2010-08-30 02:11:00
This summer I was in central France, on a town twinning exchange, and I was amazed by the quality and variety of planting styles that I came across. These are just a few of my favourites:
A municipal border in the town of La Ville aux Dames (twinned with Dollar). This style of exuberant mixed planting was in evidence in many of the towns. The combination of perennials, ornamental grasses and annuals create a fantastically energetic display - so different from many British municipal bedding schemes!
Just look at this fantastic container! This stone trough in the medieval town of Chinon is typical of summer displays that I saw throughout the Loire valley towns. The airy forms of fennel, Verbena bonariensis and Pennisetum are some of my favourites for both borders and containers.
After a week in the Loire region it was on to Paris, where the use of containerised planting to enliven and define the outdoor cafe spaces was a sight for sore eyes. And don't get me started on the fantastic street trees ...!
Houseboats on the Sienne - with gardens, of course. In this one I particularly like the 'turf' table and benches ... although I do wonder if the wine glasses topple over on the sward...
Last, but not least, a reminder of the informality of the rural areas. This cluster of cacti were nestled against the sunny wall of a gite ... a simple yet artful grouping that sums up the relaxed informality of our French hosts.
I am already planning the next visit!
Posted by Shades of Green Garden Design