It is not difficult to make your own landscape design for a summer cottage. Observing a few rules, you can even turn an ordinary cottage into a wonderful garden with your own hands.

How to get started

More recently, some 15-20 years ago, the summer cottage was only a place for planting vegetables and berries. People came there to weed, water and harvest a generous crop, which was certainly canned, salted or pickled. A rare piece of land has not been planted with "useful" plants. There were few flowers and ornamental plants, they were planted only in front of the house or along the path, there was no question of landscape design.

But not all summer residents sought to collect only a large harvest. There have always been gardeners who decorated original flower beds, which involuntarily attracted the glances of passers-by, aroused the admiration of neighbors. Apparently, it was precisely such people who began to actively "introduce" new design ideas for the improvement of the dacha into our minds. Gradually, the craving for beauty began to wake up in every summer resident.

Today, almost every site owner wants to have at least a small recreation area in his garden, decorated with original plants, flowers, a picturesque pond or an alpine slide.

Looking at a photo of some landscape design, the layman will decide that it is unrealistic to do this himself. But if you follow the saying “the eyes are afraid, but the hands are doing it”, then you can gradually arrange your site quite decently.

The main stages of work:

• think over what we want and where we will place it all
• sow the lawn;
• pick up plants.

You can arrange a gazebo, barbecue area, pond or alpine slide. In some areas there is a place for all this, but someone will have to limit themselves to a couple of elements.

IMPORTANT! The lawn is an obligatory part of landscape design, simple weed grass looks sloppy, it will disturb the harmony of the entire exposition.

Do-it-yourself landscape design from coniferous trees

For the improvement of our summer house, by all means need to take some evergreen trees... Thuja, yew, juniper and cypress have already become favorite companions (it is suitable only for warm climates). They do not grow too high, so they will not create a big shadow, they can be shaped into any shape with scissors. By planting them around the perimeter, we get an excellent hedge. These trees fit perfectly into any flower garden, adorn an alpine slide. If there is a wide path on the site, you can place thuja or juniper bushes along it.

Rules for planting and caring for conifers:

• These trees can be planted in fall or early spring.
• The soil should be composed of peat, sand and turf.
• The seedlings need to be watered well.
• When planting several trees, leave at least 1.5 m between them.
• Young plants require fertilization with mineral fertilizers.
• For the winter, conifers up to 5 years old need to be covered.

It happens that the thuja begins to turn yellow after disembarkation. This can happen with poor soil, damaged roots, or sparse watering.

We design with junk materials

Figures made from improvised means or unnecessary things look very cute in the country. Also old furniture, decorated like a flower shelf, looks original.

What seems like rubbish at first glance can be easily turned into a wonderful interior detail by connecting a little imagination. It is difficult for a homebrew designer to come up with something right away or to embody their ideas. Then tips from experienced craftsmen and photos of their work can help.

What are we going to use?

We will need:

• plastic bottles, large and small;
• old dishes (kettles, pots);
• boxes, etc.

For crafts, you need to stock up on multi-colored paint and glue. And, of course, you need to be patient!

We decorate flower beds

What is the secret of a beautiful flower bed? How to plant flowers correctly so that from spring to autumn the appearance of the site is bright?

Landscape designers have come up with several ways to decorate flower beds:

• discount;
• border;
• mixborder.

Rabatkoy called a strip of flowers that borders the lawn. It is often planted in parks with large lawns. The rabatka can be made in one, two or several colors, flowers of different heights can be used, forming a "ladder".

Border- This is the usual planting of plants along the path. For this, annual or perennial flowers are taken. But creeping, densely growing varieties look best. When considering how to effectively arrange flowers in the country, it is better to choose plants of various shades for the border and the main composition.

Mixborder- This is a flower bed, consisting of a wide variety of flowers, planted in groups. The essence of its creation is to combine not only bright contrasting colors, but also plants that bloom at different times. Mixborder should always bloom!

This is not easy to achieve. To create such a miracle, you need to work for more than one season.

Arrange the flowers in the order of seasonal flowering. We divide the flowerbed into three main parts. Each of them should consist of plants blooming in spring, summer and closer to autumn.

Video about creating a flower bed with your own hands

To create such a mixborder, you need to work hard! But then you can enjoy continuous flowering all season.

How to plant a lawn with your own hands

As we said, the lawn is the basis from which we will build... There are several types of lawns. For beginners, it is better to make a universal one, it does not require serious care and is quite suitable for any purpose. And the main goal is beauty, neatness and convenience for rest.

If the land where the lawn is planned is clean, it will need to be dug up, leveled, tamped, and then sown with seeds. From above they need to be covered with dry earth so that the birds do not peck.

Very often, the desire to equip the lawn appears even when the cottage has been built a long time ago, and I want to finally highlight and decorate a corner for relaxation. Usually there is a place where the company constantly gathers, barbecues are fried and there are sun loungers. The grass grows there in scraps, no one has touched it for many years, and the earth is already heavily compacted.

This is a "tough" case for a novice landscape designer.

First of all, we get rid of weeds once and for all!

Now, chemicals are used for this, which are poured over weeds, and then they are dug up. The substance penetrates to the very roots, and the plant dies. After such a procedure, the soil should rest for at least 2 weeks.

Those who deny any gross interference in the affairs of nature can simply uproot the grass from the ground and wait until it begins to germinate again. After 3-4 weeks, the sprouts that have appeared are removed again and carefully dug up. The soil should be loose, without lumps. It is advisable to add mineral fertilizers before digging. They will help the new young grass grow quickly and gain strength.

Then we sow the area with lawn grass. We choose a versatile turf mixture. Why is it suitable for us?

Advantages:

• unpretentious in care;
• normally withstands shade and lack of moisture;
• frost-resistant.

Note! It is unlikely that you will be able to get a good lawn right away. We'll have to work hard for a couple of seasons.

Until the cultivated grass has grown, it will be necessary to constantly remove the weeds, otherwise they will "kill" the young growth. It may be necessary to sow the areas where the birds pecked the seeds, or for some reason it did not sprout.

But after passing all the difficulties, it will be possible to walk barefoot on a dense lawn every year.

Care rules:

• Mow in dry weather (wet grass is difficult to mow evenly).
• We do not let it grow too much (it will be difficult to align it).
• Water during a drought (but do not fill!).

How to equip the entire garden area

We know there are many ways to transform a boring vegetable garden or empty lot. You can add a flower garden or alpine slide to the free space in front of the house, or you can completely redraw the entire plan and arrange everything beautifully. Here the house and the bath are in their places, there are beds, greenhouses, but I want something else. After all, we saw how interesting and picturesque some craftsmen equip their weaving.

To begin with, let's decide what we would like and what we can afford from this.

There is a place for a decorative pond - great! Is there a place for a barbecue? Better! Well, let's not forget about decorating the site with plants, they will solo throughout the season.

