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The Power of Color

Color is an essential part of landscape design. It can create interest, provide contrast, and evoke emotions. When it comes to choosing the right colors for your landscape, there are a few things to consider.

Catmint, deep purple Salvia, Allium, and lady's mantle. (Photo by Matthew Cunningham Landscape Design LLC)

First and foremost, consider your personal style and preferences. What colors do you love? Are there any colors that you don't like? By starting with your personal preferences, you can create a landscape that you'll truly enjoy and appreciate.


In addition to personal style, it's essential to consider the colors that are already present in your landscape. For example, if your house has a lot of red brick, you may want to choose colors that complement the red tones, such as yellow, gold, or orange. On the other hand, if your house is painted blue, you might want to choose colors that complement the blue tones, such as pink, purple, or white.


Another consideration is the size and shape of your space. If you have a small space, using too many bold colors can make the area feel cluttered and overwhelming. On the other hand, if you have a large space, using too many muted colors can make the area feel dull and lifeless. By choosing colors that work well with the size and shape of your space, you can create a balanced and visually appealing landscape.


When it comes to using color in landscaping, there are two main types of color relationships: complementary colors and analogous colors. Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel and tend to be bold and eye-catching. Some popular complementary color combinations include red and green, blue and orange, and purple and yellow.


Analogous colors, on the other hand, are next to each other on the color wheel and create a more subtle transition between colors. Some popular analogous color combinations include blue, blue-green, and green; red, orange-red, and orange; and yellow, yellow-green, and green.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and what works best for your space.



Sneezeweed (Helenium) and dark plum ninebark foliage (Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Diabolo’) (Photo by Le jardinet)

Next, it's important to consider color harmony. This refers to the idea that colors should be arranged in a way that is pleasing to the eye. Avoid using too many different colors as it can make your landscape look "messy" or "busy". Instead, try grouping colors together to create a more cohesive look.


One way to achieve color harmony is to use a color scheme. A color scheme is a group of colors that work well together and can create a specific mood or atmosphere. Some popular color schemes include monochromatic, complementary, and analogous.


When it comes to making the best color choices, it's all about personal preference and the look you're trying to achieve. Keep in mind that colors can evoke feelings, so think about the mood you want to create. For example, red and yellow can create a feeling of energy, while pink and white can feel more subdued.


At the end of the day, using color in landscaping is all about creating a space that you love and enjoy. By considering your personal style, the colors already present in your landscape, the size and shape of your space, and color relationships and harmony, you can create a beautiful and visually appealing landscape that you'll be proud to call your own.


And remember, I'm always here to help guide you through the process and make suggestions you might not have considered. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to work together to create a beautiful, colorful landscape that you'll love!


Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) mixed with white bigleaf hydrangeas and evergreen boxwood (Buxus sp.) (Photo by Liquidscapes)


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