Gardening in and of itself is an art form. And the art of fine gardening is just that, an art. Fine gardening may mean many things to many people, but to me fine gardening means more than just a garden. It encompasses all that’s good and graceful in gardening and combines them to make one garden that is the epitome of all your dreams.
My love of gardening does just come from the finished product, but from the hours of love that I spend planning and designing it – from the moment an idea comes to me to the pleasure of seeing it come to fruition. Anyone who steps into view of my garden should gain an appreciation for the art in it, not just the size or shape of the plants. It should be a place that is peaceful and calm, where people can enjoy spending their time.
Therefore, a water feature, ideally one that will make a continuously soothing gurgle, with a small stepping-type of waterfall-cum-pond, placed on lovely slabs of flat rock with a hint of moss growing on it. A nice water lily or lotus to give off a contrasting color, and perhaps a fish or two. A few ferns and leafy rain-forest type plants placed around the pond, and I’m finished with this stage of my fine gardening.
Ideally I would love a big tree to stand in a corner of the garden, with a luscious velvety dark brown trunk that I can just about span with my arms, overflowing with vibrant green leaves spilling onto the ground in heedless abandon. Since I might not always get what I want, I’ll settle instead for a few saplings that will one day fulfill my wish.
Green is the target color, so a luscious lawn surrounds the garden itself.
Lots of varieties of plants, and as many colors, are my favorite so I’d add a meandering pathway through the garden to enjoy them all.
As a finishing touch, there’s a small alcove, hidden from view until you’re in the garden, with a nice view of the entire garden, some shade and a nice hammock or chair to sit and enjoy the results of my work.
In the distance, several large rocks will break up the greenery, surrounded by a few flowers for color.
In the midst of all this natural splendor I’ll walk through the garden, feeling the satisfaction and peace that comes from a job well done.