In a shop for a garden and a vegetable garden, we acquire a container, which will serve as an artificial reservoir. We dig a hole under it in the chosen place. Be sure to plant low-growing ground cover plants and flowers around the pond. You can put a toy frog, duck or swan in the water. You can make them yourself or buy them.

It would be nice to place a gazebo and a place for a barbecue next to the reservoir. If you don't want to make a stationary gazebo, you can pull up an awning, place a table and chairs under it, and put a barbecue nearby.

We sow lawn grass in all recreation areas and playgrounds.

Be sure to decorate the path with a border of flowers and allocate a place for a mixborder, albeit a small one. Next to it, as well as throughout the site, we will arrange conifers of various shapes and sizes. They still give some special style to the landscape design! Without them, it seems incomplete.

Well, of course, you cannot plant trees and shrubs near the barbecue, they will turn yellow and dry out.

If you have a fence, you can wrap it around with wild grapes or beans.

On a spacious plot, it is easy to find a place for the famous alpine slide, the blue dream of every summer resident.

Key design points:

• lawn;
• mixborder;
• conifers;
• small architectural forms (decorative ponds, gazebos, various figures).

Design of plots of various sizes

Landscaping for 5 ares

Yes! Although he is small, but his own! And on five hundred square meters you want comfort!

Immediately I would like to point out what cannot be done in small areas.

• No need to put up a high fence
• Refrain from planting pine or spruce
• Don't try to squeeze in whatever you like.

The fenced area looks even smaller. It will look more like a cage.

Any hedge can be planted with climbing plants, they will smooth out the borders and serve as an additional decoration.

Pine or spruce will grow up sooner or later and will create a lot of shade. In general, it will take up a lot of valuable space.

Having only 5 acres of land, it is best to make a large lawn and plant small shrubs and islands of various colors.

Landscaping for 10 acres

This area allows you to place more useful objects.

In addition to a house, a bathhouse, a parking space for a car, there will be a children's pool and a cozy gazebo. You can leave room for fruit trees and shrubs, as well as a greenhouse and garden beds.

But even on such a site, you will still have to prioritize and focus either on the garden or on the recreation area.

Having bought a new plot, you should always think over in advance not only the development plan, but also the design. Determine where you will gather with your friends, in what place you will organize a playground, how much space the boarding will take.

12 acres is not 10, and on additional meters you can put a swing and even a trampoline. If there are no children, then a tennis table or a couple of alpine slides will not hurt.

Some people like free space, clean lawn and beautiful shrubs around the perimeter. You can put or plant something there at any time.

On the one hand, such a site is good because it can accommodate almost anything your heart desires. But, on the other hand, it is very important to correctly distribute all functional zones so that there is no feeling of desolation or chaos.

Acquiring such an amount of land, it is unlikely that we are planning to plant it all with potatoes. Therefore, a clear arrangement plan is needed. You need to understand how we will occupy each piece of free space.

The area allows you to divide and divide the site using a hedge (thuja, juniper). Fruit trees and shrubs can be planted along the fence.

In the middle of the site, you can equip a large stationary pool, and arrange everything else around it.

Any free space should be well maintained. Let it be an ordinary lawn, but without trash and weeds.

Particular attention should be paid to the tracks. They can be laid out with paving stones, stone or wood. Along it, you can arrange small lamps that will effectively burn at night.

When creating the design of your site, calculate your strength. Let caring for the summer cottage only bring pleasure.

Spending time outside the city at summer cottages is a favorite pastime of most of the townspeople. Many are anxiously awaiting the end of the working week in order to leave for the country and be with their family (or alone) in the fresh air.

To keep the vacation spot beautiful, some hire landscape designers. But many are engaged in the improvement of their land on their own.

Style solutions for landscapes of summer cottages

Regular style

Style is a classic solution for landscape design. Its main features include pomp, correct geometry, laconicism, and little expressed symmetry.

In order to create a classic landscape style, you need to choose a logical center (for example, a house or a fountain) and build a composition around it.

Create a scheme of paths, flower beds and bushes (strict and symmetrical shapes) and start planting plants according to the plan. To soften the severity of the forms, you can create a fountain.

Landscape style

The style imitates the natural landscape, that is, the natural accent of origin is preserved.

All elements must be placed as naturally as possible on the site. It is customary here to use irregular shapes for reservoirs, not to level the relief and leave wild plants.

Country style

The rustic landscape has a slightly casual, simple and unassuming character.

The rustic style is supported by floral arrangements and decorative elements such as wooden wheels, barrels, carts with flowers.

Japanese style

Meditation and harmony style. Any element of Japanese-style decor should carry its own meaning.

The bushes should have clear shapes; smooth boulders and stone bridges are used to decorate the site.

Oriental style

Suitable for small areas with good sunlight. In the oriental style, colorful colors become the main elements.

It is better to decorate flower beds brightly, lay out paths with mosaics. Any bright or even mirrored accessories will be appropriate for such a landscape solution.

Exotic style

The style combines everything unusual and exotic. Travelers and collectors love it very much. When decorating a plot in an exotic style, unusual and rare plants are used, planting them in several tiers.

It is better to create a compositional solution for such a site from natural materials - wood and stone. In this style, small stylized swamps or ponds are often created on sites.

Alpine style

A very popular style of landscape design today. It is based on an emphasis on highlands and wildlife. Natural materials are used for decoration.

Decorative compositions (ponds, streams and alpine slides) are accompanied by natural stone, gravel, granite or slate.

It is better to place the accent center on an elevation. When decorating a plot in the Alpine style, stone gardens, cascading flower beds and dry streams are often used.

Free style

This style does not impose any mandatory features, but implies the free decision of the owners. Usually free style is accompanied by an abundance of various flowers, loaches and large trees.

In this style, you can combine some features of other styles (for example, landscape and alpine).

The main stages in the development of a general plan for a land plot

Having decided on the style of the future design of the site, you need to start planning. It is necessary to correctly distribute all the elements of decor and gardening over the area of ​​the site.

When preparing the plan yourself, get in advance accurate information about the size of the land plot and its boundaries. Decide on the cardinal points and follow the illumination depending on the time of day.

Record any irregularities and any terrain features. It is also better to get information about the condition of the soil and groundwater. And the main thing is not to forget about communications. All this information will help you plan your site without mistakes.

Planning stages

Site planning

Borders, structures, relief features and a communication scheme are drawn on the plan.

Site zoning

Select on the plan a recreation area, an area for a vegetable garden, an economic and residential area. And apply on these zones a diagram of paths, flower beds, bushes, reservoirs, and decorative elements.

Lighting plan

Functional lighting is used to illuminate a house, parking lot and other buildings in the evening and at night. Decorative lighting helps to illuminate the decorative elements of the site (in this case, decorative lamps are used).

With decorative lighting, it is customary to illuminate steps, paths, underwater (floating) illumination of a pool or pond. A detailed lighting scheme must be developed on the plan, because some of the light sources may require underground wiring.

Land improvement

When a detailed plan of the site has been developed, it is necessary to carry out work on dismantling old buildings and collecting garbage (both construction and vegetation).

