Cottage gardens are charming, relaxed, and full of greenery. Unlike formal gardens, which are neat and tidy, cottage gardens have a more laid-back, almost chaotic mix of flowers, herbs, vegetables, trees, and other plants. They’re meant to feel natural and cozy.
If you want to create your own whimsical cottage garden but aren’t sure where to begin, we’ve put together 12 beautiful ideas to help inspire you.
1. Combine Edible and Decorative Plants
Cottage gardens are both beautiful and practical. You can mix in edible plants like vegetables and herbs alongside decorative flowers. Designer Tim Pilgrim does this by planting roses, vegetables, and herbs all in one space, creating a lush and useful garden.
2. Maximize Garden Space
In cottage gardens, the more plants, the better! Libby Webb fills every corner of her backyard with plants of all sizes, shapes, and colors, making the most out of the space available.
3. Add a Greenhouse
Though cottage gardens don’t need much maintenance, you’ll still need a place to tend to your plants. A small greenhouse lets you work in your garden no matter the weather, keeping your space cozy and functional.
4. Build Stone Raised Garden Beds
Gardening blogger Sarah Stiller loves using stone to create raised garden beds. Not only does this look beautiful, but the stones also warm up in the sun, creating a perfect microclimate for plants to thrive.
5. Fence In Your Vegetable Garden
A fence can be both practical and decorative. It can protect your vegetables from animals while adding some personality to your garden.
6. Create a Private Dining Area
A cottage garden can be the perfect spot for enjoying meals outdoors. Set up a private dining area surrounded by flowers, and enjoy a relaxing meal in the beauty of your garden.
7. Design a Paver Walkway
A winding walkway made of pavers is a lovely addition to any cottage garden. Plant lavender, roses, peonies, and other beautiful flowers along the path to make your walk through the garden even more special.
8. Lay a Pea Gravel Path
Pea gravel is affordable and easy to maintain, making it a great choice for creating paths or patios in your cottage garden. It gives your garden a relaxed, homey feel.
9. Install a Garden Fountain
A garden fountain, like the one in Emily Henderson’s design, can add both beauty and tranquility to your cottage garden. The sound of running water creates a peaceful atmosphere.
10. Place a Bird Bath
Invite birds into your garden with a beautiful bird bath. It adds height to your garden and attracts lovely feathered visitors who will enjoy the water.
11. Use Trellises for Climbing Plants
Vertical climbing plants like peas and roses need support to grow. Add trellises to your garden to give these plants something to climb and create a beautiful, elevated look.
12. Build a Multi-Level Garden
To add structure and elegance to your garden, consider creating multiple levels of plants. You can plant flowers, shrubs, and trees at different heights to make your space feel more dynamic and interesting.
FAQs
How do I start a cottage garden?
Start by choosing a mix of plants—both decorative and edible. Use space wisely, and don’t worry about things looking too neat. The charm of a cottage garden is its natural, relaxed feel.
Do cottage gardens require a lot of maintenance?
While they don’t need much upkeep, cottage gardens do require regular care like watering, pruning, and tending to vegetables and flowers. A greenhouse or garden shed can make this easier.
What are some low-maintenance plants for a cottage garden?
Some low-maintenance plants include lavender, daisies, foxgloves, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. These plants thrive with minimal care and add charm to your garden.
Can I have a vegetable garden in a cottage garden?
Yes! Cottage gardens are perfect for mixing vegetables with flowers and herbs. You can create a small vegetable patch within the garden for both beauty and function.
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