The cottage garden is a garden style that consists of a mix of ornamental grasses, roses, fruit trees, shrubs and perennials. Lovers of a romantic garden make this come true in a cottage garden. An informal garden that originates in England. Here we find many cottages, which is why the associated garden got its name.
The origin of the cottage garden
During the 19th century, all kinds of architectural styles were used together. This period is also called Eclectism. As a reaction to this period, there are English architects who fall back on the use of honest and simple materials. For example, people start to oppose the landscape style (the English garden) and the "farm garden" is used as a starting point. In a farm garden we often see a vegetable garden, fruit garden, compost heap, flowers and herbs.
The layout of a cottage garden
In the cottage garden, each type of garden was given a specific place. For example, we saw the green garden by the library, the flower garden by the living room, the vegetable garden by the kitchen, the rose garden by the dining room and the pond behind the garage. All these small parts were enclosed by a hedge. And to reach the separate gardens, paths were laid, decorated with arches, fountains and flowers.
The atmosphere of a cottage garden is created by the flowers, scents and shapes in the garden. The soil must also be well-fed and otherwise manure was used. In addition, the use of old materials is also a must. Think of old fences, paving, troughs etc. Thanks to narrow paths, small passages and gates you get that real cottage garden atmosphere!
Must haves in a cottage garden
What should not be missing in a cottage garden? Which elements can be used and fit into any garden, large or small?
- Narrow, winding paths with lush borders. These types of paths are laid with paving stones.
- Flowering plants to cover as much ground as possible.
- Vertical greenery along a wall or pergola.
- Hedges as a separation between the different gardens.
- Intimate sitting areas in various places in the garden with various garden furniture .
- Water such as a pond, water feature or stream. This attracts frogs, birds and insects.
- Level differences for an exciting effect.
- A vegetable garden is also a must in the cottage garden. If you don't have room for it, make a vertical vegetable garden or use a handy container that you can move.
Maintaining a cottage garden
To be honest, the cottage garden is not a low-maintenance garden. Thanks to the many types of flowers and plants, the vegetable garden, herb garden and possibly the pond, there is a lot of work to be done. But if you are a real garden lover, this garden is a real godsend.
Garden furniture for a cottage garden
In a cottage garden there are all kinds of terraces, niches and corners where garden furniture comes into its own. A beautiful teak wooden bench such as Luytjens bench for example, or a garden set around a teak wooden garden table such as the round garden table classic for on the terrace. The natural look of teak fits very well with the natural look of the cottage garden.
