Whether it is shared or belongs to your neighbour, the effect of a wall in the garden is largely the same. It imposes itself forcefully, highlights the potential crampedness of the space, and often presents a rather gloomy face. And if it is built from unsightly concrete blocks and blocks the sun, the urge to grab a heavy sledgehammer is not far off. This ultimate solution should be forgotten (unless the wall is yours), so here are some ideas to work with, dress up, or take advantage of a wall in the garden.
If, like me, you are always on the lookout for the latest trends, I am sure you are already thinking of “green walls”. They create stunning displays and are an excellent option if you have the right budget. Indeed, vertical gardening is not something you can improvise: it requires quite advanced techniques. I’m sorry to burst your bubble, but it is expensive, and even more so if the installation is poorly managed, as you will have to replace the plants, which may perish from either lack or excess of water or fertiliser.
Green wall - Source: Pinterest
So I suggest we focus on simple, realistic, and easy-to-implement solutions.
Planting a bed in front of the wall
The first solution to break the massive effect of a wall is to use it as a backdrop. If it is rather attractive (the charm of old stones…), its presence will soon be balanced by the plants. Shrubs and perennials are classic choices. You just need to choose them well according to the exposure. If the wall blocks the sun, you can opt for heather soil shrubs, Hostas, ferns, Epimediums… If it is south-facing, it will retain heat, allowing you to plant some tender varieties. Unfortunately, this option is only feasible in larger gardens...
Climbing plants: champions of ascent
Climbing plants are a natural choice when it comes to greening a wall. They should be the first option that comes to mind, especially since they occupy minimal ground space.
Whether they climb the structure on their own using their climbing roots (Virginia creeper, ivy…) or need a little assistance, anything is possible. Honeysuckles, clematis, climbing hydrangeas, Akebia... the choices are vast. Don’t hesitate to combine them to create a lush tapestry that will bloom with flowers throughout the seasons.
Greening a wall: Honeysuckle, Akebia quinata rosea, Schizophragma, Clematis 'Etoile Rose', climbing hydrangea
Regarding installation, I have given up on commercial trellises (too expensive or unattractive) in favour of metal cables (from the Gripple brand). I can do whatever I want with them; they are discreet and incredibly sturdy. If you are a bit handy and creative, go ahead and invent your own supports!
Focus on wood and create the illusion
To disguise an unsightly wall, wood is a material of choice. Its natural appearance pairs well with plants and gives a touch of countryside charm to even the most urban gardens. It is relatively easy to implement and not too costly if you opt for a species like Douglas fir.
To counter the feeling of enclosure, one solution is to create the illusion of openings. Cleverly placed and integrated into the vegetation, garden mirrors can be truly stunning.
A beautiful effect of openness thanks to a mirror (Source: Pinterest)
In the category of trompe-l'œil, simulating the presence of a shed, as done by Isabelle Olikier or Hugues Peuvergne, will also have a lovely effect. Some wood, a reclaimed door and window… a few weekends of work and you’re done!
Two examples of trompe l'œil: the shed by Isabelle Olikier and the shelter by Hugues Peuvergne (Photo Pinterest)
Bring in some colour!
Solid colours are very energising in a small garden or terrace. They set the tone without hesitation and complement modern-style gardens well. Bright orange, deep red, Klein blue, sunny yellow, or Indian pink… anything is possible as long as you remain consistent with the overall atmosphere of the garden and choose your furniture wisely.
Two examples of colourful walls - Source: Pinterest
Black often puts people off. I love it. It adds a very chic and contemporary touch and truly highlights the foliage: don’t banish it from your palette, even in the shade!
White is very versatile: paired with blue and Mediterranean perennials, it transports you to Mykonos. With hydrangeas, you find yourself in Brittany! Paired with a hint of beige, it also suits white gardens. However, avoid it in less sunny regions, as you may find it looking pale for nine months of the year.
But perhaps you have a good artistic flair: why not animate the wall with a lovely drawing? If not, consider reaching out to people like Claire Delahaye, a landscape designer (Slowgarden), who masters the art of murals:
Mural - Photo: Slow garden
Finally, if you, like me, have a practical mindset, know that a south-facing wall is ideal for supporting a pergola, a lovely summer kitchen, or a greenhouse… the latter will benefit from the thermal mass of the stone to maintain a gentle warmth.
Most of these images were sourced from Pinterest… It is a true treasure trove of ideas. Don’t hesitate to sign up and follow our boards!
Comments