Paving paths and sites on the site

Paths are best done with curbs. They help keep water out of areas adjacent to paths or playgrounds. It is necessary to take into account the relief. Track coverage can be:

• herbal (from grass);
• soft (sand or gravel);
• rigid (concrete, brick, tile);
• combined (you can combine types of coatings).

Varieties of landscaping the site

Lawn

It is difficult to imagine any suburban area without grass. Therefore, it is lawns with grass that are the main background for landscape decoration.

Types of lawns:

• roll (sold in rolls already grown by the manufacturer);
• sowing (more affordable, but requiring care and arrangement).

Landscaping vertical

Created from climbing plants (grapes, honeysuckle, hops, sweet peas, etc.). It is hung on special screens or supports.

Trees and decorative lanterns can also be used for vertical landscaping with loaches. You can also create beautiful cascades of potted flowers.

Bushes and trees

To choose trees and shrubs, you need to be guided by your taste and expectations. Whether these are fruit trees or ornamental species depends only on the owners. When choosing, you need to take into account the features of the relief, soil, illumination of the site.

Also pay attention to the compatibility of the selected trees and bushes and the diameters of the crowns. Conifers are very popular in landscape design due to their unpretentiousness.

Hedge from live plants

To create a hedge on your site, you need to decide on its height. If you are planning a high hedge, then purchase conifers (for example, thuja).

A medium-sized hedge can be created from cotoneaster or barberry. A low hedge will be made from undersized shrubs (such as spiraea).

Flower beds

They can be regular (special modular, flower beds or flower borders for paths and grounds), or landscape (they are specially selected to create a natural impression).

When choosing colors, pay attention not only to the stylistic solution, but also to lighting, soil and climate characteristics.

Rock garden

It may include not only an alpine slide, but also a stone garden, rockery, alpine walls.

For such landscaping, it is better to use bulbous, perennial plants (irises, aster, periwinkle, etc.). Coniferous gardening looks great in an alpine solution. The stones should be bought flat and not bright.

Garden gazebos and other structures

Constructions at the summer cottage can be used as elements of landscape design. Decorate them with vertical landscaping (loaches) or flower arrangements in floor or hanging baskets.

Low-growing conifers can be planted around the perimeter of buildings. Decorations in the form of garden accessories and stone compositions look great.

Decorative ponds

Water is used to give the site a special, peaceful atmosphere. Fountains or small waterfalls, a flowing stream or even a fish pond transform the space and give it new contrasts. Plants are planted along the perimeter of reservoirs (decor with irises, conifers, lilies of the valley is very common).

If you decide to create an artificial pond on the site with your own hands, then decide on the shape and size, choose a place (do not place the reservoir close to large trees). The bottom can be made of concrete or you can buy a ready-made plastic mold.

You can also purchase a waterproof sheeting and use it to create a pond base (the most popular way to build a pond today). A concrete base is the most expensive, but durable. Plastic impresses with its ease of installation.

Having decided on the base, draw a contour of the reservoir on a previously cleaned area and start digging a pit. Cover it with sand and tamp it. Then lay geotextile along the bottom and lay the film on it.

Dig a trench around the perimeter of the reservoir and tuck the edges of the film into it. Now you can add gravel and water.

The film in the trench must be fixed with soil after it is stretched from the water. The trench can be decorated with stone. And an artificial reservoir, created with your own hands, will become a real decoration of the suburban area and the pride of the owners.

Photo of the landscape design of the suburban area

, this is not only a neat design of the local area, but also a wonderful opportunity to make your ideas and dreams come true. There are many elements and nuances in this design direction. It is not at all necessary to complete special courses, our review will help you create yourself a luxurious landscape design of a summer cottage. You can see photos of the most interesting layouts during our review. So let's set off on a journey through the amazing world of landscaping, design ideas and original ideas.

In fact, the concept of landscape design of a site appeared not so long ago, but the origins of this trend date back to ancient times. For the first time, ancient gardens appeared in Persia, Babylon and Ancient Egypt. Various types of flowers were planted in these territories, and the reservoirs were covered with nymphs and lotuses. An example of the amazing landscape art of past centuries is the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Landscape art was formed in China and Japan. A special oriental style arose there, in which every natural element has a symbolic meaning.

The basic principles and laws of landscape design have been created for more than one century. Currently, the landscape design of the personal plot is an integrated approach to the design of the territory. It is assumed that the space should be in harmony with the inner feelings of the owner and reflect his interests and tastes.

Landscaping is a real art with certain laws, principles and rules.

The improvement is based on the following components:

• planning and design. To get a thoughtful design, it is better to transfer all ideas to paper. This will allow you to divide the entire space into functional zones, as well as correctly plan systems and;
• an important stage of registration is. In this case, one should take into account the shape, color palette and general style of landscape design of the garden plot.

It is worth noting the basic design principles:

• integrity. The location of identical elements in different areas of the site;
• simplicity. In nature, everything is natural and therefore you should not use complex shapes and too many shades;
• balance principle. It can be both symmetrical and asymmetrical;
• filling the design. Assumes a harmonious combination of different cultures;
• smooth transitions. Tall trees are planted in the background, followed by medium and lowest trees in front.

In this video, you will find various tips for arranging the site and planting it back.

For your information! Now the trend is to strive for primordiality and naturalness. A fashionable solution is an alpine slide and a Russian garden, combined with elements of technological progress.

The main styles of landscape design for a summer cottage

Before we start creating landscape design at their summer cottage, let's look at popular styles.

Classic landscape design of a summer cottage: photo options

Landscaping in a classic design assumes clear geometric lines. The composition is necessarily complemented by an eye-catching decor in the form of waterfalls or ponds. Classic designs require a lot of space. It is suitable for landscaping a plot of 15 acres.

The following elements are often used:

• reservoirs;
• sculptures;
• furniture sets;
• tracks;
• plants.

Ponds are often made in correct geometric configurations. They are round, oval and rectangular. Objects are necessarily framed, trees or.

Terraces that rise above the surface of the earth will perfectly fit into this style. Sculptures are an indispensable attribute of the classics. Furniture sets are made from forged items and stone products.

Landscape style

Landscape or English style is especially popular. The main feature of the design is the smoothness of the paths and the use of natural materials for decoration. Asymmetry and calm colors can be used. The site should not have sharp corners and clear lines.

When creating alpine slides, the following rules apply:

• symmetry is not applied;
• imitation of a real mountain landscape;
• stones of different shapes, textures and sizes are used.

The alpine slide must have overall dimensions. It is not recommended to stir it against a wall or. Features such as uneven terrain, wild flowers and irregular ponds are used.

