The Evolving Beauty of Garden: From Colorful Blooms to Serene Foliage

At first, the flowers were of the greatest interest to me in gardening. I wanted to have everything in terms of colors, and I wanted them to bloom continuously. That’s why I allocated a lot of space to annual flowerbeds.

Indeed, for a couple of months each year, the garden was a riot of colors, but then came the moment when the faded annuals had to be removed, some perennials had to be cut down to the ground, and the empty corners of the garden looked rather sad before the summer was even over.

It took many years to practically experience a variety of plants: how they fare in our climate and specifically on my plot, the duration of their flowering, and their appearance afterward.

It was necessary to select the most resilient and decorative ones. Over time, my desire for continuous floral extravagance waned: I began to appreciate foliage, paying attention to its color, shape, size, texture, duration, and timing of its decorative qualities.

Although I still marvel at the peak of flower activity, the balance between flowers and decorative foliage has significantly shifted for me.

Now, what matters more is not the brightness and abundance of flowers but the duration and timing of their blooming. If the duration isn’t substantial, it should be compensated by the beautiful shape of the shrub, the curtain, the foliage, or the presence of suitable companions.

Today, my garden has become more restrained and tranquil compared to the early years, but it is also more fulfilling, stable, and cohesive—a more “mature” garden.

I am still in search of new and interesting plants to replace those that don’t satisfy me or to enhance certain aspects. However, overall, I am content with the direction in which my garden is evolving. I am pleased with the character it gradually acquires.