Starting with a design before planting a garden creates an intentional space to allow the garden to evolve, slowly and creatively, in synch with nature. In my books and classes, I teach how to create a sanctuary that turns work into play through artful garden designs. My six steps to successful design make it easy to create a kitchen garden that is both beautiful and productive, based on the classic European parterre.
I planted my first garden fresh out of art school, marking the perimeters with four sticks and a ball of twine. With a sharp-edged spade, I removed a thick layer of rugged turf, dug up the stony soil, and then shoveled on the compost. I measured long, straight rows before planting seeds for basil, lettuce, and arugula sprinkled with water, and walked away.
There was a constant battle with the weeds, and the garden hose didn’t quite reach, so the plants were frequently thirsty. Yet the thrill of dashing to the garden just before dinner to clip a few leaves of frilly Lolla Rossa and crimson Bull’s Blood Beet greens for my salad kept me at it. Soon the long straight rows turned into arcs and splashes of color, adding height for more drama and places to sit. I was making art in the garden instead of on canvas.
My garden design style has evolved over several decades, always based on my curiosity to play with color, textures, and flavor. I support rewilding in and around my garden to allow the plants and nature to thrive. Join me on the journey to more artful kitchen gardening, and better health for you, your family, and the planet.
