The Art of Garden Ornamentation – Personalizing & Embellishing Your Garden

The Kawarthas are finally teeming with growth and greenness! As we usher in summer all the gardeners rush to see the result of transplanted efforts from last year. There is nothing like the feeling of seeing the result from digging and splitting amongst swarming mosquitos during the previous year. It is so rewarding to see the new growth double and triple in size, and then finally to reach that point of being able to share a sprig with a neighbour or family member. Gardening is a true example of inclusivity and diversity when you think about all it has to offer.

A key consideration in any garden is the ability to creatively decorate and embellish your garden zones, while embracing nature’s simple yet wild ways. There are so many avenues to take when it comes to lending that personal touch to our gardens and landscaping. Whether your style is “naturally landscaped” or “purposely formal” our gardens present the same opportunity for design and accessorizing as our interiors.

The element of surprise is paramount in building your garden décor, as each garden offers a special space around a corner, under a shade branch or at the end of a meandering path.  Imagine a weathered bench tucked away in a quiet corner, a rustic urn only visible from a certain angle, a figurine flanking steps, a water feature or a patina weathered sculpture atop a large rock. Injecting objects and outdoor furniture helps to bring a focal point to areas that would otherwise go unnoticed or to an area that is ideal for showcasing the many hours of time and attention you have spent nurturing growth.

Here are some ideas to help inspire your garden accessorizing this summer:

Wired for Versatility 
Iron or wire balls are a fantastic sculptural way to add visual interest and detail to a garden nook. The lighter version of these can also be suspended from a tree to overhang a specific garden area. These versatile accessories can also be painted or left to age and patina over time. Both approaches provide a personal and interesting detail for your garden. You can find these at garden centres, retail stores or you can find DIY versions online if you are so inclined. They also come in grapevine or as wood balls which again can add a different texture to your landscape design.

Sculptural Stance
Sculptural pieces can be mounted or displayed creatively within your garden scape.  Sculptures provide height which can add variety and layers to

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your garden zones. You may consider placing at the top of a set of stairs, propped on a large rock or piece of driftwood – there really isn’t a wrong way to display sculpture. Even better, if sourced and made locally, is the idea of featuring a local artist. As in the case of interior accessorizing, it’s another way to bring local influence and interest to your external environment.

Outdoor Console Table 
Another interesting consideration is using an outdoor table to fill an empty wall or space. This could be an antique already-weathered option, wrought iron or cement. A console table allows you to stack pots, planters or other decorative accessories as a focal point. It’s also an unexpected way to interrupt a sightline.  Console tables are often found in potting sheds and greenhouses so why not bring these pieces to other areas of your garden, patio or deck.

Rustic Urns
There is something to surprise and delight in every well thought out garden. Placing an urn, pot or container along a path to delineate the way or placing in an unexpected location is an ideal way to bring interest to a specific area. This helps to extend your garden area and is yet another way to add an expression of interest and personality. Your garden is personal and your container choice can be a reflection of your style and garden theme. Consider containers that would not normally be used as garden pots, like a weathered pail, a hollow stump or antique wood crate. Mixing styles also creates juxtaposition and makes for an eclectic look.

Garden ornamentation has its roots in ancient roman gardens  as well as Italian Renaissance and French formal settings. The English garden style of ornamentation evolved into even more ornate decoration. Some garden styles are built around symbolic meaning and others are more kitsch and whimsical in form. Whatever your style, garden ornamentation can be an enjoyable way to express your ideas and style. Have fun this summer adorning and dressing up your garden, as you would your interior, with artful placements.

Joanne Clark