Having a variety of plant material will create movement and flow throughout the planted area. Some might ask, “Wouldn’t a straight line of continuous plantings create flow?” Not necessarily, straight lines create a sense of direction, not movement and flow. The mind immediately recognizes repetition and directs the eye until there is a variance. What happens is a loss of interest; you know the next ten to twelve feet of plantings will be the same green wall you were staring at previously. The straight lines are very forceful and direct the eye to one view. Curved lines are much more graceful but can also be manipulated to control the observer’s view.

Using larger plants in an arc within a bedline will limit the view of what is to follow. Naturally, curiosity gets the better of us and we will continue to see what may be hiding; this technique is called progressive realization. Curved lines naturally create movement; the gardener can use this to their advantage. They can be used to highlight a focal point in the landscape. A grouping of flowing plants may be used to direct the view to a plant or ornament the gardener wants to be highlighted. A specimen plant may be placed in the arc of a bedline to emphasize its presence. Small trees such as Red Bud ‘Traveler’ and Weeping Cherry ‘Snow Fountain’ would be accentuated from planting in this arrangement. This process can also be used to direct foot traffic to another garden room. The idea of progressive realization can be used to carry an observer through an entire garden.

The use of curved lines complimented with proper plant placement can create rhythm and movement throughout the garden. A variety of plant groupings can add interest and diversity. Do not be afraid to cut into your turf to incorporate soft arcs and curves. The days of solid evergreens are past us! It is your garden/pallet so have fun! Don’t be afraid to explore the many different opportunities of design.

Have Fun!
Bobby C.
Fairview Greenhouses & Garden Center

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