I have been playing with the idea of moving some of the round boxwoods, which are getting larger (too large, in fact), from the Hall with Balls to other parts of the garden. I have been thinking about how symmetrical and predictable the Lower Garden is and I have been contemplating shaking it up a bit. Because my garden is on a slope, the boxwoods could be thought of as balls rolling from the Upper Garden, down the Hall with Balls, through the Lower Garden (seen here) all the way down the hill to the Woodland Garden. When I saw how the snow and the hardscape the garden were apparent this morning, I thought I could mock up different combinations of rounds that would feel as if they were rolled into the garden from above. My intention is to break up the perfect symmetry of the Lower Garden, add some whimsy, but still keep a continuity of rounds throughout my small garden. Here are 7 different ways to arrange the boxwood balls:
For some reason, all these balls rolling through the garden reminded me of Frank Lloyd Wright's landmark design, Fallingwater. Maybe my garden could be named 'Rollingballs'. Let me know if you have a favorite combination of boxwood balls.
I like the symmetry of the first photo and the way it pulls you into that garden from patio. Like the second one as it's unpredictable. In the third one I like how the balls look like they are flowing towards the entrance to woodland garden. The forth one feels too much like two and two on the right side, although that would be softened with other plants. The fifth photo pulls one in similar to the first photo. I like how the sixth one gives more weight to the patio side of the garden, anchoring it. I like the last one best of all because it anchors both sides and feels inviting in all directions. And more evergreen would be nice against the stone wall, especially in winter. I want to know how you did this with the green pen! Loved how you did that! I like it all!
ReplyDeleteDo you like it better without box balls, Maude?
DeleteI made a photocopy of the picture, drew on it, and then scanned it.
It turned out to be a good way to see all the choices quickly.
No, I like the repetition of the balls throughout as a signature plant. Plus love the way other plants stand out against the roundness and the bright green. I think it's a great idea. And the way you played around with the drawings is an awesome idea. Thanks for sharing that!
ReplyDeleteThe question is will the ground ever thaw?
ReplyDeleteInteresting studies! To me, most any would work, if the pair of chairs can be moved to work with them, at least from the view you worked at.
ReplyDeleteNot looking like March here, though we're getting some chilly spells typical of early spring.
Thanks actually there are 4 chairs in that seating area which makes more sense if you could see them
DeleteHello Michael. I don't have any favourite combinations of boxwood specimens, but just lately I noticed a single box that was allowed to grow tall ( about 2 yards or more ): that height struck me because it's little seen like that. I hope you have alot of fun deciding - certainly you have the room to play around.
ReplyDeleteThanks! Playing is the operative word.
DeleteMichael,
ReplyDeleteI'd vote for next to last, but of course that depends on what else is there. Maybe more balls?
I have a request. I've missed several posts while on vacation. I can't figure out how to subscribe to your blog. It offers very limited choices. I'd love to be able to get email notices when you post.
I am hearing a lot about more balls. I liked Kjeld Slot's ideas below. I still have plenty of time to play around with ideas and arrangements.
DeleteJames, I have put you on the list to get posts emailed to you. The bad things is, every time I edit a post, which I tend to do often because there are usually errors I need to correct, you will get an email. Sorry in advance for that! Looking forward to more posts about your vacation. I just returned from haiti myself.
Don't ask me to tell you why, because I don't know, but I like the first and last combos best.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Les. I agree, it can be difficult to articulate why.
DeleteHi Michael
ReplyDeleteIf this was my plot, I´d make the place to a Ballroom!
I´d fill the place or the beds with balls in different sizes, like a dozent marbles random placed on a pinnball wizard. This would give me an interesting wiev from the house in wintertime and a solid ancor to the wimpsey plantation in the summertime. And whatever you make, - a gardenroom with classical perrennials or the more NPM with grasses it could be a Ballroom with party in the summer and a danceroom ind the Winter.
I think the smal balls and the smal number of the balls are a bit to poor in your generous garden.
You may grab the Money in your pocket or make some new balls in yew, box, and odther plants that could make a feast in this gardenroom.
Sorry to interfear, but you asked for my opinion.
Kindley regards
Kjeld
No interference at all, Kjeld. I really appreciate your feedback! You are pushing me to do what I was hesitant to try: especially random balls in the central lawn, which feels like a "ballsy" but exciting arrangement. I like the pinball wizard idea very much.
DeleteI like your idea very much but wonder why you have stopped at three? I'd use more balls, with a greater number planted closely together at the start, then fewer, spaced father apart as they 'roll' down the hill. .
ReplyDeleteI think I will have to add more balls, there seems to be a consensus, Pat. Thanks for chiming in!
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