Let’s start with hiding the trashcans.
A good use for a tree that had to be removed from the property. Turn cut logs into a screen for hiding trash cans. Purple verbena is growing in containers placed on top the logs, and a trash can and recycle bin are behind it. This is so Pinterest worthy.
Ranking #2 on the list of questions my clients ask is how to hide trash cans, HVAC units, meter boxes, well heads–all those eye sores around the house. The solution, to my client’s way of thinking, is never cheap. Elaborate fences, major plantings, stone walls, you name it. So, this inexpensive (even the pots aren’t pricey), and completely charming idea, artfully done by Pat and Joe Webb of Brevard, should be inspiration for us all.
The Webb’s, retired antique dealers (Barclay-Scott Antiques) and furniture re-finishers (Ancient City Refinishing) from St. Augustine, Florida know something most landscapers and new-to-gardening folks don’t. It doesn’t have to be new or costly to make an impact. Recycled and used work great in the garden, too.
And, a garden doesn’t have to be matchy-match (a real design term). From the labyrinth container in their front yard to the potting shed in the back yard, the Webb’s garden is so much dang fun.
a Labyrinth & Appalachian garden Shed, totally want this
Labyrinth container done with sedum, moss and pebbles.
A garden shed with style can be incorporated into the garden, not hidden away behind the garage.
The Webb’s said the garden shed, which is constructed of local locust wood, tin roofing and windows from an eastern North Carolina farm, was a whim. They were looking for their next project. This was it, a functional (they use it to store garden tools and start seeds), and yes, looks-like-it-is-straight-out-of-the-Appalachian-mountains, shed. It is their newest, and yet another Pinterest-worthy part of their garden.
Even Better, Mix it up. classical statues & veggie gardens
A rosemary topicary placed near an antique statue bring a more classical element to the garden. The Webb’s enjoy embracing a mix of elements, as well as the old with the new.
Raised vegeablte beds sit behind the garage and at the end of the patio. An easy place to work and a nice view from the patio.
The perfect place to sit after weeding the garden, or enjoy an evening near the fruits of your labor.
The Webb’s garden is full of charm and surprises. Every corner has something to delight and surprise the visitor. Visit more than once and you’re sure to find all sorts of things you missed the visit before. But, functionality is a part of the overall design. The vegetable garden doesn’t detract from the patio seating area, it adds to it.
Swooning: moss gardens & what to do with broken pots
One of the highlights of the Webb garden are all the “surprises”. This moss garden tucked into a corner behind the garage is one of them.
Charming is the word that comes to mind as you walk through their garden. This broken container is used for seed starting.
This house and garden were built at the same time, and functionality was a consideration. This herb rail and garden pictured below are immediately outside of the kitchen. It’s a sunny spot, perfect for herbs, and because it is close to the kitchen, they’re more likely to use the herbs.
the herb garden we all want
The neighbor’s cat enjoying a sunny spot among the herbs.
The herb garden extends below the rail where larger herbs can be planted.
The Webb’s garden is actually quite small. It encircles the house incorporating all sides for purposes of beauty and function. Gardens don’t have to be elaborate to be enjoyed. They can be simple, functional and charming. The Webb’s have achieved all three.
Written by Cinthia Milner, garden coach, blog writer, and outside sales.
BB Barns serves all of Western North Carolina, upstate South Carolina, and Tennessee.
