Think about it. Would you get ready for an elegant soiree without putting on your earrings or your cufflinks? Would you give a carefully selected birthday gift without adding a lovely ribbon and bow? Probably not. Much as we are in the habit of adorning items (including ourselves) to increase attractiveness and desirability, so too can we adorn our gardens to enhance their appeal.



Ornaments for your garden are only limited by your imagination. Let me list a few items. You can get statues (classical or whimsical; it's up to you), planters, plant stakes, wind chimes, bird houses, bird baths, sculptures, fountains, rocks, etc. You can get ornaments that can be both functional and decorative. They can create divisions between areas of your garden, or hide a private nook, etc. What you use them for is up to you, but the garden d'cor you use will make a statement about you and your personality, as well as create your garden's own individuality.

When choosing ornaments to incorporate into your garden, consider the existing plantings, the hardscape of walls and paving, and your own taste. Bear in mind the unique style of your garden, as well. Is it made out of southwestern accents and elements, filled with lush greenery? Or perhaps it's a lush Victorian garden abundant with climbing roses and wicker furniture? Certain ornaments lend themselves to particular styles. For example, a classic white marble statue would go well in a garden of neatly clipped boxwood and symmetrically arranged stone urns. But it would look quite out of place standing amidst a collection of desert cacti and terra cotta planters.

Waterfalls or fountains would add a significant boost to the life of your garden. Water elements can vary from simple creations to elaborate designs. Water can be serene and peaceful as they flow in a quiet stream, or it can splash and cascade as it tumbles over rocks. Water can attract birds and mask noises from the outside, too. Aside from the inherent beauty that water provides, your garden will benefit from the decorative structures you use to contain it.

You can also use sculptures as artistic elements. These can be made out of any material, but metal is popular because of its propensity to rust and develop a strange beauty through prolonged exposure to weather. Gates are a wonderful feature to add to home gardens, especially those with patios, terraces, or just about any large garden space. These are wonderful examples of both functional and decorative pieces, and they can be made out of a variety of materials, from wood to wrought-iron creations. Gates can also invoke an air of privacy, or they can be open and inviting. Even if it leads to nowhere, gates are still a charming addition to any garden.

Try out new and different decorations for your garden, and discover what appeals to your personal tastes and enhances your garden's style. As well as adding beauty and charm, you will be improving the individuality and personality of your garden, to reflect that which is uniquely you.