In the photo below you can see what the landscape design of a landscape garden looks like:

Landscape design can complement a beautiful gazebo

Country style and photo examples

The rustic country style was first used in Europe. The following design features are worth noting:

• the site must contain yellow sunflowers, orange pumpkins, tomatoes and flowering fruit trees;
• small architectural forms are made of wood;
• wicker hedges, winding paths and supports for climbing crops will perfectly fit into the design;
• various antiques are used - watering cans, cart wheels and low fences made of poles;
• flowers, shrubs and trees are planted without any clear planning. It is important to create a sense of carelessness;
• will fit into the exterior of a log house, a garden bridge or a fence with a small palisade.

Rustic landscaping is especially suitable for a small plot.

Oriental style and features of its application

The eastern direction is suitable for landscape design of a plot of 4 ÷ 6 acres. As the main decorative elements, flower beds with bright vegetation, domed and fountains with all kinds of mosaic patterns are used. Required for oriental exteriors.

When designing this style, it is not necessary to use expensive materials. Beautiful elements can be made from available tools. For example, a mosaic ornament can be made from the remains of a ceramic one.

Asian style for a simple site

Asian gardens have a history of more than one millennium. Mostly it is about Chinese and Japanese design.

The main difference between a Japanese garden is laconicism. A small area is enough for registration. In this case, one tree and many stones can be used. The design necessarily includes water, plants, architectural elements and stones.

An important element of the garden is bonsai or dwarf trees, which are grown using a special technology. The patio can be decorated with accents of Japanese culture - screens, stone and tree décor, and lanterns. The Asian arrangement of the territory is ideal for landscape design of a small-sized plot of 4 acres.

The Chinese garden is based on the Feng Shui traditions. The planning is carried out taking into account the harmonious balance of Yin and Yang. The landscape is complemented by the magnificent elements of Chinese culture: interesting architectural forms and original lanterns.

Exotic in the country

The exotic direction allows you to use the most extraordinary ideas. Interesting compositions can be made from different materials. It could be a stone. Also exotic plants and small bodies of water are used. Such a landscape design is recommended for a suburban area from 10 to 20 acres. However, it may have an irregular shape.

For decoration, many plants are used, a bright color palette, etc. From the trees you can choose plum, Tatar maple and cherry. The design can be complemented with honeysuckle, barberry and Japanese quince.

Bamboo or barberry are used as screens and hedges. On the terrace, you can put cacti or dracaena. A hammock or can be used as garden furniture.

Free style

Free style allows you to bring the most incredible creative ideas to life. The main elements include large trees, climbing crops and all kinds of flowers. You can mix several styles at once.

This video presents the most popular styles:

Stages of planning the landscape design of a country house and a site

You can do the planning of landscape design near the house with your own hands. The existing layout types can be seen in the photo.

Planning comes in the following options:

• geometric planning allows you to divide the site into the territory;
• landscape used for registration of plots;
• mixed variety planning suitable for different areas.

Layout

You can make the plan yourself. To do this, follow these steps:

• draw the contours of the territory on the sheet;
• mark all natural bodies of water and uneven terrain;
• mark all buildings outside the perimeter. This must be done in order to maintain all the required distances;
• define all areas of illumination;
• note the prevailing wind direction and cardinal directions.

The table shows the main options for layouts:

Views	Peculiarities
Rectangular layout	The most popular is the landscape design of a rectangular area. It allows for convenient zoning and is suitable for creating geometric designs.
Round	This design is created from a rectangular version using lawns, green spaces and flower beds. Straight shapes are masked by decorative elements.
Diagonal layout	It is a layout of diagonal parallels. The diagonal option allows you to visually increase the boundaries of the territory.
Free layout	The natural relief of the area is used, which is decorated with various design elements. At the same time, it is important to organically place accents.

Designing first involves designing and landscaping.

Zoning

Correct zoning will help make a large area more comfortable or visually increase a small area. The division into functional zones is carried out, both for the design of a plot of 15 acres, and 4 acres. You can see interesting photos and projects on our website.

The territory can be divided into the following zones:

• garden area;
• rest zone;
• dining area;
• sports area.

Divided into separate areas, the site should look like a whole. One zone should smoothly transition into another.

Lighting device

An important component of the exterior is lighting. It serves many functions. Correctly placed light can emphasize all the advantages of the site and mask the flaws.

Use lighting to arrange your summer cottage with your own hands. You can see the best ideas in the photo. Landscape lighting performs the following tasks:

• lighting of functional areas and platforms. Illumination is necessary for a terrace, gazebo, garage or pool;
• protection from strangers on the site. Lighting fixtures in every corner deter intruders;
• decoration of the territory. Lighting is used, shrubs, reservoirs and a variety of architectural forms.

Arrangement of tracks and platforms

An important design element is the garden path. Tracks of different sizes, shapes and materials are used depending on the specific style. Center lanes should be more solid. Mosaic decor looks great.

For garden paths, the following material is used:

• gravel;
• a natural stone;
• pebbles;
• cover from;
• paving stone

Courts and paths should be consistent with the main exterior style.

For your information! To prevent the paths from overgrowing with weeds, it is recommended to lay a film under the backfill. And so that weeds do not penetrate into the gaps between the tiles, they are planted with lawn grass and moss.

Making a summer cottage: the main methods of landscaping

An important stage in the arrangement of a summer cottage is landscaping. In this case, different methods are used for decoration.

Lawns

If you plan to place a cascade or fountain in the water, then the reservoir should be placed near the source of electricity.

Pool

With the right approach, the pool can become not only a place of relaxation, but also a magnificent decoration.

You can take a ready-made bowl as a basis. This will facilitate the work on the arrangement of the water structure.

The design of the plot with the pool deserves special attention. It should complement the basic design of the territory. For decor, multi-colored stones, picturesque rocks or bright plants are suitable. When creating landscaping for 12 acres, you can install not only a pool, but also add a waterfall.

Pond

The pond is one of the simplest water structures. It is suitable for almost any area. The pond is decorated with natural materials and a variety of plants.

A small pond can become part of a landscape composition. Its purpose is to decorate the garden. The decorative pond is decorated with fountains, lights and bridges.

Do-it-yourself garden structures in the landscape design of a summer cottage

The brazier should not be placed next to perennial plants or near households. If a canopy is used, then you need to think over the hole for the chimney.

Gazebos

For the construction of a gazebo, you should choose the most picturesque place of the summer cottage. It is good if there is a reservoir nearby. The building should be placed on a dais.

Gazebos can be of different configurations - polygonal, with or without a roof. And also made of wood, forged items, bamboo and other materials. A popular patio is located in the area adjacent to the house. Such a structure is made of stone, tile, wood or concrete.

You can decorate a recreation area with the help of weaving crops. A brazier can be placed next to the gazebo.

The territory of the suburban area offers a wide scope for the implementation of creative ideas, so you need to study the rules with which you can competently create a stylish landscape design on your territory.

Peculiarities

The landscape design of a summer cottage is a complex of works on the improvement of household estates. This area should fully reflect your taste preferences and interests, so you should approach the choice of the environment wisely.

