In the world of gardening, the felt need to create a landscape/garden/patio that is lush, flowing and elaborate often rears its head. In some cases, bigger is better, but sometimes, simple is ok…or even better.
Make your choice as to how extravagant a particular design needs to be based on the purpose. In the example of aesthetic appeal around a tree, a sitting bench, short shrubs, annuals and perennials would be great choices if you are going to use it as a relaxation spot. However, if it’s not to be a respite location, then these items become a bunch of stuff to take care of, more of a burden than an asset. A simple grouping of hostas or your favorite shady perennial would be the better approach.
Here’s another example: Again, considering the purpose of the site, if screening is needed, then a simple line of short shrubs provides excellent separation of one space from another, there is no need to be elaborate with a bunch of elements.
And another: If the purpose is to provide some color in all seasons and fill in a space with green, but not overwhelm the landscape visitor, then 3 hollies in a row fit the bill perfectly.
Now to the situation where a little more complexity is required. Typically, if you’re in a highly used area with hardscape such as a deck and path, it makes sense to install plants that are more on the elaborate side. This usually involves differing heights of plants, separated from the hardscape, separated from the lawn. But, even here, remember simple is ok, and it is certainly easier to take care of.
