grasses

Epimediums with a Twist

May 2, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 5 Comments Tags: combinations, conifers, deciduous trees, design, foliage, grasses, groundcover, perennials, shrubs, spring, trees

Golden yellow grasses (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’) and variegated iris (Iris x robusta ‘Gerald Derby’) enhance the spring interest

I’m always looking for new ways to pair old favorites. I typically combine the heart shaped leaves of Bishop’s hat (Epimedium sp.) with lacy ferns and bold hostas for example. But a recent visit to the inspiring garden of Mitch Evans in Kirkland, WA showed me all sorts of exciting new possibilities to get me out of my design rut!

Play to ephemeral color

Enjoy the moment

Epimedium grandiflorum ’Lilafee’ has got the most beautiful purple-flushed foliage with lilac-purple flowers held daintily like dancing stars. Placing in front of Gerald Derby iris (Iris x robusta ‘Gerald Derby’) highlights the exciting purple flush of the iris foliage, most clearly visible in spring. Although both the flowers and iris foliage color are short term effects this inspired pairing shows the importance of planning for such special moments.

Consider shade loving conifers

An unexpected combination with a conifer in part shade

Who would have thought of putting a conifer and Epimedium together? My mind immediately says its not possible since generally conifers need sun and Epimedium prefers shade. This is where knowing your plants comes in – and clearly Mitch does. The golden ‘Tom Thumb’ spruce (Picea orientalis ‘Tom Thumb’) will scorch in full sun and prefers dappled light making it a perfect companion to Epimedium x Amber Queen . I love the way the sunset colored flowers dance overhead like miniature Turk’s cap lilies almost teasing the conifer. After all aren’t Epimedium usually considered groundcovers yet here it is lauding it over its cowering partner!

Smoky purple hellebores look even better with a hazy backdrop of Epimedium x Frohnleiten

Frohnleiten

Color echo and contrast

This pine-hellebore-Epimedum trio made me smile. The sunny yellow flowers of Epimedium x Frohnleiten, one of my personal favorites, always brightens a spring day. The dark, sultry flowers of the hellebore echo the deeper tones of the Epimedium foliage while the pine casts enough shade for both to thrive, adding a fresh green to the color palette as well as a softer texture.

Your challenge question!

So what would you combine this ruby leafed beauty (an Epimedium hybrid) with?

A combination worth getting down on your hands and knees for!

What about a finely textured red leafed maple and buttery-yellow primroses?

Wherever I looked in Mitch’s garden there were carefully painted vignettes; special garden moments waiting to be discovered.

I for one will be referring to these images time and again when I need a dose of fresh design inspiration.

Ready to go shopping?

My sincere thanks to Mitch for letting me ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ in his garden

The Grass with Multiple Personalities

Apr 7, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 10 Comments Tags: cacti, combinations, design, grasses, path, perennials

A beauty or a beast? A star or a supporter? You decide.

Considered invasive in many parts of the country Mexican feather grass (Stipa tenuissima syn. Nasella tenuissima) is merely ‘friendly’ in Seattle area gardens. Certainly it self seeds, but it does so politely creating serendipitous plant partnerships that I wish I could claim as my design!

I consider it an invaluable asset to my own garden as it fills many roles.

Four season interest.

Being evergreen this offers winter interest, when many of my other favorite grasses have tucked themselves under a blanket of compost. Whether planted as a drift with other grasses or as a simple monoculture, there is no denying that this wispy grass adds softness to the stark landscape during the colder months of the year.

Oscar worthy as supporting actor

Sometimes bolder plant forms need an ethereal background to showcase their strength. I love the way Mexican feather grass offers a hazy curtain behind my ‘Ascot Rainbow’ spurge (Euphorbia). It keeps the focus on the star with its gauzy texture allowing light to filter through.

Nominee for best actor

With so many great plants in this border (right and at top of post) how can a humble grass be taken seriously as a lead player? By virtue of it being at the very front where it creates a picture frame which in itself is a work of art. Just look how beautifully it sets the scene on this early spring day, enhancing the warm tones of the emerging spirea foliage foliage while leading the eye to the cinnamon colored peeling bark of a young paperbark maple (Acer griseum) in the middle ground and drifts of daffodils beyond.

Perfect for pathways

Grasses are wonderful for edging pathways, delicately brushing bare ankles and toes as though walking through a meadow. None are gentler than this grass and its billowing form blurs the boundary between garden border and flagstone pathway with ease.