Any type of landscape design, even if it is done by hand, should begin with a detailed plan. If you turn to professionals, they will be able to offer you many original ideas. However, you must remember that landscape design is a whole system of measures with the help of which your site should acquire a single style where all buildings and vegetation are combined.

It is important to remember the following features so that the arrangement of the territory looks competent and rational:

• when creating a project, you should build on the climatic features of the area. Some exotic plants will not be able to survive in the weather conditions in your region, so choose the right varieties;
• the type of relief is important for the choice of the project, since in each area different activities should be carried out, which consist in the location of buildings, the location of the garden and vegetable garden, and other functional areas;

• the location on the cardinal points affects the layout of the design. This factor should be taken into account when choosing a place for a garden, trees, vegetable garden and summer cottages;
• so that your site amazes other people and pleases the whole family, you should take care of the decor. For example, you can decorate your homestead with natural stone. Create a mosaic of it for garden paths and the area will noticeably change. Also, this material is actively used as a design for water structures;
• Proper lighting plays an important role in design. With the help of modern LEDs, you can get an unusual light effect for individual elements or for the whole cottage as a whole.

Actual styles

Many owners of summer cottages want to make their homestead unusual and special. There are many styles that you can use to express your emotions and transform the countryside. Having studied the features of each design, you can choose the most optimal option that will emphasize your taste and the atmosphere of summer cottage life.

Classic

This design is called regular and is often chosen by lovers of traditional solutions. This style is characterized by strict lines, weakly expressed symmetry of compositions along with competent forms. If you choose such an interior, you will need to monitor the site well and regularly take care of the territory... Everyone will be able to create a landscape design in a similar direction.

For furnishings, be sure need to mark the center... It can be a living space, a beautiful fountain, or a sculpture. The construction of the composition begins from this object. Arrange symmetrical paths, beautifully trimmed shrubs, lawns, decorative fences, or attractive flower beds around the key link.

Through fountains and sculptures, you can smooth out the severity of the setting, giving it peace and a sense of unity with nature.

Landscape

In this design, there is the main rule - the invisibility of the man-made creation of the environment. All components must be located natural and free. From the outside it should seem that everything was created by nature, and not by man. Irregularities in the relief, reservoirs with irregular shapes, wild vegetation are approved.

The style is chosen by romantic personalities and fans of the natural landscape. For the arrangement of such a territory, large financial costs and constant care will not be required. Natural beauty is the main principle in creating a landscape style with your own hands.

Rustic

Country style has cheerful notes, unpretentiousness and naturalness. You can use bright colors in it. Another name for this design is "Russian estate". He attracts many people with his simplicity and casual furnishings. For the arrangement of the territory, you can use unpretentious varieties of plants, compositions in a rustic style.

Use wooden wheels, flower beds in the form of wooden barrels and other components made from natural materials as decoration.

This style is suitable for a homestead of any size, but it is best to equip it in small areas.

English

The English style is characterized by small mounds on which the lawn grows, bodies of water with natural forms and winding paths. All shrubs should be trimmed beautifully and the garden should be decorated with beautiful flowers. Asters, dahlias, daisies look beautiful in design.

The recreation areas should be located in the depths of the garden. Deciduous tree varieties need to be planted around it, which will hide a place to relax from prying eyes.

Provence

Provence is associated with lightness and expressiveness. You can always recognize it by its numerous decorative elements. A cozy atmosphere will be created by garden figures, flower beds, beautifully designed garden paths.

The main element of this style is the aromatic herbs, which are reminiscent of the atmosphere of a vacation in the south of France.

Japanese

Calm and harmony are combined in Japanese design. Only simple and symbolic objects are present here. A plot designed in this style will help you escape from the daily hustle and bustle and give you time to think about eternity.

For decoration, you can use stone bridges, trimmed shrubs with clear outlines and processed boulders. This style is the most suitable for a small estate with an area of ​​6-8 acres.

Oriental

If you have purchased a small family estate, pay attention to this type of landscape design. The arrangement will require a lot of sunlight. As a decor, use paths, water structures with mosaic patterns, bright flower beds, dome-shaped roofs and arrow-shaped windows for decorating gazebos. Mirrors and bright components must be present on the territory.

You can create such an interior from scrap materials. For mosaics, use remnants of tiles and unnecessary mirrors, and with the golden color you will give the elements an expensive look.

Exotic

This setting will suit travelers, lovers of unusual combinations. The landscape should contain exotic types of plants, which are located in tiers throughout the territory. All compositions must be made from natural raw materials: stone, dark varieties of trees.

Small streams and ponds will give the environment a natural feeling.

Alpine

The Alpine style is popular when arranging summer cottages. It will be acceptable for territories of different sizes. The design will amaze your guests with mountain drops that will remind you of beauty and pristine nature.

As a central link, use a residential house, which will be located on a hill, rockeries and rock gardens. Each decorative composition should contain natural stones. This rule also applies to alpine slides, artificial reservoirs, streams, flower beds. As a finishing material, you can use granite, slate or gravel. The design looks beautiful with a cascading arrangement of flower beds with ponds, dry streams and stone gardens.

Free

The name itself speaks of its mood. You can mix several styles in such a design, observing the main condition: the atmosphere should be harmonious and calm. Plant large trees, climbing vegetation, and lots of flowers in your area.

You can combine the regular style with the landscape style by arranging the area with an alpine slide and diluting the atmosphere with a modern fountain. There are many ideas, so rely entirely on your imagination.

When decorating a summer cottage in a free style, remember about a sense of proportion, which will help you create a cozy atmosphere.

Zoning rules

Zoning is an important step in landscape design. You will need to draw up a plan that will indicate the location of all paths, flower beds, vegetation, shrubs, fruit crops. When drawing up a plan, be guided not only by the aesthetic component, but also by the functionality. You will need to designate several objects on your territory:

• living area;
• the place where the outbuildings will be located;
• recreation area;
• garden and vegetable garden areas.

Based on your goals and taste preferences, you can increase one of the zones by decreasing the other. For example, you can place the pool in place of the vegetable garden if you do not plan to dig in the beds. Families with children should consider organizing a playground.

Landscape zoning should be based on the following principles:

• the most illuminated place should be allocated for the lawn. Most mixes contain cereals that require a lot of sunlight. If you follow this rule, you will get a beautiful lawn that will decorate the territory;

• the recreation area should be located in a place where there is no strong wind. You will also need to provide the territory with partial shade. With the help of such accommodation, you can ensure a comfortable stay for people;
• in the area where there is shade, you can arrange a lawn of ground cover plants, shade-loving flowers or inert materials. These include pebbles, tree bark or decorative chips. There are no plants that like shade, but there are varieties that can thrive in it. These varieties can be filled with shadow areas.

• the playground where you will gather with friends and cook kebabs should be located next to the kitchen. Remember the safety precautions and install the grill away from the wall of the house. The minimum distance should be 6 meters;
• the playground should be located near the place where you will gather with friends. Also, this area should be visible from the kitchen windows;
• all zones must be connected by paths.

