ROMANTIC PRETTY PASTELS
A dreamy, jumbled border of pillowy blooms in gentle pastel shades creates a traditional, country cottage-garden feel, even in the middle of a town or city. Perfect for a sunny spot or to light up a partly shaded border, a romantic pastel scheme can showcase beloved English border classics – think blowsy roses, towering hollyhocks and fragrant phlox in delicate, muted blues, sugary pinks and creamy yellows.
This look is all about informality – avoid planting in straight lines or defined patterns and instead create loosely repeated, closely spaced groups, allowing them to cascade naturally over paths or lawns and weave through each other to add to the overall charm.
A romantic border looks effortless but needs planning and maintenance. Selfsowers need reining in, perennials need periodic dividing, and deadheading large numbers of blooms can be time-consuming, but the joy they give far outweighs the work.
Five key plants
Hairy chervil (Chaerophyllum hirsutum ‘Roseum’) is like a pink cow parsley, and adds structure and froth.
Foxgloves, such as Digitalis purpurea ‘Excelsior Hybrid’, come in a range of delectable pastel shades, including pinks, lavenders and whites.
Repeat-flowering shrub rose ‘Olivia Rose Austin’ has delectable pink blooms that flower early and carry on well into autumn.
Sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) are a must-have – try ‘Heirloom Pastel Mix’ for profuse, fragrant blooms.
Silver foliage accentuates pastel hues perfectly – try French lavender (Lavandula stoechas) and lamb’s ear (Stachys byzantina).
FIERY HOT HUES
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Patchwork PROJECTS
Easy ideas to show off English paper-piecing techniques
Night train to BERLIN
Germany's exciting and varied capital is now reachable by train from the UK
French FANCY
Raymond Blanc's right-hand man, Benoit Blin's favourite bakes
Are you missing out on BENEFITS?
Here's how to find out what you are eligible for
TRAY bien
All-in-one tray bakes, packed with flavour
We took a grown-up GAP YEAR!
Who says taking time out is just for students?
'I'm obsessed with reality TV!'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Author and presenter Louise Minchin
What to eat and do for A HEALTHIER GUT
Fix those problems and boost your wellbeing
Picture palaces
In an age of cinema complexes, we celebrate five historic and beautiful picture houses that have stood the test of time
'My diet during Bake Off is cake and alcohol!'
Dame Prue Leith on the popular baking contest