Wildlife refuge

Tucked away behind the waving strands of grass, a flock of birds jumped and jived around this little fountain for over half an hour! Safe from view (mostly!), they played their game unhindered. I am sure the seeds would be of interest later in the year also.

Extreme contrasts

Want the ultimate plant to contrast with the grass texture and form? What about this prickly pear? You can’t get much more extreme than this!

Cultural information

USDA hardiness; 6-10

Size; 2′ tall and wide as a loose fountain

Light; full sun or light shade

Water; average to dry.

So what is this grass to you? The ultimate invasive thug to be avoided at all costs? If so I’d love to know what you have found as a great substitute?

Or has this chameleon found a spot in your garden?

Friend or foe? You decide.

For another great design using this grass enjoy this combination featured in my new book Fine Foliage

Join in the Foliage Fest! (& giveaway)

Mar 11, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 10 Comments Tags: annuals, books, combinations, conifers, container design, deciduous trees, design, foliage, grasses, Monrovia, perennials, shrubs, trees, water gardens

The past couple of weeks have been a true whirlwind since my book FINE FOLIAGE, co-authored with Christina Salwitz was launched at the 2013 Northwest Flower and Garden Show, Seattle.

My first talk at the show – a demonstration style seminar called ‘Spotlight on Foliage’ was standing room only and by the end of that afternoon the University Bookstore had sold out of our book. Thankfully Christina and I had ordered plenty for ourselves so were able to loan them enough to get them through the rest of the show. Tough problem to have, right?!

Since then the books have been selling nationwide (and thanks to my Mum also in England) with great reviews on both sides of The Pond! Both Christina and I have received lovely emails from total strangers who have purchased Fine Foliage and wanted to say how much they are enjoying it and to thank us for the inspiration we have given them.

So what’s so special about it? Here’s what others are saying;

“Fine Foliage is a visual treat that will inspire you with dazzling combinations for containers and gardens. Karen Chapman and Christina Salwitz explain why each combination works – bringing artistic design within easy reach of all gardeners. A great user-friendly resource.”

–Debra Prinzing, author of The 50 Mile Bouquet and Slow Flowers

Garden lovers, you now have the secret for creating the landscapes of your dreams – the ones you see in magazines and wonder “how do those designers DO THAT?”. Christina Salwitz and Karen Chapman show you how to look beyond the flowers and introduce you to the real stars of the horticultural world – LEAVES! Foliage is more than that green stuff around the flowers, it is what divides a good garden from an incredible one, and now you have a guide for how to use its power!

-Ivette Soler, Garden designer and author of “The Edible Front Yard“

“The photos in this book are both breathtaking and inspiring…” Barb S., Seattle

“I highly recommend this book for all gardeners and garden lovers…” Suzanne K., Redmond

Read our Amazon reviews

As winter transitions to spring we seem to naturally gravitate to the local nurseries and garden centers, filling our carts with all that is fragrant and flowery. Yet a few weeks from now those impulse buys won’t look quite so impressive if you haven’t paid careful attention to using foliage as the backbone of your combinations.

The solution? Take a copy of Fine Foliage to the nursery with you – it will fit nicely into your purse (UK translation = handbag). Being a high quality hardback it will withstand the rigors of many such trips! Use it as a springboard for new ideas, ask the nursery staff to help you find your favorites or use it as a reference against which to test those flowers you are drawn to!

For example the gorgeous purple and deep red pasque flowers (Pulsatilla sp.) that are in bloom right now would look so pretty with a tricolor sage. Or maybe add a froth of lemon thyme to those dwarf daffodils? Back that up with some blue grasses and a dwarf golden conifer and you have the makings of a great container!

ENTER TO WIN A FREE COPY!

What do I win?
One signed copy of Fine Foliage
Where?
On our blog www.fine-foliage.com
When?
Right now!! Drawing will take place at midnight Saturday March 16th PST and the book mailed out first thing Monday.
What do I do to enter?
Head over to www.fine-foliage.com and follow the link to sign up for our blog. It’s that easy! Everyone that is registered will be entered into a random drawing. The winner will be notified by email within 24 hours and the winners name will also be posted on the blog itself.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNER shariwick165@gmail.com! You have seen sent an email – please let us have your mailing address and Fine Foliage will be on its way!

Didn’t win? Never mind;

Signed copies can be ordered here using credit card or PayPal

Also available at bookstores, nurseries and online.

Share the love of gardening with your friends and family. Fine Foliage would make a beautiful gift for any occasion; new home, birthday, anniversary….and Mother’s Day is just around the corner on May 12th.