These rules are key, they will help you in the correct zoning of the landscape. By applying them, you can equip an interesting and comfortable garden area.

Lawn

Skillful builders lay flooring in houses, and summer residents cover the territory with a lawn. In the past, the lawn was considered an unacceptable luxury and was present only on the sites of the emperors, but now everyone can decorate their homestead with a carpet of soft grasses.

It takes patience and a lot of energy to make the lawn take root. In the end, however, you will get a good result that will serve as the basis for other elements of landscape design.

The grass carpet performs not only a decorative function, it has a positive effect on the structure of the soil, helps to make the air in the area cleaner and muffles extraneous noise.

With the help of a lawn, you can get interesting solutions that depend on the choice of the type of coverage:

• traditional lawn. It is a single color medium density coating;
• sports lawn. This is a denser type of vegetation that is not afraid of heavy load;
• decorative grass covering. This lawn is for beauty purposes only. It is prohibited to walk on it.

Flower beds

A flower bed is no longer a simple circle or rectangle in which a row of flowers grows. At the moment, there are elegant and thoughtful models that demonstrate the good taste of their owner, and create a cozy atmosphere at their summer cottage.

Vertical flower beds are often chosen for arranging urban spaces, but they can also be used profitably for summer cottages. Forget that flowers have to grow on the ground. Plants only need soil that can be positioned at the level of human growth. Vertical beds require less space than traditional models. This solution makes the site original.

For vertical flower beds, flowering plants and ornamental vegetables are often used. For fans of unusual solutions, designers suggest planting herbs of spicy varieties or greens in such designs. You can also use a climbing fruit crop. Clematis looks great in such a flower garden.

Traditional forms of vertical flower beds:

• pyramid. In it, the plants are in a container, which consists of several tiers;
• tower of flowers. It is similar to a pyramid, but the diameter of the tiers does not decrease.

Rabatkas are flower strips that line garden paths, fences or lawns. To create such a flower bed, the planting width should be observed, the minimum value of which is half a meter. During the flowering of the plants, you will get a bright carpet.

There are several types of discounts:

• one-sided. They are located along the wall of the house or fences;
• bilateral. Such flower beds are located in the center of the alley.

You can plant any flowers in the bed that have a low stem, brightness and are combined with each other.

Mixborders are a flower garden in which there is a harmonious combination of herbs, miniature shrubs and small varieties of trees. Caring for such a flower garden is quite difficult, since each plant requires special conditions. Weeding is a lot of inconvenience as the mixborder must have a dense planting. Often in such a flower garden, a panicle hydrangea is planted in the background.

Peculiarities:

• the presence of free lines and shapes of the flower garden;
• the presence of tall flowers in the background or in the center, depending on the viewing point of the flower bed;
• the use of contrasting colors or uniformity.

Ornamental trees and shrubs

Choose trees and shrubs based on your preference. Most summer residents want to receive fresh fruits and berries every year, so they buy fruit crops. Another category of people opts for decor. Designers recommend combining the two options, which allows you to get an interesting combination.

When choosing plants, the following nuances should be considered:

• type of soil and microclimate features;
• prevalence of winds and illumination of the site;
• relief features;
• vegetation compatibility, crown density and diameter;
• seasonality of plants.

To arrange a landscape project, you can use fruit and ornamental types of trees. Conifers have gained wide popularity. They are unpretentious, equip the site with coolness in the summer season and look attractive in winter. In summer cottages, you can plant pines, thuja, juniper. Among the bushes, lilac bushes, jasmine, dogwood, hawthorn are in demand.

Water structures

An important place is given to the arrangement of the aquatic environment on the territory of the summer cottage. Such structures are popular with customers and designers themselves. To make the right choice, you need to decide what you want to get from the reservoir.

Landscaping with water features can be a practical or decorative solution. You have the opportunity to use the reservoir for specific purposes (for example, use water to irrigate the area) or install an artificial lake for beauty. In the projects of summer cottages, any of the options or their combination can be used.

You will need to decide on the type of water structure, purchase the necessary materials, familiarize yourself with the requirements and purchase the necessary equipment. Take care of buying plants that will grow near water.

In landscape design, not only stagnant bodies of water can be present. Depending on your idea, you can equip your territory with fountains, cascades or waterfalls. Each of these solutions is able to decorate the territory and give it an original appearance.

Rest zone

The owners of suburban areas spend time not only for gardening, but also like to relax with their friends.

To make your stay as comfortable as possible, you should equip a cozy corner, in which there will be a brazier, a gazebo and benches.

The selected site can be open or closed. It will take less costs to equip an open area, but arranging a recreation area with a small canopy will give it comfort and protection from weather conditions. It is best to place such a place. in the backyard. Place a play area for children nearby. If there is a reservoir nearby, the territory will be blown with pleasant freshness on hot weekdays. If there is no reservoir on your homestead, you can place a site near the well.

The presence in such an area of ​​a barbecue for frying meat or a fireplace on the street is not only a decoration, but also a functional component. In a place to relax, you should consider and a plot for a gazebo. In it, you can communicate with your company, admiring the beautiful landscape. Climbing plants or hedges can be planted as decoration. Crafts on the territory of this zone will act as a decoration.

How to choose a color scheme?

A competent choice of color palette in a landscape design project can decorate even the simplest project with a small budget. To give the area a harmonious look, you should take into account the color scheme of the components, which are divided into several categories.

Natural landscape

It contains trees, shrubs, hills, boulders, lakes and paths of natural origin. All the objects that you want to leave on your homestead will influence the choice of the color scheme of the territory.

When choosing colors, keep in mind that the natural palette can change with the changing seasons, climatic conditions in your area.

Architectural objects

These components include a residential building, household buildings (garage, bathhouse, greenhouses, sheds and terraces). Also in this category are various bridges, gazebos, awnings and other structures. Make sure that the facade of the building and the components of each building are combined with each other in color. One of the objects should become an accent of the territory, so there is no need to paint all buildings in one color.

Choose an accent spot that will stand out in the area and become the center of the design. In most cases, this role is assigned to a residential building, and the rest of the objects are located around it, maintaining a single style.

Decor elements

All plantings, water features, flower beds and rock gardens that were created by man are located in this category. There are many options with which you will manipulate color tones and shades. Due to the blooming vegetation, you can arrange a beautiful "carpet" that will decorate the territory throughout the summer.

Some designers offer their clients to use an alley of evergreen varieties to provide a stable color background on the estate.

Other components

Paths, playgrounds, platforms and decks, statues, hammocks and even swings can be placed here. Each of these components is able to leave its mark on the overall design of the site. The color palette plays a key role in creating the mood of the territory. The combination of shades allows you to hide the flaws of the site, visually expand its area or modify the shape of the territory without drastic actions.

Design options

There are many ideas that allow you to design a backyard farm. When choosing a project, one should proceed from the dimensions of the site, since the area of ​​the territory plays a major role in this.

