How it “functions” in the landscape Story and Photos by Susan Jasan There is a famous phrase in design: “Form follows function.” More correctly, “Form ever follows function,” which is often attributed to architect Louis Henry Sullivan (1856-1924). In fact, the concept has been debated for centuries, much as the eternal question, “Which came first …
Using glass mulch in the landscape Story by Margo L. Emery, Ph.D. I first encountered the magical material known as glass mulch at the University of Tennessee Gardens, Crossville. My body froze as my eyes took in a large, neat bed of shiny, multicolored … something. Meanwhile, my brain was clamoring to know what it …
Utilizing footbridges and creeks in the garden Story and Photos by A.J. Heinsz-Bailey Generally speaking, water has never been a problem for Louisiana gardeners. Sometimes, however, what to do with all the water can be a challenge for us. In northern parts of the state, we have hills, and down south, we have lowlands. Working …
Cool patterns and shapes in the garden Story and Photos by Richelle Stafne Intentional garden design with a specific palette of patterns and shapes can not only adds interest, but also can create cohesiveness among plant material. Growing up, I would watch Sesame Street and sing along with the song One of These Things … …
Making use of the latest outdoor lighting technologies Story by Katie Jackson A moonlit garden is enchanting, but sometimes the moon needs a little help shedding light on a garden’s nighttime beauty. That’s when it’s time to turn to technology. One of the most helpful developments in the outdoor lighting realm is the increased availability …
Ten native shrubs and perennial plants to build a beautiful landscape Story and Photos by Yvonne Lelong Bordelon If you’d like to create a beautiful landscape that is also easy to maintain, consider giving native shrubs and perennials a try. Native doesn’t necessarily mean wild and unruly. There are hundreds of showy, hardy, low-maintenance indigenous …
Don’t let your side yard be a bore Story and Photos by Mark K. Stickley-Godinez It’s a forgotten spot, a space we pass through without thought, or where we hide things like trashcans, woodpiles, or composters. And in most of them you truly want to just shut your eyes and run through it as quickly …
Add some pizzazz to your plantings with these choices Story by Helen Newling Lawson Foundation plantings – usually evergreen shrubs – have always had a reputation for being boring. To make matters worse, many of the South’s go-to choices are now also suffering from a host of disease and insect problems. Luckily, there are several …
Converting lawn into usable garden space By J.D. Willoughby Lawns are integral to suburban homescapes, but their origins actually go back to wealthy British or French landowners, depending on which references are used. Lawns provide uniformity, a sense of security, and a well-manicured facade, but there are many other creative ways to landscape. The wealthy …
Planning garden beds for maximum impact and minimum maintenance Story and Photography by Susan Jasan A little planning ahead can maximize your enjoyment and minimize headaches when dealing with your landscape – the maintenance in particular. A simple concept, yes; but most often overlooked. This particularly applies to the layout and design of your planting …