Both Christina and I are also available to give presentations at your garden clubs, nurseries or other event to celebrate Fine Foliage . You will find us listed on the Great Garden Speakers website; read reviews of our previous talks and get more details of what we offer.

Do tell me which is your favorite combination from the book and share your own ideas for great foliage.

Denver Botanic Gardens – a winter surprise

Jan 20, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 4 Comments Tags: cacti, conifers, drought tolerant, fountains, grasses, ice, water gardens, winter

I had the opportunity to visit the Denver Botanic Gardens last week. As I pulled on thermals, several layers of fleece and my thickest socks I began to doubt my sanity! Temperatures were well below zero and I was the only person outside; other visitors were safely ensconced in the tropical steaminess of the orchid house or sipping hot coffee in the café. I wasn’t even too sure what to expect. I mean who has a garden that looks good in January? Certainly in our home gardens we can usually point proudly to a few berried bushes, interesting bark plus maybe a grass or two but the expectation is much greater for a large public garden.

Yet I was not disappointed.

My first stop was the Monet pool. Studded with dozens of water lilies in summer I had no idea what to expect in these arctic temperatures. The lake was iced cover disguised with a soft layer of snow yet the fountains were breathtaking. As the water continued to bubble up it had formed rippling ice sculptures, each like a miniature glacier, especially with their surreal mint julep glow.

Japanese gardens are known for their restraint and year round beauty. Expertly pruned Japanese maples revealed their intricate branching structure now freed of their delicate foliage. These combined with assorted conifers, again lovingly pruned into open cloud formations and large granite boulders give the impression that this garden would look just as full in high summer as it did that day. Wooden bridges traversed the frozen streams while stone statuary adorned the lakeside. Presiding over it all was an enormous birch tree whose pristine white bark reflected the snow in this monochromatic winter garden.

Perhaps though I was most entranced by the undulating layers of grasses I found throughout the gardens. Crushed gravel pathways were lined by massed plantings of Mexican feather grass (Stipa tenuissima), with color interest added by russet sedges (Carex species). Their billowing shapes softened the low stone walls and added a sense of intimacy, since it was not possible to see beyond them except for tantalizing glimpses. (See top photo)

Giant silver grass (Miscanthus) towered overhead, the bleached foliage rustling dramatically in the slightest breeze. Ice crystals added diamond like sparkle to their feathery plumes. Standing alone, backed by a wall or juxtaposed with the bare, twisted branches of sumac (Rhus ) these were the most dramatic elements of the winter garden to my eyes and were worth my frozen fingers as I moved the tripod yet again trying to capture the perfect shot.

Grasses also played a central role in smaller vignettes and I was particularly struck by a cactus seemingly corralled by Mexican feather grass in one of the drought tolerant gardens. A friend called this combination ‘Ambush’ which perfectly describes how these soft grasses have surrounded the wicked spiny paddles of the prickly pear. No escape!

Was it worth the visit? Absolutely. I came away inspired to continue to develop my own winter vignettes and also to take the time to walk around my garden even on cold days. Certainly I look forward to spring but there is so much to appreciate at this time of year also.

Have you designed for winter?

The Winter Garden – a berry bounty

Nov 27, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 6 Comments Tags: berries, birds, container design, design, foliage, grasses, perennials, shrubs, wildlife, winter

Big fat clusters of berries adorn the branches of Parney cotoneaster - a favorite February treat for robins

A winter garden doesn’t just ‘happen’, it takes planning. Most of us visit nurseries earlier in the year when we are seduced into buying ephemeral spring beauties, colorful summer perennials and fall foliage. It takes serious restraint to look beyond those and seek plants that offer great bark, interesting silhouettes, winter flowers and bright berries.

As I strolled around our garden recently on a bright but chilly day I was pleasantly surprised to discover I had in fact put into practice what I encourage others to do! In every part of the garden from the woodland to wilder open spaces there were interesting vignettes with clusters of juicy berries adding seasonal decoration.

Come and walk around the garden with me and I’ll show you a few which are adding jewel like color to our winter garden.

