Garden accents

“Every man’s work is always a portrait of himself.” (Samuel Butler)

Yes, “A garden is the mirror of a mind.” (Henry Beston)

That is why every garden is unique. Gardens are a reflection of their owner’s sensibilities. And that is why people put accents in their gardens. It’s their mark, what fits their fancy. A piece of garden art here, a simple whimsical sign there…

Accents in a garden can be formal – usually statuary in bronze like our horse here next to this Magnolia tree, with the vineyard in the background.

It fits perfectly on the front lawn adjacent to our own pasture land where our horses Paris and Gracie (not visible here,) graze at leisure.

But stone, particularly marble and granite are also used, and look beautiful amongst the flowers and trees. Here we have a small marble fountain.

…and here one of our great cherubims flanking the front door steps, inviting…

More simple ones, certainly less expensive and commonly used are some concrete pieces. Our St. Francis is a good example.

This pot, a woman’s head, sits on the edge of the pond making it easy to remember to add water.

As is this garden book

whimsical in its sayings:

“Gossip in the Garden”

Good Morning Glory, What’s the Four O’Clock news?
Johnny Jump Up, lost his shoes.
Black eyed Susan has her eye on you.
And the Tulip wants a kiss or two.
Iris just wants Rose to know
Sweet William is her favorite beau.
etc. etc.

And it ends:

Tomorrow who knows what gossip

there will be,
The Flowers are from such a large Family.
Let’s talk again soon.
Good Day Lilly!

Bird baths are also found in gardens. They invite the birds and the butterflies, the dragonflies and even bees.

Fountains do the same, and offer also the sound of dripping water, so pleasant to all. Chloe loves fountains. Here is our large fountain on a misty morning.

And the one at the head of the upper pond.

And let’s not forget that everybody loves whimsical pieces, for they bring a smile to all. Here a simple garden stake says “Mind your Carrots and Peas,” while holding up the Black eyed Susans.

And this simple fairy takes all of us to our childhood and a world of make believe.

As do the bunnies.

Or the playhouse, with Chloe, all sweaty, waiting for the grandkids to give it life. With the grandchildren now all grown up, this little house is now gone from Chloe's garden. It's making a neighbor's kid happy instead. The memories however will be with us for ever.

Formal and function come together in these ironwork pieces. Arches anchor many paths. They mostly support our climbing roses or Clematis.

This one, less formal, is made of Rhododendron branches. It supports climbing roses as well as a wonderfully fragrant Jasmine.

Knowing Chloe’s love for her garden, many friends have brought her gifts. This little horse made it to our house just recently.

Form and function, a touch of the whimsical, come together in this antique manure spreader, which is a great support for potted plants, sometimes even vegetables. And as a bonus in the fall it comes alive with a fragrant white clematis.

Bird houses, feeders and bird accents in general will be presented in a future blog. For now, good morning to you, and thank you for visiting again Chloe’s garden.