Healthy & Beautiful Gardens

Friday, August 15th, 2014 Issue 33, Volume 18.

Hello, fellow gardeners! Even though its not February, I thought this might be a good subject for landscaping this week. I think wed all like a little more romance in our lives, wouldnt we?

I dont recommend planting anything right now. Its a little too warm, but once we get into fall weather assuming we get some fall weather thats an ideal time to get new plants in the ground as they can acclimate well and have plenty of time to get roots established before the spring growth.

Alright then. What do you think of when I say romantic garden? Many people might think of roses or hearts carved into their garden gate, or they might even think of a Jacuzzi spa for two. Those are all romantic of course, but Id like to expand on that as well as give some other possible ideas readers might not have even thought of.

One thing that conjures up romance to me is privacy. This can be accomplished through judicious planning of plant and tree placement as well as hardscaping; hardscaping would be things such as trellises, pergolas and gazebos. All of these structures should be covered with fragrant vines for maximum effect.

Fragrance is one of those elements that add romance to the garden, especially in the evening! Roses (English roses, rugosas, and heirlooms are the most fragrant) and jasmine vines are high on my list, but those are not the only options.

How about lavender, mock orange, heavenly scent, honeysuckle, sweet peas viburnums, wisteria or gardenias? These are all great choices.

Citrus trees are a great addition because they smell great when they flower. Is there anything more scrumptious than the scent of orange blossoms?

Lemon verbena is a great plant because it smells great and can be used for potpourri making also.

Those in the Fallbrook area and west of that may be able to grow some of the more tropical fragrant plants as well. Plumeria would be on the top of my list.

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Healthy & Beautiful Gardens