Parney cotoneaster can become a large shrub - give it room to spread

Parney cotoneaster (Cotoneaster lacteus) is a fabulous evergreen shrub for full sun or partial shade. (It will need partial shade in hotter climates). Its long arching branches are dripping with clusters of vivid red fruit- although they would be a little more heavily laden if the deer hadn’t nibbled some of the spring flowers… Come February they will attract flocks of robins to feast on the bounty. The foliage itself is dark green with felted, silvery undersides which catches the light when branches are brushed by a breeze. Give this room to spread to 10’ tall and 8’ wide to enjoy its full beauty although it can be pruned to keep smaller. Zones 6-10b

A PNW native, red chokeberry makes a dazzling fall and winter display with vibrant foliage and red berries

Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia). When we purchased this property in late October 2009 this 6’ tall native shrub was displaying its fiery crimson foliage, almost hiding the red berries. It is planted in partial shade where it is happily spreading by suckers to form a thicket arching over the stream. At this time of year when seen from the house it is framed by an archway of golden foliage from the pear trees. Chokeberry gets its name from the observation that birds avoid this bitter fruit, which suits me fine as I get to enjoy the winter color! Plant it in constantly moist or wet soil in sun or partial shade where it has room to spread, although it is not difficult to remove unwanted canes. It does have somewhat of an unkempt habit so I would recommend this as a background shrub or in a transitional space between the garden and wilder lands beyond – but be sure to site it where you can see it during the winter.

'Eichholz' cotoneaster has stiff woody stems and evergreen foliage - masses of berries are a bonus

Eichholz cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri ‘Eichholz’). Our stream is fed by three seasonal water sources – a natural aquifer which bubbles up from the stream bed, a neighboring seasonal pond and a pipe which drains water from an area of our garden. This pipe is at the bottom of a 4’ deep French drain so that as much water as possible percolates down and leaches into the surrounding soil – what reaches the pipe is in excess of that saturation point. I needed something to hide the pipe at the head of the stream and chose this evergreen shrub whose stiff woody branches will spread laterally to form an 8’ wide weed suppressing groundcover. At this time of year it is a mass of scarlet berries which add another layer of interest. This likes moisture retentive but well-drained soil in full sun and is hardy in zones 5-8

Chartreuse foliage of this snowberry is eye catching from spring to late fall and makes a great contrast to the hot pink berries

I can never resist something new especially if it has fabulous foliage, which is why ‘Blade of Sun’ snowberry (Symphoricarpos chenaultii ‘Blade of Sun’) leapt into my arms on a summer visit to a nursery! Low spreading branches of chartreuse foliage have been a wonderful addition to our woodland garden and it has been remarkably tolerant of abuse. Although the stream bank where I planted it does not completely dry out, I only watered it two or three times between July and October and it has been fine. It promises to have lots of pink/purple berries in winter and although there are only a scattered few this year I’m optimistic that next year will be more abundant. This is a deciduous shrub yet the foliage is still persisting even after several frosts. It prefers dappled shade where it will grow to 12-18” tall and 2’ wide. Zones 4-9

As leaves fall from barberries the twiggy structure and elongated berries are revealed

There are several other berry bearing perennials and shrubs in our garden – ‘Red Beauty’ holly (Ilex x ‘Rutzan’), honeysuckle, Pernettya (Pernettya mucronata), barberries (Berberis cv), wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’), and ‘Coral Beauty ‘ cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri) – enough for both the wildlife and ourselves to enjoy. The latter three are fabulous additions to container gardens also.

Others shrubs you might enjoy;

Beautyberry (Callicarpa sp) – purple

Snowberry (Symphoricarpos sp.) – white or pink

Other hollies (Ilex sp) – red, orange or yellow

Firethorn (Pyracantha sp.) – red, orange or yellow

Viburnum species – red, black or blue

Heavenly bamboo (Nandina domestica)

12 Months Later

Aug 19, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 14 Comments Tags: combinations, deer, design, drought tolerant, foliage, fragrance, grasses, perennials, shrubs, trees

A tapestry of colors and textures - August 2012

Is it really only that long?

I suspect like many gardeners I’m better at writing a To Do list than celebrating the Ta Da moments. I’m so busy worrying about the deer munching on the end of an elderberry branch (and yes they do eat elderberries), that I forget to look around and take in the big picture. Fact is we’ve come a long way.

Who says deer don't eat elderberries - mine even eat RICIN!!

The real beginning was three years ago; October 30th 2009 to be exact, when we moved to this modest one storey house sitting on 5 flat acres. I could write a book on the various adventures we’ve had as we’ve renovated the house. Dead mice in the walls, frogs croaking under the house, termite eaten woodwork and a vole who suddenly appeared in the bathroom with me, arriving by way of the heating vent in the floor. Eek!

August 2011 - weeds were gone and the cabin moved but that was about it

But this is a garden blog. You’ve heard me say before that the best feature in the landscape was a huge dead tree. That’s because the house was being swallowed by Bishop’s weed, as was the front garden . There was a nice long border to one side of the property but it was only 3′ deep before dissolving into cottonwoods, reed canary grass and an interesting blend of beer cans and chunks of concrete.

