- Step 1
Plant Selection
Choose plants that are native to your area for the most “natural” look, but don’t feel that you have to restrict yourself to indigenous vegetation. The typical method is to start with spring-planted seeds or fall planted bulbs or corms (bulb-like plants). Seeds are chosen because of their cost effectiveness while bulbs are chosen for that first burst of color each spring. Perennials cost more than annuals, but in the long run, are more cost effective for their return each summer to bloom and brighten your landscape. - Step 2
Bulbs, Tubers, and Corms
In the grassy area of your landscape, plant a large grouping of crocus. Crocus bloom in early spring, sometimes when snow is still on the ground. Coming in colors of yellow, purple or white, these 3-4 inch tall flowers can bring a smile to the face of anyone living in cold, snowy regions – ah, spring is here! To give that natural look to their growth location, take a handful of the crocus corms and toss them almost parallel to the ground, like you would if trying to skip a stone on water. Some corms will land further out, some close, and some will land side-by-side, and that’s okay. Plant them where they land. An easy way to do that is to use a spade. Thrust the spade into the ground about 5 inches; don’t remove the grass. With the spade in the ground, push the spade handle forward to create a “slit” in the ground into which you can drop the corm. Tap the slit closed with your foot. How easy is that?!
The benefit of growing crocus in this natural state is that you can enjoy the blooms before the grass gets tall enough to need cutting.
You can use a similar technique when planting other bulbs or tubers, only don’t plant them in a grassy area unless it’s an area that not will need mowing (i.e., you can let the grass get tall before cutting) because flowers like tulips and iris bloom in later spring and summer. You don’t want to mow them down before they have a chance to bloom. Again, following the natural them, don’t plant them in a row. Scatter a grouping of them to plant. Daffodils are good spring-blooming flowers. You can scatter and plant the bulbs around the base of a tree, where they can enjoy sunshine before the tree produces leaves. - Step 3
Annuals and Perennials
When planting annuals, whether from potted plant or seed/bare root, to follow the natural theme, you can mix flower types. The bed should have a non-distinct edge. That is, you shouldn’t see a crisp line between the flower bed and the lawn, sidewalk, or whatever surface the bed is next to. You can accomplish a non-distinct edge by planting short, bushy flowers on the edge of the bed whereby the flowers expand out onto the nearby surface. In addition, rather than having a straight line forming the edge of the bed, go with curves. - Step 4
Seeds
Wild flowers are the most popular type of natural flower pattern. What is classified as “wild” is dependent on the area in which you live. From your local nursery or super center, you can purchase pre-packaged wild flower seeds. Wild flowers are the perfect filler for a hillside, along a fence or country lane, and even in pots. - Step 5
Pathways
If you haven’t already built pathways, then take the natural route too, pun intended! Sidewalks too often are a straight line from the curb or driveway to the house’s entry. For a natural walkway, there should be no straight lines. Create a curving walkway with stone, loose or mortared.
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