting point for individuals aspiring to create their own English country garden. #Gardening #PottingShed #Greenhouse #BeatrixPotter #MrMcGregor #DIYProject #OutdoorLiving #HomeImprovement #CountryLiving

Bibury, often dubbed ‘the most beautiful village in England’ by William Morris, is home to the delightful Grade II-listed Arlington Manor. This property, located in the wooded Coln Valley, approximately seven miles from Cirencester, is currently on the market for a guide price of £1.895 million, managed by Savills. Historically, Arlington Manor has a rich past. The Victoria County History (1981) records it as a 17th-century house, with an 18th-century south-west front resulting from a partial rebuilding of its south wing. In 1839, the property functioned as a farmhouse within the Barnsley Park estate, featuring outbuildings to the south, including a barn dating back to 1808. The current owner acquired the house in April 2004 and has since undertaken a sympathetic and extensive renovation. This renovation included integrating the attached stone barn at the rear into the main structure, thereby creating a substantial additional reception room. The property now offers expansive, flexible, and well-lit accommodation spread across three floors. It comprises five reception rooms, a dedicated study, a fully-equipped kitchen/breakfast room, five bedrooms, and five bathrooms. The manor's unique charm is further enhanced by its recent interior design update, skillfully executed by Joanna Wood. Wood is renowned for her expertise in Cotswold properties, having previously restored her own Georgian manor house in nearby Southrop, lending her a deep understanding of the region's architectural and aesthetic sensibilities. Outdoors, a paved courtyard at the rear of the house leads to the enchanting walled gardens. These gardens feature a variety of private, landscaped areas meticulously divided by traditional dry-stone walls, offering a serene and picturesque environment. Included in the sale is an attached one-bedroom cottage, which boasts independent access next to Arlington’s wrought-iron entrance gates, as well as an internal connection to the main house. Additionally, the property features a fully equipped party barn. This barn is designed for entertainment, complete with soft furnishings, dramatic lighting, a table football setup, and a cinema screen, making it an ideal space for social gatherings and leisure activities. #CotswoldProperty #ArlingtonManor #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #PeriodProperty #CountryLife #JoannaWood #Bibury

The article details a kitchen renovation project in a 17th-century Cotswolds farmhouse, emphasizing how the design team at Harvey Jones, led by designer Destiny Smith, successfully integrated traditional charm with modern functionality while preserving the property's original features. The renovation process began by identifying a focal point, which was the restored fireplace. Its central positioning and the muted honey color of the exposed Cotswold stone served as the foundation for the entire kitchen's design, inspiring both the layout and decorative elements. A key decision in the renovation was establishing the color palette. Influenced by the golden tones of the fireplace, a soft cream was chosen for the walls, complemented by a slightly darker shade for the cabinetry. This choice aimed to maintain a bright atmosphere while injecting a timeless country aesthetic. The cabinetry selected was Shaker-style doors, featuring raised beading to enhance the traditional look, fitting for the historic farmhouse. To further the country aesthetic and introduce warmth, wooden worktops were installed, seamlessly blending with the exposed stone of the fireplace. Cupped and knobbed handles completed the traditional look of the kitchen units. The design philosophy was not explicitly to create a country kitchen, but rather, the combination of these elements naturally resulted in a space exuding rural charm. The homeowners, Kathryn Parker and Hyder Jumabhoy, were highly involved in the decision-making process. The renovation also prioritized celebrating original features, such as the leaded windows set in stone mullions. These windows allow natural light to flood the room, creating a warm, autumnal glow. To capitalize on this natural light and embrace rustic kitchen ideas, the design minimized tall and wall cabinets, strategically using them to frame the chimney breast. A balance of closed-door cabinets with an open plate rack and glazed paneling ensured the space remained bright and airy. The inclusion of a separate larder and utility room further reduced the need for excessive storage in the main kitchen, contributing to its open feel. The rise of open-plan living significantly influenced the kitchen's layout. The kitchen seamlessly connects to a dining area through a beamed archway, with a spacious kitchen island acting as a central link between the two zones. This island was crucial for the homeowners, both keen cooks, as it provided ample space for them to work simultaneously. The side of the island facing the dining area incorporates open shelving instead of closed cabinetry, offering a space for cookbooks and integrating a lifestyle element while remaining highly functional. The renovation successfully created a kitchen that harmonizes newer elements with the house's historical character, resulting in a space that brings immense joy to its owners. #KitchenRenovation #CountryChic #CotswoldsDesign #TraditionalCharm #HarveyJones #ShakerStyle #OriginalFeatures #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation

