Maintaining a traditional garden can quickly turn out to be costly and time-consuming.
If you love nature, the
wild garden
may be the solution.
By recreating a natural environment, you will be surprised to rediscover the charm of the local fauna and flora, while reducing maintenance chores.
Here is some information and advice on a concept that might just convince you to rethink your approach to gardening.
To discover
February: what vegetables and fruits are in season?
What is a wild garden?
The wild garden, also called "natural garden", is opposed to the
"French style"
garden whose design is based on symmetry and the rigorous organization of plants.
It was first mentioned in the 19th century by William Robinson, an Irish gardener.
The latter recommended favoring the authentic beauty of nature rather than seeking to thwart it by imposing strict rules.
The creation of a wild garden therefore requires the presence of native plants, but also elements that can serve as shelter for wildlife, such as a stump, a rockery or a pile of wood.
Today, this landscaping is coming back into fashion.
In addition to promoting biodiversity
,
the wild garden is an invitation to contemplation and reconnection with nature.
Another advantage is that the time spent on its maintenance is relatively low, since the vegetation naturally benefits from self-seeding and the benefit of regional climatic conditions.
Also read: How to create a medieval garden?
Our selection of plants to create a wild garden
To respect the principle of the wild garden, choose local species which will flourish naturally in their environment.
It is therefore important to check whether the plants mentioned below are present in your region.
The Molinie
is a grass characterized by foliage provided in spring, the colors of which evolve towards gold in autumn.
Drought resistant, it brings structure and volume to the wild garden.
The aster
is a perennial that is distinguished by its star-shaped flowers, whose colors vary from white to blue, including mauve and fuchsia.
Its abundant flowering in late summer and fall makes it the ideal plant for introducing color without requiring long hours of garden work.
Columbine
It is a hardy perennial whose elegant, colorful flowers brighten up wild gardens from May to July.
Thriving in drained soils, it delights bees and butterflies who are attracted by its abundant nectars.
Sweet
woodruff
It is a small perennial plant that flowers from spring to early summer.
Forming magnificent carpets of greenery, it easily finds its place in shaded areas of the garden.
Also read: 5 plants to attract butterflies to the garden
5 tips for creating your wild garden
These 5 tips will be useful for you to build a living and harmonious natural space.
Choose local species adapted to the characteristics of your region.
Opt for plants of different heights to add depth to your wild garden.
Select plants whose flowering is staggered to enjoy a garden that is always colorful and lively.
Recreate natural habitats by placing shelters for wildlife, such as piles of branches, rock gardens or piles of dead leaves.
Broadcast “meadow flower” seed mixtures which will fill in fallow areas and attract pollinating insects.