Two garden design rules you should adhere to and one you can likely skip

When I meet with clients to plan their new garden I ask a lot of questions about how they use the space as well as their overall vision for the area. While I strive to design for their personal style and desires, I always keep in mind that it's necessary to adhere to certain design rules to ensure form and utility. These rules help to create a garden that is not only aesthetically pleasing but functional. If you are starting to think about planning your space here are two rules that you should always follow and one you can likely skip.

Rule #1: Plan seating areas and hardscapes first

The focal points of most gardens are the areas from which we will enjoy them. Seating areas always need to be designated and designed before any planting begins. Hardscape pathways also need to be at least accounted for in order to layout the areas around them.

Rule #2: Don't forget to plant and budget for evergreens

I love evergreens, especially conifers. They are the backbone of all good garden design and if you skimp on them your garden will lack structure and winter interest. I encourage my clients to spend the most of their plant budget on evergreens and to plant them first if they are designing in phases.

The rule you can probably skip: Not following fence lines when planting

As yards get smaller this may not be something feasible in every design. Straight planting lines along a fence aren't visually appealing and they can make a garden feel closed in. However, if you can soften the edges even a little along fence lines it will slow the eye down and make the space appear larger. I also recommend putting a focal point plant (think small tree) or structure (like a trellis) in the middle part of the garden to draw your eye inward and away from the fencing.

Rules of garden design serve an important purpose and should generally be followed. Still, gardens are a personal space and breaking a rule or two now and then to make the most of your space is perfectly fine if it makes your garden more enjoyable.