Leanne Ford, a designer, shares her initial experiences and journey into gardening, a pursuit she previously did not consider important but has now found great joy and education in. Her engagement with gardening began three years after purchasing her home, which features 2.5 acres of groomed garden. The garden was a significant factor in her decision to buy the house, evoking childhood memories of 'The Secret Garden' and envisioning future family moments within its wisteria pathways and expansive backyard. Initially, Ford prioritized renovating the interior of her home due to various constraints, including mental capacity, resources (time, money, and team), and the understanding that internal disarray would reflect negatively on the exterior. Consequently, her secret garden aspirations were put on hold. After three years, with the interior sorted and a fresh coat of paint, she felt it was finally time to tackle the garden. Ford admits to having no prior gardening knowledge, describing her expertise as "nothing, nada, zilch." She has enlisted the help of an experienced local gardener named Michael, known for his artistic approach to landscaping, who offered his assistance after recognizing the potential beauty of the neglected land. This support is crucial for Ford, given her lack of experience. Ford notes the demanding and cyclical nature of gardening, contrasting it with her profession as an interior designer. In interior design, once a piece of art or furniture is placed, it typically remains, requiring no further intervention. Gardening, however, involves continuous effort, with plants growing and eventually dying, necessitating replanting and ongoing care. This perpetual cycle of labor without a definitive "completion" fascinates and challenges her, as it stands in stark contrast to the finite nature of interior design projects. Her immediate gardening goals include establishing a thriving kitchen garden capable of feeding a small community, a vision she acknowledges may be ambitious. For the present, she aims to start with a few raised beds in her side yard, branding it a "kitchen garden" as a symbolic first step. She emphasizes a preference for a low-maintenance, year-round attractive, easy-going, light, bright, and "greeny" aesthetic for her acreage, moving away from high-maintenance options. Ford also discusses the historical rose garden that once flourished on her property, a local legend. Despite frequent inquiries about its revival, she has decided against it. Her primary reason is a personal disinterest in roses, finding them only aesthetically pleasing when at their absolute best, with little appeal in their intermediate stages. The extensive care and effort required for roses to reach their peak make them an impractical choice for her current lifestyle and preferences. She concludes that the legend of the roses will persist, but the roses themselves will not be replanted, preferring to start fresh with plants that align with her low-maintenance vision. #LeanneFord #HomeGarden #GardeningJourney #InteriorDesign #DIYHome #LandscapeDesign #LowMaintenanceGarden

Gardens are diverse, influenced by climate, soil, local traditions, intended use, and maintenance levels. In the English garden landscape, styles range from formal and romantic cottage gardens to modern city gardens. There is a growing trend towards resilient, drought-tolerant styles, drawing inspiration from Mediterranean designs, and away from water-intensive and high-maintenance approaches. Biodiversity is a key principle in contemporary garden design, leading many designers to minimize lawn sizes and adopt meadow-style planting to attract wildlife. Gardens also serve as a means to connect people with their food sources, contributing to the popularity of edible planting and kitchen gardens, even in compact spaces. Garden design encompasses more than just planting, integrating elements such as patios, terraces, greenhouses, garden rooms, pools, and ponds. These structural components are significant investments, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning from the outset. Several garden ideas from the House & Garden archive are presented, offering advice for both front and back gardens. When planning a garden, it is essential to consider its intended use. Angel Collins, a top garden designer, advises prioritizing a seating area, ideally near the house and facing southwest. For budget-conscious gardening, Tabi Jackson Gee suggests a long-term approach, avoiding impulsive purchases from garden centers. This involves careful planning and making the most of available resources. Specific garden types and ideas are explored. Small gardens, including balcony gardens and small front gardens, can be transformed into appealing spaces with proper planning. Nina Campbell's tiny courtyard garden, for instance, features privacy-enhancing walls and abundant greenery. Cottage