Besides that the land was a seasonally mosquito ridden swamp. I even tried spraying most of the 5 acres with garlic the first summer …, let’s just say that wasn’t my most shining moment. Still plenty of mosquitoes, no witches and my son threatening to leave home since I’d thoughtfully sprayed around his window. Oops

So how and where was I going to create my dream gardens?

Island border

Around the dead tree. Except that the land around it was a less than attractive tapestry of blackberries and weeds. It was also a swamp from November through the end of June.

I’ve told part of this story before. You can read how we addressed the drainage, moved the cabin and built the arbor by following the links. 12 months ago we had just unloaded 100 yards of topsoil and planted our first tree.

Here it is today.

August 2012. The cabin is now nestled into the (young) landscape

Paths are laid, a bench installed, boulders moved (with great difficulty) from behind the barn, and layers of wonderful color.

A simple wooden bench will soon be shaded by the golden locust tree and backed by 'Karl Foerster' grasses. If the deer leave the elderberry alone that will also be part of the backdrop.

Some things thriving, others not so much as we discovered a few spots around the perimeter became catchment areas for winter rains.

And there’s still a lot of bare soil – not the Karen style! However we have included plenty of four season interest and used drought tolerant, (relatively) deer resistant plants.

Warm sunset shades predominate. This golden conifer shines like a beacon all year

I’ve also had great fun playing with color combinations.

Vibrant orange Crocosmia around the paperbark maple accents the trees rich mahogany peeling bark yet doesn't obscure it in winter

Front garden

August 2011 - the front dust bowl...

12 months ago this was barren. Every single tree, shrub, perennial and bulb had been removed. Those which were riddled with Bishop’s weed were disposed of. Others were washed to bare roots then quarantined in a corner of the vegetable garden until I was sure they were clean. We had installed a new path and patio at this point but sat sipping our wine surrounded by….nothing.

August 2012. Today it is a medley of soft, airy textures

Now it’s a tranquil space. Soothing shades of blue, white and silver predominate. The air is fragrant with daphne, lavender and thyme. Sounds of bees mingle with those of hummingbirds and small birds splashing in the fountain.

The white bark of the birch tree is emphasized by the haze of white flowers

The dancing white flowers of ‘whirling butterflies’ (Gaura sp.) sway gently in the slightest breeze forming fleeting partnerships with silver wormwood (Artemesia) and periwinkle blue ‘Rozanne’ geranium.

Not that it’s perfect. Some lavender plants died. Voles ate some plants and cut worms others.

I thought I'd be 'safe' with sedums - obviously not!

Then there are the sedums which have either been eaten by very tall rabbits or our deer – large hoof prints would suggest the latter.

Still despite those little hiccups and a few remaining bare patches we are finally proud to share the progress with friends. It looks like a well-loved home nestled into a thoughtfully designed landscape. There’s more to do but that’s OK. For now we can at least say…Ta Da!

Beachscaping

Aug 12, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 10 Comments Tags: design, drought tolerant, foliage, grasses, Nature, shrubs

Dungeness State Park, WA - one of our favorite places to relax

There’s something about being at the ocean. Stress seems to get swept away on the sea breeze, and time moves at a slower pace allowing us to savor that novel we’ve been meaning to read. Suddenly ‘sitting’ seems like an activity rather than a luxury and nothing seems quite as important as it did before.

We‘re not all fortunate enough to enjoy waterfront property, but even if we’re landlocked there are ways to capture that carefree ‘beach style’ in our garden.

I’m not suggesting having a truck load of sand dumped at your home to create buggy-worthy dunes, nor adding a proliferation of nautical themed accessories – fishing lure styled mail boxes or geranium filled row boats in the flower beds. (If you like that stuff, go for it! Not my style though).

Take your cue from Nature itself. It doesn’t need dressing up. It simply is.

Pathways

This path was created by filling a 6" deep channel with sand - how easy is that? Photo credit; Bruce Botnick, Sunset magazine

I love those beaches where you approach along a sandy trail, turn the final corner and suddenly come across an expansive view to take your breath away. Recreate that path with crushed rock – decomposed granite is a favorite, or a simple wooden boardwalk. If your pathway leads through a heavily planted area a simple mulch make look right. Create a sense of anticipation and be sure to sweep the path around a curve or a large shrub.

