Gardens are part of British folklore, so when I see a gardening discussion, I can’t help but take a peek. A very British gardening discussion arose recently, detailing the worst garden trends.
American gardening is much different from its British counterpart. For one, the average American yard is five acres, which dwarfs its friends’ gardens across the pond. Therefore, it is no surprise the British can cover their much smaller outdoor spaces.
Subsequently, the British garden is a thing of beauty. Walk through any small country village in summer, and you are met with a euphony of color and floral bloom. However, as a one-time British citizen myself, I can attest that some people’s gardens border on an eyesore.
A recent post discusses the worst garden trends of all time. So here are ten garden fashion movements we don’t need to see again, as shared by the green-fingered British public.
1. The Back Garden Bar or Pub
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Come on, now. This is a dream for so many dads, so I cannot support this choice. However, it depends on the bar design. Anything dingy or dark will not make the cut, though a shed with some games and a few beer taps can be done with style.
2. Plastic Ornaments
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Anything from pirate ships to frescos of insects, if colorful and plastic, won’t last long under a year of ultraviolet sun rays. Plastic and the elements are not best friends.
3. Fake Animals
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
If you are growing vegetables in your garden, the last thing you need is an attack from crows or blackbirds on your hard-earned produce. A statue of a solemn owl or threatening eagle may be enough to deter those winged thieves; just lose the pink flamingos already.
4. Buddha Statues
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Buddhists worldwide are outraged at this — no, that was a joke. Buddhists will mostly tell you are having a Buddha statue will add peace or harmony to the garden. There is one condition, however — the statue must not be directly on the ground.
5. Recycled Tires as Plant Pots
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Now, would you rather see a tire go to a landfill? Of course not. Although tires can be unsightly — especially if stacked and placed on a front driveway (looking at you, brother), conservation trumps aesthetic for me. Keep them coming, gardeners!
6. Ivy
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Suburban residents who decide that they love the creeping ivy look on their homes must remember one thing — especially if living in a semi. Their neighbors didn’t ask for this, and cutting down ivy is time-consuming. Just stop.
7. Wind Chimes
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Wind chimes used to be a gift from your backpacking aunt who had just returned from a spiritual retreat in Peru, but then they became bourgeois. A post simply reflects these devices: “Definitely a personal taste thing. The sound is either ethereal or irritating to most.”
8. Trampolines
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Understandably, the garden grinches of the world consider trampolines in the neighbor’s garden an eyesore. If you have children, trampolines are a gift from God wrapped by Thor and Zeus. Sorry neighbors, they are here to stay.
9. Hot Tubs
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
I sense a little jealousy in this vote. Who wouldn’t want a hot tub in their garden? The only problems I can imagine people having are the sight of semi-clad neighbors in the garden or the late nights some must spend outside making noise.
10. Garden Gnomes
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
A while ago, a Dutch man felt so sorry for his neighbor’s gnome that he stole it and took it on a world tour, sending his neighbors photos of their lost ornament from different locations. This shows a reverence for gnomes that voters in this discussion clearly lack — gnomes are okay.
How to Grow and Care for Pampas Grass (Plus Decor Ideas!)
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) feature feathery plumes that add a stylish look to any indoor or outdoor space. Learn how to grow and care for it here.
20 Most Popular Types of Palm Trees for Homeowners
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Homeowners are increasingly turning to palms for their landscaping needs. Learn about 20 of the most popular palm trees for homeowners here.
How to Grow and Care for Eucalyptus Plant (Indoors + Outdoors)
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.
Eucalyptus isn’t just for Koalas! It can be a great addition to your indoor or outdoor atmosphere. Learn how to care for it in this guide.
Forget Me Not: Plant Care Tips, Growing Guide, and Symbolism
Photo Credit: Shutterstock.
Forget me not are loved and valued for their beautiful flowers. Learn how to plant, grow, and care for them, along with details about their symbolism and lore.
How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Plumeria Plants
Photo Credit: Dreamstime.
Plumeria is a genus of flowering plants indigenous to tropical and subtropical regions, including Southeast Asia, Central America, the Caribbean, and the Americas. The plants are well-known for their exquisite, scented blossoms, frequently used in classic Hawaiian leis.
This originally appeared on Planet Natural.
This thread inspired this post.
Melissa Askari is a biologist and master gardener who is known for her contributions to the field of sustainable living. She is a regular contributor to Planet Natural, a website that provides information and resources for gardening, composting and pest control. Melissa's work focuses on promoting environmentally-friendly practices and helping people create beautiful, healthy gardens using natural methods. With her expertise in both biology and gardening, Melissa is able to provide valuable insights and advice to gardeners of all levels. Her passion for the natural world is evident in her writing and her dedication to promoting sustainable practices that benefit both people and the planet.
Copyright © 2004-2023