To equip a small plot of about 4 acres, you should pay attention to the geometric style, which was previously used in vegetable gardens. With its help, you can take advantage of the available site at the maximum level. Originality in design can be achieved with the help of non-standard solutions. As an example, consider vertical gardening.

Fruit trees located on the north side will help in the correct organization of the space, and will also act as a wall that will protect the house from the cold wind. Construction objects and greenhouses can be located in the northern territory of the garden plot.

If you have nothing to hide from prying eyes, give up high fencing... A tall hedge in a small area enhances the feeling of being crowded. You can add space with the flowing lines of garden paths.

The main rules for decorating a summer house are independent of its area. Trees with a house and a shed should also be located in the northern part of the territory. In large areas (from 10 acres), there are more opportunities for the implementation of ideas on the south side. Here you can place a recreation area, plant a lawn and even build a bathhouse.

Plots of this size can be decorated with a Japanese garden. Such an idea requires the installation of a gazebo and equipping the territory with an artificial stream. You can arrange a wilderness corner with forest trees, or consider ideas for a vegetable garden.

A plot of 12 acres allows you to place not only residential buildings, but also miniature water structures with waterfalls. The land that will be extracted when creating a reservoir can be used as a base for an alpine slide. It can also be used as an independent component in the layout.

The central path looks good with scattering narrow paths that will lead you to a recreation area or to a stream.

Track decoration

The layout of the tracks is designed based on the required access to the zones. Experts advise taking a "tour" past the most attractive areas. An easy path to the flowers and the vegetable garden should be provided. The width of the paths must be of the required size so that two people can easily disperse on it. The best solution is considered to be one meter wide.

Main paths should be smooth, without sharp turns. Walking paths that lead past fruit crops and flowers can be complex. Design paths so that your guests can admire the garden elements from any angle.

On summer cottages, there should be a small slope on both sides to prevent the formation of puddles. This solution allows you to "water" the nearby flower beds during the rains and remove dust from the path itself.

Garden paths should be made of materials that are durable, aesthetically pleasing and resistant to temperature changes. As a rule, in suburban areas, decorative tiles, stone or concrete coverings are used. If you prefer a natural design, you can sprinkle the paths with sand or gravel.

Lighting

Most people choose functional lighting, forgetting about the decorative component. However, well-chosen lighting will make your site attractive not only in the daytime, but also in the evening.

To illuminate paths, turns and buildings, you can use diffused soft light, which will ensure safe movement through the territory, without interfering with observation in the rest of the territory.

To provide the site with functional lighting, you can purchase built-in lighting equipment. These luminaires are installed along paths, at the edges of steps or near railings. They act as "guiding lights" without being blinded by bright light. Some people choose bollard lanterns that act as a fence during the day. The posts can be of any design, so you can choose a model that will support the concept of the site.

Through decorative lighting, you can emphasize all the advantages of the territory, highlighting individual fruit crops or flower beds. To illuminate shrubs or aesthetics, use spotlights that sit on the ground. They will delight the eye with colored lighting and bring a festive mood.

Subtleties of lighting a suburban area:

• cottages require lamps with a lower power level than in the city;
• opt for energy-saving lamps;
• Consider an option with separate inclusion of technical and decorative lamps;
• provide the power cable with good insulation.

"Dacha hard labor" is a phrase that should disappear from our vocabulary forever. A "summer vacation" begins with the preparation of the site - and landscape design. Consider a photo of the best landscape design options for a summer cottage near a country house.

"Dacha is not about rest." Somehow it has become a tradition since the times of the Soviet Union that the concept of "dacha" and "vegetable garden" for us is closely related. A country house (dacha) for the older generation is not a place of rest, but a means of survival. Are you jealous of the models in the pictures about vacationing in a cottage by the river? Have you always dreamed of your own small forest with a gazebo and a hammock, but do you associate your summer cottage with garden beds, seasonal potato work and, at best, barbecue? It's time to break the stereotypes and finally equip the cottage so that it would be pleasant to spend time there.

Where to start the design of a site near a country house

It is worth starting the arrangement of the dacha with those very "hundred parts", usually covered with beds with cucumbers and dill. Meanwhile, the summer cottage is a good opportunity to try yourself in the role of a landscape designer.

The first step is to sketch out a plan for your site. When designing a garden, you need to build on the location of the house. Mark where there are already buildings (in addition to the country house, there is often a garage, a summer kitchen or a shed for tools on the territory). Now is the time to think about what you are missing for a good rest. with barbecue? A pond with goldfish? Garden beds with your favorite strawberry variety? Whatever your imagination suggests, write down and place on the plan.

PLEASE NOTE! plant heights on the site should decrease from north to south. The beds are where it is warmer. Trees are where the north is.

Designing and decorating a summer cottage yourself will require patience, knowledge in many areas and significant effort from you. In the design excitement and impulse of inspiration, do not forget what exactly you wanted to see on the site from the very beginning. It is very easy to get carried away and lose the main point in the process. As a result, instead of a cozy garden and a dream house, you run the risk of getting the same chaos from the beds from which you started the redevelopment.

Feel free to embody bold ideas and trust your intuition, but try not to stray too far from the key idea and style that appeals to you.

Tracks

The paths are laid out depending on which parts of the garden you need access to. A good solution - lay a "sightseeing route" past those places of the site that look the most attractive... There must be an easy path to the beds and flower beds (if you saved them).

Note! Main lanes should be smooth without sharp turns.

A walking route among trees or flowers can be made winding and challenging, so that guests have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of a flower bed or garden composition from all sides.

There is not as much space at the summer cottage as we would like. But even with conditional tightness, the width of the track must be chosen taking into account the fact that two people must freely "disperse" on it. The optimal width is considered to be 1-1.5 meters.

The garden path should have a slight slope on both sides - then puddles will not form on it. In addition, rainwater from the path will additionally "water" nearby flower beds and wash away dust from the path itself.

The material for the garden path must be resistant to temperature changes, durable and aesthetic. Most often, concrete, stone or decorative tiles are used to decorate paths in a summer cottage. A more natural option is paths sprinkled with sand or gravel. Mosaic pebble paths look very attractive.

Lighting

Landscape design has received less attention than room decoration. What can we say about the lighting of the site, if it is not always remembered in interior design? With the right lighting, the area can look more interesting in the evenings than during the day.

We use functional lighting, but forget about decorative lighting. To illuminate the paths, turns and buildings on the site, there is enough diffused soft light, which makes it possible to move safely around the yard, but does not distract from observing the garden.

Recessed luminaires are perfect as functional lighting. They can be mounted along paths, at the edges of steps and near railings. The main purpose is to serve as "guiding lights", while not blinding or irritating the eye. You can also use lamps on poles - if you are not embarrassed by the fact that in the daytime around the garden paths will be visible "fence". Bollards are available in all possible styles, so even a technical lighting element can be used to maintain the overall mood of the space.

Thanks to decorative lighting, you can create emphasize all the advantages of the site by highlighting individual trees or highlighting flower beds.