Plant palette

Nature inspired design at its best. A simple winding pathway through stands of grasses and low growing perennials. Design and photo credit; Lankford Associates, WA

Think what grows naturally in those windswept locations with fast draining soil – that will give you some ideas as to what will look ‘right’. Grasses are an easy choice and the Mexican feather grass (Stipa tenuissima) is the perfect height and form to give that beach feel at just 18” tall and wide. It thrives in full sun and doesn’t need rich soil. It also self-seeds freely which helps to avoid looking overly ‘designed’. For something taller the stiffly upright ‘Karl Foerster’ feather reed grass (Calamagrostis acutiflora) is sturdy enough to withstand strong winds yet still moves nicely in the breeze, whispering like the marram grass on the dunes.

To add flowers into this mix consider the low growing forms of pinks (Dianthus) e.g. ‘Firewitch’, thrift (Armeria sp.) and fleabane (Erigeron sp.). These look perfect in a beachscape. Taller perennials could include Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) or catmint (Nepeta sp.). Sculptural forms of pine can also look wonderful and are native to many coastal regions.

If your garden is shadier don’t despair. Many beaches are reached after first walking through a shaded forest, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. Native flowering shrubs such as wild roses and oceanspray (Holodiscus discolor) lend height and sedges (Carex sp.) can substitute for the sun loving grasses.

No garden? No problem. Capture the essence of coastal garden design with simple planters. Photo and design credit; Lankford Asssociates, WA

If your soil seems unsuitable you can always use containers to create your beach garden. Use wide, low planters in neutral colors to keep the focus on the plants. Adding extra perlite to the mix and/or using a potting medium which is low in organic content will enable you to grow those plants which prefer fast draining, low fertility soils.

Boulders, rocks and pebbles

A few well-placed boulders can really help set the scene, especially if plants are nestled up to them. Arrange river rocks and small stones around the boulders in such a fashion as to suggest erosion, with the smallest pebbles spilling over onto the patio to achieve a more natural look.

Destination

The grassy boardwalk leading to the waters edge invites guests to explore at a leisurely pace. Well placed boulders provide additional seating for enjoying the firepit

So you’ve walked a short trail past boulders and plants – don’t let the destination be an anti-climax! An open vista is of course ideal but not always possible, so focus on keeping the destination simple. Remember that Nature is our inspiration and the beach is not a kaleidoscope of brightly colored flowers. Keep the sitting area uncluttered with minimal planting consisting of just one or two species. Add seating – weathered Adirondack chairs look perfect or simple canvas deck chairs. Perhaps you have room for a fire pit to toast marshmallows as the stars come out?

Now sit back, close your eyes and listen for the rhythmic whoosh of the waves as your cares are washed away.

Getting Black and Blue – without injury!

Jul 1, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 12 Comments Tags: annuals, combinations, deer, design, foliage, grasses, perennials, shrubs

Scabious 'Mariposa violet' found a new home in front of a black bugbane. 'Butterfly blue' would be even more stunning.

I found myself wandering around the garden yesterday with a wheelbarrow full plants in need of a new home – a lonely blue star juniper, a beautiful blue scabious just starting to bloom and several sections of a blue hosta. The question was, where should I put them? Sound familiar?

I spend a lot of my time helping homeowners who have done too much plunking over the years. You know – plunk it here, plunk it there. There’s a hole – plunk.

My philosophy is simple – have a reason for putting plant A with plant B (and “because there was a space” does NOT count as a reason!)

Blue is an easy color to blend into the garden, looking as much at home with delicate pastels as with jewel tones. I especially like to see it being used to break up what can easily become a monotonous purple and chartreuse color scheme. Add a little blue in there and suddenly it seems fresh.

I wanted something different and I found it; BLACK and blue. I’ll spare you the obvious puns about bruises.

One of those gardening 'Aha' moments when I noticed what a great pair black and blue made

I first noticed how well black and blue went together when I planted blue bellflowers (Campanula persicifolia) in front of a stand of inky black bugbane (Cimifuga racemosa ‘Hillside black beauty). The bellflower brought out the blue tones within the black foliage while the flower color seemed more vibrant when seen against its dark companion. It became one of those gardening ‘Aha’ moments.

So the scabious and hostas got tucked in next to a mature group of bugbane and my blue star juniper is going to front a stand of ‘Passionate’ cape fuchsias (Phygelius recta) which has remarkable black stems and dark greeny-black foliage topped by orange fuchsia-like flowers which already have us on the hummingbird radar for miles around!

As with any plant combination, start with great foliage and you’re half way there.

Ideas for shady sites.

Clockwise; 'Blackie' sweet potato vine, hosta, black mondo grass and 'Blue shadow' fothergilla

Include some of these in containers for close-up appreciation; ‘Midnight blue’ wishbone flower (Torenia sp.) is a favorite of mine and looks wonderful mingling with black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’).