gardens are characterized by their romantic, abundant, and floriferous appearance, aiming for an impression of artistic disarray. Plants like hollyhocks, foxgloves, and Alchemilla mollis contribute to this look. Front gardens, while often secondary to back gardens, present opportunities for creative design. Emphasizing permeable surfaces, such as gravel driveways and flower beds, is crucial for managing rainwater runoff. Tough, low-maintenance plants and structural shrubs are recommended for year-round interest. Kitchen gardens, like Tom Hoblyn's walled garden, highlight structured beds and defined pathways, with options ranging from traditional layouts to French-style potagers that blend ornamental and edible plants. City gardens often involve maximizing narrow plots, with common layouts including a terraced area near the house, followed by a small lawn or beds. Evergreen planting ensures visual appeal throughout the year, and containers offer flexibility for small spaces. Topiary gardens, exemplified by Mapperton, provide structural elements that enhance winter landscapes. Bay, privet, and Japanese spindle are alternatives to traditional box and yew for clipped forms. Roof gardens, essentially container gardens, require consideration of weight-bearing capacity. Green roofs offer environmental benefits such as microclimate creation, rainwater management, and air purification. Shade gardens emphasize texture, form, and scale rather than abundant blooms, with woodland planting providing inspiration. Balcony gardens, like Charlie McCormick's, benefit from adaptable planting schemes based on sun exposure and efficient watering systems. Mediterranean gardens, suited for sunny, dry climates, are gaining popularity due to their low-maintenance and drought-tolerant characteristics. These gardens feature plants adapted to free-draining, poor-quality soil, often with silvery-grey foliage. Naturalistic gardens, championed by Piet Oudolf, recreate a stylized version of nature using swathes of perennials and grasses for year-round interest. Water features, such as pools, ponds, and rills, are increasingly desired for their aesthetic and ecological benefits. Container gardens offer versatility for rental properties, small balconies, or challenging garden layouts. Garden rooms and sheds provide functional outbuildings, serving purposes from writing studios to storage. Greenhouses are essential for enthusiastic gardeners, enabling winter plant care and early spring seed sowing. Pergolas, draped with climbing plants, create shaded seating and dining areas, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. #GardenDesignIdeas #SmallGarden #CottageGarden #FrontGarden #KitchenGarden #CityGarden #Topiary #RoofGarden #ShadeGarden #BalconyGarden #MediterraneanGarden #NaturalisticGarden #WaterFeatures #ContainerGarden #GardenRooms #Greenhouses #Pergolas #OutdoorLiving #SustainableGardening

The Forager’s Cottage, a 1930s Australian weatherboard bungalow, is home to Helen May Petschel, a retired French homewares dealer. The cottage, steeped in history, showcases a deep appreciation for the past, with original features meticulously preserved by Helen over four decades. Golden autumn sunlight illuminates the interiors at 6 AM, highlighting the seasonal arrangements made from berries and foliage gathered from the garden. Helen expresses her preference for antique and vintage items, particularly European and rural primitive decor, over modern living, emphasizing that everything she acquires is from a bygone era. Her philosophy centers on authenticity, rustic charm, and utility, filling every space with pieces that hold a lifetime of memories. The kitchen is described as the most enchanting space, featuring an old enamel sink, original to the cottage, with a wooden draining board and a green pressed tin splashback that adds period charm. It is filled with well-worn pots and pans, chopping boards, and colorful jars of bottled fruits. Instead of a fitted kitchen, Helen opted for freestanding antique furniture when she and her late husband, Steve, purchased the property. This choice allowed for flexible arrangements over the years with minimal cost. A 1930 original larder remains intact, serving as storage for Helen’s utensils and food. Each item in the cottage carries personal significance, such as an antique dresser in the kitchen, a Christmas gift from Steve, which Helen connects to Beatrix Potter books. This dresser displays her collection of old wares, butter molds, breadboards, earthenware jugs, and bowls, all sourced from Europe. Helen, the second generation to live in the cottage, shares a profound connection to her modest home, which has provided solace through significant personal losses. In 2001, she and Steve lost their 19-year-old son, Phil, to a brain aneurysm, and in 2021, Steve, her husband of 41 years, passed away. Born in England, Helen experienced a transient childhood, frequently moving and never truly having a stable home. A brief, joyful period with her grandfather in Broad Chalke, Wiltshire, ignited her passion for English cottage decor, as the Australian bungalow reminded her of his Tudor cottage. The cottage’s original features contribute to its ethereal atmosphere. Helen recalls her first encounter with