::Informal Design Lesson::Plant in Groups of Three::

Think about planting in threes and in creating natural shapes. One plant by itself looks lonely, unless it's a specimen plant. More than three is okay if you want a "drift" look in a large space. But for the average space, groups of three work best. Think about texture, color, how the plants might complement each other. Tall plants go at the back of the border, working down to smaller plants in front. When deciding on an area to plant, think of curved edges rather than thinking in straight lines. Generally, only formal gardens utilize straight lines well. A natural curve always adds warmth and appeal to a garden.