Island Garden Ideas

Island gardens stand alone in a yard or other landscape area.fleurs bleues image by harmonie57 from Fotolia.com

Island gardens are located in open area of lawn. Unlike gardens that are up against walls or fences, island gardens are viewable from all sides and should be laid out accordingly. Regardless of shape or size, island gardens can be used to accent yards, entryways or driveways and give an added element to any outdoor landscape.

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Putting an island garden in a bright and sun-filled area displays ornamental grasses and other sun-loving plants. Mix golden conifers and Texas blue sage to create a simple blue-and-gold garden. With ornamental grass gardens, it helps to add rocks and sculptures to enhance the garden area, creating a space distinctly separate from the surrounding area.

Traditional island gardens are placed in the center of lawns. They are oval, oblong or rectangular. Planting a pink or red rose bush in a traditional island garden will add to the classic and sophisticated feel of the space. Use an arbor to allow the rose bush to grow healthily in the center of the garden.

Then plant ornamental grasses to fill in the sides of the garden bed and add other complementary flowers such as daisies and day lilies to fill out the areas. Edge the garden with hand-picked weathered stones or rocks that go with the garden's overall look.

Planting an island garden around an already-existing tree is common type of island garden. Put shade-loving plants such as ferns and columbines around the tree.

Then plant hostas and other short ferns and grass farther out from the tree, eventually lining the garden with flowers such as hellebores and lilies. Border the garden with natural materials such as wood logs, stones or a combination of the two.

Wildlife island gardens attract butterflies, hummingbirds and other creatures. Plant nectar and seed plants like butterfly bushes, salvias and coneflowers to attract the wildlife. Leaving an area of open, damp soil will allow the butterflies to rest and drink. Adding a birdbath will help attract even more birds. Line the island garden with elements that birds can rest on, such as high rocks or stumps.