the property as stepping into a "time capsule," with everything preserved from 1930, including an old wood stove, a claw-foot bathtub, an old wooden draining board with an enamel sink, and a lead splashback, all of which remain today. In the dining room, an old seamstress’s worktable is repurposed as a dining table, set against Dulux’s ‘Vintage Green’ walls. The living room also features Dulux’s ‘Antique Green,’ enhancing its heritage ambiance. Helen finds joy in simple routines, like collecting pinecones for the evening fire, and appreciates the scent of pine and the sound of wind in the trees during this season. Her interiors, though unpolished, possess a raw charm, showcasing a lifetime of collected treasures that reflect her love for authentic vintage design. Despite its cracks and original paint, Helen chooses not to modernize the cottage, viewing it as a comforting refuge that has supported her through life’s tragedies and heartaches. #EnglishCountryLiving #VintageDecor #AntiqueFurniture #CottageInteriors #PreservedHistory #RusticCharm #HeirloomTreasures #Homemaking #InteriorDesign

Gardens possess a unique ability to evoke nostalgia and whimsy, with secret gardens offering an added layer of adventure and charm. Drawing inspiration from classic storybooks that often feature vivid descriptions of lush, fairy-inspired gardens, this article explores various ways to create a personal, hidden sanctuary within one's own yard. The aim is to infuse a bit of childhood magic into outdoor spaces through thoughtful landscaping choices and the selection of appropriate flora. The article begins by suggesting structural elements that spark curiosity, such as a garden door and wall at the entrance, reminiscent of Mary Lennox's discovery in *The Secret Garden*. For those with budget constraints, a freestanding, timeworn door can achieve a similar enchanting and mysterious effect. Plant selection plays a crucial role; Allium giganteum, with its large, spherical purple flowers, is recommended for its Dr. Seuss-like appearance, adding a storybook aesthetic to garden paths. Topiary bushes, when shaped meticulously, can also contribute to this whimsical atmosphere, though professional help might be needed for initial shaping, with maintenance being a manageable ongoing task. Sensory experiences are highlighted, particularly through the inclusion of fragrant flowers like roses and lavender, chosen for their ability to evoke positive memories and associations. Vintage elements, such as an iron gate, are suggested to give the garden a timeless, decades-old appearance. Vining plants like trumpet vine and wisteria are presented as excellent choices for adding whimsy and a cascading beauty, with wisteria's feather-shaped leaves providing visual interest even after blooms fade. Water features, like fountains, are noted for channeling a historic style congruent with classic garden tales. For those with budget limitations, cement lawn ornaments like statues and bird baths can offer a similar visual appeal. To ensure continuous color and vibrancy, the article advises selecting plants that re-bloom and choosing varieties that bloom at different times throughout the year, from early spring daffodils and irises to late summer zinnias and sunflowers. Playful lawn art, such as mushroom figurines or a complete fairy garden, is encouraged to draw inspiration from other classic tales like *Alice in Wonderland*. Ambiance is further enhanced through mood lighting, utilizing path lights and string lights to create intimate, enchanting pockets of illumination. Structural additions like arched arbors, adorned with climbing roses or ivy, are suggested to create inviting entryways. To cultivate a sense of seclusion characteristic of a secret garden, incorporating tall plants like dahlias or planting in elevated beds is recommended to add vertical height. A deliberate focal point, such as a fountain, gazebo, or greenhouse, can capture visitors' attention and instill a sense of wonder. The color palette of the garden is also addressed, with a strong recommendation for vibrant flowers and the use of contrasting colors from opposite sides of the color wheel to create striking visual impact. Furniture and decor should align with the desired aesthetic; Victorian-inspired cast iron furniture with floral motifs is suggested to echo the era of *The Secret Garden*. Ground cover choices like pea gravel can lend a fairytale look, reminiscent of English cottage gardens. To foster an organic, less manicured feel, scattering wildflowers is advised. Creative DIY lighting, such as combining string lights with twigs, can produce a woodland fairy aesthetic. Allowing ivy to trail along structures contributes to a storybook cottage look. Finally, strategically placing seating areas surrounded by abundant flowers transforms them into enticing escapes, and creating a dining area under a tree offers a magical setting for outdoor gatherings. For larger properties, lining a winding trail with tall blooming shrubs like Pacific rhododendron can enhance the storybook feel, completing the immersive secret garden experience. #SecretGarden #GardenDesign #LandscapingIdeas #OutdoorSpaces #WhimsicalGardens #HomeGarden #GardenInspiration #FairytaleGarden #PlantSelection