Landscaping decor

New Trends in the Garden and Flowerbeds

As with everything changing with the New Year, there are even new trends in the garden and flowerbeds.

Bright colors in the flowerbeds
Bright colors in the flowerbeds


We are going back to the basics as in brighter colors in the flowerbeds with easy to grow plants. Many will be planting native plants as annuals and perennials for people not wanting to replant every year.


For the gardens, many newbies are starting with small gardens for the best tasting, healthy fruits, and vegetables. Organic is a big word meaning not using certain insecticides and fertilizers with a chemical component.

Landscape with stone mulch and underground irrigation
Landscape with stone mulch and underground irrigation


For both the flowerbed and garden, the use of drip irrigation to conserve water and save money. Also, using a mulch like straw or even plastic helps to conserve water.

Wildlife garden area with bubbling pond
Great area for butterflies and other wildlife


Planting trees and shrubs is becoming increasingly important in providing homes for wildlife and food. Add a water source like a pond.

Living space outdoors
Living space outdoors


More and more people are adding to their backyard an extension to their living area. Using fencing and patio for grilling and providing privacy from neighbors. Add a stream or fountain for a relaxing sound of moving water. By adding a fire pit or outdoor fireplace extends the time you can be outside.

Monochromatic whites in a container
Monochromatic whites in a container


Container gardening is of course becoming more popular not just for flowers but for vegetables. The color schemes are changing from different colors in containers to more monochromatic blues, oranges, and yellows.

Moon garden
Moon garden

Do not forget to get the kids involved. Moon gardens are trending by planting plants blooming with whites and silver leaf colors. Place a solar light in the bed to make the whites glow at night.


Houseplants are becoming more popular mainly for purifying the air in the house. The old fashion plants are making a comeback like the Boston fern, snake plant, and philodendron.

Growing herbs and flowers in a small area
Growing herbs and flowers in a small area

Herbs for fresh cooking are popular. I see this fad continuing.

A moon globe source of artificial light
A moon globe source of artificial light

Using artificial light is a good way to add more interest to the landscaping. Providing security to keep unwanted persons or animals out.

Christmas

Gingerbread House

From the pictures take a look and see what one is the gingerbread house I made, you can only get better!


The gingerbread house began in Germany in the 1800s going back to the tale of Hansel and Gretel. The witch’s house was built of bread, roofed with cakes, and the windows were transparent sugar. It became a tradition that was handed down thru the generations.


Now the houses can be made from graham crackers, pretzels, and lebkuchen (spiced honey biscuits).

Most are still made from the gingerbread cookie recipe:


1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature

1/2 cup dark brown sugar

1/4 cup light molasses or dark corn syrup

1 tablespoon cinnamon

1 tablespoon ground ginger

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons water

Mix and chill for an hour then cut out the shapes.

Preheat oven to 375 and bake for around 15 minutes.


For assemblage and decoration: Melted white chocolate or Royal Icing, recipe follows:

1 pound (3-3/4 cups) powdered sugar, sifted if lumpy

1 to 2 large egg whites, or substitute 4 teaspoons packaged egg whites and 1/4 cup water

1 teaspoon almond extract, vanilla or lemon juice

Gumdrops, licorice, and peppermint, as desired.

Christmas

Outdoor Farmhouse Christmas Decoration

Simple outdoor farmhouse Christmas decoration that you can use from everyday items is called traditional farmhouse Christmas décor. Using an old sled or vintage crate with some greenery and bulbs will make your front door inviting.

Outdoor Christmas Decoration using an Old Ladder
Outdoor Christmas Decoration using an Old Ladder


An old wooden ladder with homemade garland strewn around it or a garland of juniper boughs with apples hung. So, this year give your “outside” a farmhouse Christmas.