Clockwise; woodland phlox , 'Obsidian' coral bells, 'Blue star' columbine and 'Black magic' coleus

Other shade loving black and blue plants include hydrangeas, the tropical looking elephant ears (Colocasia esculenta) and the wonderful spring bulbs such as bluebells, Camassia and anemone blanda

Ideas for sunny sites

Clockwise; black bamboo, delphinium, Aeonium 'Zwartkopf', 'Sapphire blue' sea holly

Foliage and flowers are obvious options but consider planting a stand of black bamboo in a large blue container.

Clockwise; 'Sisikiyou' blue fescue, pansy. 'Rozanne' geranium and 'Spilled wine' weigela

There are many other black and blue options for sun including;

The shrub ‘Black lace’ elderberry (Sambucus racemosa), annual blue fanflower (Scaevola sp.) and perennial blue speedwells (Veronica sp.)

Solo performers

'Black and blue' sage brings an intense color punch to sunny gardens. Imagine this rising from a carpet of black mondo grass

Then there are a couple of plants who have it all in one tidy package. ‘Black and blue’ sage is an annual in my area but worth including for all the hummingbirds it attracts.

‘Caradonna’ sage is a more reliable perennial and carries rich blue flowers along the length of its tough black stems. It blooms throughout the summer unlike some other varieties. All sages are deer resistant – a bonus for my garden. Still talking to the exploding rabbit population about their diet…

'Black scallop' bugleweed has wonderful crinkled black leaves and deep blue spring flowers - a favorite evergreen perennial for damp shade

There are also several varieties of bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) which are almost black such as ‘Black scallop’ and ’Metallica’. In spring the foliage is studded with short fat spikes of blue flowers. Bugleweed loves moist conditions in partial shade. I am using it as a groundcover on my stream banks in the hope of suppressing weeds but it’s also a popular addition in shade containers.

What’s your favorite black and blue?

Containers – Sassy or Classy?

Jun 24, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 8 Comments Tags: annuals, combinations, container design, deciduous trees, design, foliage, grasses, perennials, shrubs

The peachy toned Heucherella 'Sweet tea' becomes more playful when combined with 'Orange rocket' barberry

When it comes to color schemes for container gardens the only limitation is your imagination. To avoid the mad professor look it does help to have a plan before you hit the nurseries, however. In my last post we looked at ‘happy’ colors and a romantic theme. Here are another couple of options my clients and I love.

Make it sassy!

On its own this 'Million kisses - Elegance' begonia could suggest a pastel scheme. Add in deeper shades with 'Spitfire' coleus, rust colored 'kangaroo paws' and 'Copper spoons' kalanchoa and it's gone from subtle to sassy!

Where does happy end and sassy begin? Perhaps sassy could be described as having something of a ‘naughty but nice’ attitude! Orange is a real hot little number this year with plenty of sassiness. It can pretend to be a soft peach then throw on some richer shades to become quite the dazzler. Gentle starting points might be apricot begonias or soft, caramel coral bells (Heuchera) but when partnered with richer ruby shades their personality changes!

Softer shades of apricot dahlias are already providing drama with their dark foliage. When combined with the jewel toned mirror plant they take on a whole new look

Several varieties of mirror plant (Coprosma ) are perfect for adding a little naughtiness. With its reflective surface and jewel like foliage this aptly named tender shrub can quickly enliven quieter partners. The cultivar ‘Tequila sunrise’ emerges emerald green with a gold margin, gradually becoming marbled with brilliant orange and gold hues. In mild areas it lasts through winter and the leaf color intensifies to brilliant orange and red. ‘Roy’s red’ is a deeper bronze at first but a deep purple-red later in the season . Either one will transform the quieter shades of orange to party goers.

There are many shades of coleus to choose from - 'Spitfire' is one of my favorites this year and revels in sun

Orange flowers and foliage are really popular again this year so look for annuals such as coleus, lantana, million bells (Calibrachoa), and African daisies (Osteospermum). Perennials, shrubs and grasses include cultivars of coral bells (Heuchera), heathers with colorful foliage (e.g. Calluna v. ‘Winter chocolate’), barberries (Berberis) and sedges (e. g. orange hair sedge (Carex testacea)).

Keep it Classy

Truly elegant - chartreuse and black foliage with just a hint of white from Impatiens

For something completely different consider the ‘little black dress’ look- chic, modern and elegant. Begin with a curvaceous black container perhaps, adding shades of green with white accents.

