Unexpected Accents that Make a Garden Shine
As a lifelong gardener, I’ve always been captivated by the power of unexpected garden accents to transform a space. Whether it’s a colorful carved birdhouse, a whimsical zip-tie arbor, or a quirky garden hat adorning a planter, these little touches can elevate a garden from ordinary to extraordinary.
Recently, I stumbled upon the Our Fairfield Home & Garden blog, which showcased a treasure trove of unique garden accents that had me nodding in enthusiastic agreement. Vertical garden planters grouped for impact, succulents in a wire basket, a stone wall fountain – the possibilities for adding personality are endless! And who doesn’t love the idea of garden shoes ranging from bedroom slippers to high heels?
As I read through the post, I couldn’t help but be inspired by the sheer creativity of these homeowners. A succulent wreath on a weathered fence, a wooden slats wall planter filled with succulents, even moss petroglyphs carved into a moss-covered wall – these are the kinds of elements that transform a garden from cookie-cutter to completely unique. And let’s not forget the free lending library built from recycled materials or the whimsical wood scrap scarecrow – proof that an artistic eye and a bit of DIY flair can work wonders.
Grasses for Rhythm and Texture
Of course, when it comes to adding visual interest to a garden, ornamental grasses are an indispensable tool in the designer’s toolkit. As the Harmony in the Garden blog points out, these versatile plants can provide rhythm, texture, and movement in ways that few other plants can match.
Yet, I’m often surprised by how hesitant some clients are to incorporate grasses into their gardens. Perhaps it’s the sheer variety of options that can feel overwhelming, or the fear of dealing with invasive species. But as the blog rightly notes, when used judiciously, grasses can be a true game-changer, providing drought-tolerance, deer-resistance, and year-round interest that other plants simply can’t match.
One of my personal favorites is the blue grama grass, with its delicate “eyelashes” that wave enchantingly in the breeze. I love how the grass transforms from blue-green in spring and summer to a glowing “blonde” in fall, creating a mesmerizing effect when backlit by the afternoon sun. And the cinnamon-colored sedge? Pure perfection when paired with brighter greens and burgundy tones.
Evergreen Gems for All-Season Impact
Of course, no discussion of impactful garden accents would be complete without highlighting the role of evergreen grasses and grass-like plants. As the Gardening Gone Wild blog so eloquently explains, these hardy performers are the unsung heroes that provide year-round structure and interest, even when their flashier counterparts have gone dormant.
Take the lomandra, for example – a tough-as-nails grass that shrugs off deer, rabbits, and drought with equal aplomb. I use these workhorses in so many of my designs, relying on varieties like ‘Platinum Beauty’ and ‘Lime Tuff’ to fill in the gaps and provide a lush, evergreen backbone, even in the depths of winter. And the uniquely variegated foliage of these plants opens up a world of creative color combinations, allowing me to echo the hues of surrounding plants for a truly harmonious effect.
But it’s not just lomandras that deserve a spotlight. The blue-green foliage and iridescent berries of the ABC Home & Garden Sunset Western Collection calamagrostis are another favorite, providing a stunning evergreen presence that thrives in sun or shade. And let’s not forget the tried-and-true ‘Breeze’ lomandra, whose substantial size and contrasting, fine foliage lend a sense of heft and bulk to any planting.
Towering Accents for Maximum Impact
Of course, when it comes to making a statement in the garden, sometimes you just can’t beat a tall, dramatic grass as the ultimate focal point. As the Monrovia blog so eloquently puts it, these towering beauties can serve as the “backbone” of a garden, anchoring the space and drawing the eye irresistibly.
Take the awe-inspiring ‘Fairy Tails’ pennisetum, for example – a drought-tolerant grass that can soar up to 7 feet tall, its chenille-like tassels beckoning to be touched by all who pass. Or the classic ‘Karl Foerster’, a vertical accent that provides visual punch without overwhelming the space. And let’s not forget the mighty miscanthus, a full-bodied grass with wispy foliage and showy tassels that can reach dizzying heights of 12 feet or more.
As I plan my own garden, I find myself constantly drawn to these grand, attention-grabbing grasses. They have a way of commanding the space, creating a sense of drama and wonder that can’t be replicated by smaller plants. And when combined with the unexpected accents I discovered on Our Fairfield Home & Garden, the result is a garden that is truly a feast for the senses – a harmonious blend of rhythm, texture, and unbridled personality.
So if you’re looking to take your garden to new heights, I encourage you to embrace the power of focal points and accents. Whether it’s a towering grass, a whimsical garden ornament, or a lush, evergreen grass-like plant, these elements have the ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. After all, as the saying goes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Happy gardening!
