The garden was a blank slate when we arrived – just lawn and a few neglected shrubs. We dreamed of a romantic cottage garden that would look beautiful but wouldn't require hours of daily maintenance.
Planning the Planting
We focused on perennials that would come back year after year: lavender, roses, foxgloves, and hardy geraniums. Native wildflower mixes fill the gaps and support local pollinators.
Creating Structure
A simple gravel path winds through the garden, with a reclaimed stone bench providing a quiet spot to sit. We added a small herb garden near the kitchen door for convenience.
Year-Round Interest
By choosing plants with different flowering times, there's always something in bloom from spring through autumn. Winter structure comes from evergreen herbs and the climbing rose on the cottage wall.