Ground-based mini-floodlights are usually used to illuminate shrubs, trees or decorative items. They are able to give not just a warm or cold tone of illumination, but to illuminate the area with any color - thanks to filters on the glass.

Features of lighting for a summer cottage:

• lamps need less power than in the city
• it is better to choose energy-saving lamps
• it is desirable to provide for the possibility of separate switching on of technical and decorative lighting
• the power cable for the backlight must be well insulated so that you do not accidentally damage it when gardening

Garden figurines

Garden figurines of gnomes, animals and mythical characters are very popular in the West, where each of the characters has its own story. You can install any decor on the site. The main thing is that it does not look like a "foreign body" and matches the style of the house and garden. Garden gnomes tend to hide in bushes, while a forest fairy must live by a tree. Create your own fairy tale about how the Easter bunny or dragon got into your garden.

Landscaping of a garden plot

Tall plants are best placed on the north side. The middle strip of the site is taken out by the bush. If you decide to keep a few beds of tomatoes and peppers "for salad" - these plants thrive best in sufficient light, on the south side of the orchard.

All typical country gardens are planned in a regular style. Gardens, greenhouses and even rows of trees are arranged in a geometric order.

Landscaping involves a more natural and natural arrangement of trees and flowers. Particular attention is paid to the nuances of the relief. If there is a hillock at the summer cottage, you should not level it. Try to beat the composition that nature has already created for you.

Alpine slide

Alpine slide is a small piece of real mountains, created by your hands. A simple pile of stones with flowers somehow stuck between them is not yet an alpine slide. This decor is not as easy to create as it seems. Before embarking on the implementation of the composition, it will not be superfluous to plan it on paper. This hill has peaks and cliffs, flat plateaus and a green valley.

The arrangement of the slides begins in the fall. The first layer is gravel or broken brick, on top of which an earthen mixture is poured (of course, a slide). The approximate height is about a meter (later, when the ground "sits down", the slide will be slightly lower).

After shrinkage, large stones are mounted uphill (they are half buried in the ground). Medium and small elements are placed on top. The choice of plants for the slide depends not only on their soil and light requirements, but also on the overall style of the site. But first of all, you should pay attention to flowers and herbs that do not need complex care.

Important! The basis for the alpine slide is perennial plants, while annual flowers can be transplanted several times a year, updating and changing the look of the slide.

Popular plants for an alpine slide:

• edelweiss;
• sedum;
• saxifrage;
• lumbago;
• lipstick.

Flowerbeds in the garden

A flower bed is not necessarily a familiar circle or rectangle filled with even rows of flowers. Creating an elegant and thoughtful flower bed requires taste and some effort, but the beauty of the resulting composition is worth it.

Vertical flower beds

Vertical gardening is a popular type of urban space design that can be adapted for a summer cottage. Who said that flowers should live on earth? They need soil, but soil can be delivered to the height of human growth.

Advantages of vertical flower beds:

• REQUIRES LESS SPACE than traditional flower beds;
• MAKE THE LAND ORIGINAL due to the non-standard solution.

Although flowering plants are most often used for vertical beds, ornamental vegetables, herbs or herbs look no less attractive - and even more unusual. An interesting option for vertical flower beds is climbing fruit-bearing plants.

Classic forms of vertical beds:

• pyramid- plants are planted in a multi-tiered container;
• flower tower- similar to a pyramid, but the diameter of the "tiers" does not decrease.

Rabatka

Rabat - flower stripes, usually located along paths, fences, or around lawns... Landing width - from half a meter. When plants bloom in such a flower bed, the earth is covered with a solid bright carpet.

Types of discounts:

• unilateral(usually located along the house or fence line);
• bilateral(more often they are designed in the middle of the alley).

Rabat plants can be very different. The basic principle of choosing plants for a rabatka is that they should be low, bright, and match in color with each other.

Mixborder

This is a flower garden where herbs, small shrubs and even small trees are organically combined. It is quite difficult to care for him, because each of the plants requires special conditions. Weeding can add to the problem too - a dense planting is a hallmark of the mixborder. This type of flower bed is often found in landscape-style gardens where the plants are positioned to give the impression of a "random" appearance on the site.

Mixborder features:

• free lines and shapes of flower beds
• tall plants - in the background (if there is only one vantage point) or in the center (if the flower garden can be viewed from several sides)
• contrasting color combinations look spectacular, or vice versa - different types of plants in the same range.

Suburban area design project depending on the area

The style and fullness of the summer cottage directly depends on how many acres are at your disposal. Do not try to embody everything at once if you have only 6 acres of land. The pool may not fit in the garden, but small flower beds and paths will be in perfect condition.

What to consider when planning:

• Terrain and natural relief.
• Plot shape... The usual "cut" of the earth can be square, but there are both L-shaped and triangular sections. These features can be used and played around in design.
• Soil type... It depends on how the plants will feel comfortable in your garden.
• Location relative to the cardinal points... This is important both for planting trees and for thinking over garden lighting schemes.

Plot 6 ares

For small areas, the same geometric style that was so often found in Soviet gardens is best suited. It allows you to use the available space as efficiently as possible. You can add originality using non-standard moves (for example, vertical gardening).

NOTE! The house should not cast a shadow on light-loving plants.

Garden trees, planted in a row on the north side, will not only help organize the space, but will also "shelter" the house from cold winds. In the northern part there are technical buildings and a greenhouse.

If you are not hiding something too important, it is better to abandon the high fence. In a small area, it will only increase the feeling of tightness. Garden paths with smooth curves (not straight) will also help to give "space".

Plot 10 ares

The basic rules for the design of the site do not depend on the area. The trees and the shed are still in the north. But you have much more room for imagination when designing the southern part. On a plot of 10 acres, it is already possible to equip a gazebo, sow a lawn and even build a bathhouse or sauna (planted with climbing plants).

On a plot of this size, you can equip a Japanese garden (you will have to tinker with installing a gazebo and creating an artificial stream) or a "wilderness corner", which will be filled not by garden, but by forest trees. In this case, it is important to plant not only tall plants, but also undergrowth - grasses and shrubs that do not require a lot of light (chamomile, bells and fern are what you need).

Plot 12 ares

On such an area, not only residential buildings, but also a small pond with a waterfall will fit well. The soil, extracted when equipping the reservoir, easily turns into a base for an alpine slide or an independent element of landscape design.

From the central path to the house, narrower paths can run up, leading to secluded corners of the garden, to a gazebo or a stream.

12 acres make it possible for children to allocate their own space on the site and equip a play area with soft grass, where there are no sharp corners, thorny plants or tall trees.

How to do landscaping on your own

For competently arranging the site with your own hands without involving a designer, you will need skills:

• agronomist
• builder and surveyor
• and, of course, an artist

You should start by studying the features of the shape and location of your site, drawing on the plan of all existing buildings and marking functional areas. Next, armed with a garden tree and plant guide or a seed store catalog, choose the species that suit you aesthetically — and for your site.