Absolutely! Arranging flowers around your new garden benches is a wonderful way to create a inviting and picturesque retreat. Here are some practical tips to make your seating area bloom.
First, consider scale and proportion. For benches, aim for plantings that are about one-half to two-thirds the height of the bench back. This creates a framed, cozy feeling without overwhelming the space. Use taller plants like ornamental grasses, hollyhocks, or foxgloves at the ends or behind the bench, and keep lower-growing varieties like catmint, lavender, or alyssum in front so you can see over them while seated.
Think in layers for depth and interest. Plant the tallest layer at the back (if against a wall or fence), a mid-height layer around the sides, and a creeping or low mound-forming layer at the front. This "thrill, fill, and spill" technique ensures a lush, full look from every angle.
Fragrance is key for a sensory experience. Plant sweet-smelling flowers like roses, jasmine, sweet peas, or herbs like rosemary and thyme near where you'll be sitting. The scent will enhance your relaxation and attract beneficial pollinators like butterflies and bees.
Choose a color palette. For a serene vibe, stick to cool tones like blues, purples, and whites. For energy and warmth, go for hot reds, oranges, and yellows. You can also create a monochromatic scheme using different shades of one color for an elegant effect. Remember to include foliage plants like hostas or heucheras for texture and to make the flower colors pop.
Prioritize long-blooming perennials and repeat-flowering shrubs. Coneflowers, salvia, coreopsis, and hardy geraniums will provide color for months with less work. Tuck in seasonal annuals like petunias or impatiens for instant, vibrant filler.
Ensure easy access for maintenance. Leave a clear, slightly sunken path to the bench and avoid planting thorny roses or spiky plants right where you will walk or sit. Keep a small gap between the bench legs and the plants to allow for air circulation and easy trimming.
Finally, add elements for year-round structure. Evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses, or a small tree planted nearby will give your bench area beauty even in the winter, making it a destination in every season.