Spring has arrived which means it is time to rediscover and possibly redesign your landscape. Linda King, Ford House gardener, will take you step by step through a successful redesign of your garden and also give real examples on how the Ford House does it.

Step 1: Map your area

Map out the area you would like to redesign on a piece of paper so you know exactly how much space you’re working with.

How we do it:

When the landscape team first decided to redesign the Tribute Garden, Linda drew a preliminary drawing diagramming the changes for the Tribute Garden.

Step 2: Do your research

What kind of space are you working with? Is it a shaded area? Is it in direct sunlight? Do you want annuals, perennials or both? Do you have a color scheme in mind?

How we do it:

The design for the 2012 Tribute Garden features annuals and perennials suitable for cut flowers, which may be used in floral arrangements throughout the Activities Center.

The cut-flower concept pays homage to the historical use of this space, which was designed by Jens Jensen as a service and farm area for the estate. The plant palette features colors favored by Mrs. Ford including white, yellow, and blue.

Step 3: Plan

Once you have your preliminary drawing and you did your research on your landscape, it is time to put the final plan together.

How we do it:

The peak blooming time for the Tribute Garden is mid-June/early July but it is designed for season-long interest. For example, tulips bloom in spring, annuals in summer and coneflower in late summer.

Step 4: Implement the Plan and Enjoy!

For more information or questions email the Ford House gardeners at gardener@fordhouse.org.

For more information on the Tribute Garden, contact Bernadette Bank at bbanko@fordhouse.org.