If you prefer a more contemporary vibe select a container with clean lines and keep planting to a minimum so the focus is crisp. The classy look is about form not flowers so foliage is the key component. Bright chartreuse looks fabulous in a black container and there are plenty of options from the annual ‘Marguerite’ sweet potato vine (Ipomoea) and assorted coleus to perennial coral bells (Heuchera) such as key lime pie to the stunning golden full moon maple (Acer shirasawanum ‘Aureum’).

It's all about the leaves - black, silver and bright green sets the color theme

If fragrance is important to you look no further than citrus scented ‘Goldcrest’ Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa ‘Wilma Goldcrest’). Repeat the container color with black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’); great in sun or shade, and you’re off to a good start.

Stylish jewelry completes any outfit so what about adding a little silver – wormwood (Artemisia), licorice plant (Helichrysum) and silver bush (Convolvulus cneorum) would all bring a little sparkle. Or add few metallic glass pebbles to dress things up.

A little silver or other metallic 'jewelry' can give that final flourish

Other black foliage options include ‘Blackie’ sweet potato vine (Ipomoea) ‘Black lace’ elderberry (Sambucus nigra) , ‘Hillside black beauty’ bugbane (Cimifuga simplex), and ‘Obsidian’ coral bells (Heuchera).

A little planning before your nursery visit will help you pull together a great design rather than a jumble of plants. What look are you going for this year?

A special thank you to my friend and co-author Christina Salwitz for sharing her talent and photographs

Sunset Inspiration

May 6, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 10 Comments Tags: combinations, deciduous trees, design, foliage, grasses, perennials, shrubs, spring, trees

I’ll often ask clients what their color preferences are for container garden plantings or as a palette for a new garden border. It can often be hard for them to articulate, however, and ends up being a series of Q & A – reds? Yes. Oranges? Not sure. Blues? Maybe. I find that I need to offer a new vocabulary and as always Nature provides.

I was looking for ideas for a color scheme for an area of my own garden. I had the warm cedar siding of the little guest cabin which formed a pleasing association with the peeling cinnamon colored bark of the paper bark maple (Acer griseum). On a whim (and because I had them!), I also added orange crocosmia around the tree at which point I began to see a theme emerging of warm, somewhat mellow tones.

The emerging purple cones on this Skylands spruce offers some serious eye candy!

Next I added a golden ‘Skylands’ oriental spruce (Picea orientalis ‘Skylands’), rich yellow ‘Zagreb’ tickseed (Coreopsis verticillata ‘Zagreb’) and dozens of yellow daffodils. As I planted ‘Crème brulee’ coral bells (Heuchera) in the cabin’s window box and adjacent container I was finally able to put a name to my color scheme; sunset.

Layers of color between the spirea, azalea and dark leafed barberry capture the essence of a glorious sunset.

Using a Nature inspired theme releases me from the frustration of having to decide if I prefer orange or red. It frees me up to select shades from deep burgundy to burnt orange, adding in softer highlights or more vibrant fiery shades as I choose. It’s also proving to be lots of fun as I combined ‘Double play Big Bang’ spirea (Spiraea japonica ‘Tracy’) with a fabulous deciduous mollis azalea (Rhododendron x kosteranum) whose coral flowers perfectly echoed the color of the new growth on the spirea.

Plant late season perennials close to oriental poppies to disguise the fading foliage.

Looking to mid-summer I have mass planted black eyed Susan’s (Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’) thanks to the generosity of friends and intend to add a swathe of blousy red oriental poppies (Papaver orientalis sp.) nearby for an explosion of color later this month. As summer transitions to fall I’ll keep the color story going with the tall switch grass ‘Shenandoah’ (Panicum v. ‘Shenandoah’). This whispering grass may start out olive green but quickly matures to rich burgundy blades which dance in the slightest summer breeze. I still have more plants to add as well as a small fountain using a 2’ tall ceramic brown ‘teapot’ which will be placed by the cabin porch.

Incorporating non-plant material such as containers, pathways or even the cabin is a way to add solidity to an otherwise seasonally changing picture. These elements can anchor the color theme and become a reference point around which other ethereal stars are showcased.

Your interpretation of ‘sunset’ may be different from mine and feature shades of pink, purple and midnight blue. The good news is that it doesn’t matter! This is just a vocabulary to help guide you visually at the nurseries.

The chances are that if your color scheme is inspired by Nature – it will be fabulous. Surely we are simply students of Art seeking to learn and to share?

PS. If you’d like to read about the adventure of moving the cabin into this border you can do so here.

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