Marine style in landscape design. Mediterranean style garden. What plants to plant in a mediterranean garden

The article talks about the Mediterranean style of landscape design. It is ideal for small areas and does not require constant maintenance. The main difficulty in its arrangement is landscaping, but this task is quite within the power of lovers of the sun and Mediterranean exoticism.

Harmony with nature in eternal rest

The Mediterranean Sea, the sun, sandy and stone beaches, rocky shores, a riot of greenery, flowers and eternal rest. Creating such a piece of paradise on his small, and not at all southern site will be the main task of the owner who has chosen this style.

You can equip the site, guided by general principles, or you can focus on the style of a particular country - Greece, Italy, Turkey. The most important thing to remember is that the general appearance of the site should not remind you of the hard work invested in creating landscape design, but should be conducive to serene relaxation and fun.

Composition principles and zoning issues

By the principle of construction, the Mediterranean style is close to the Moorish: a small area, a backyard patio, a blank fence. But many Mediterranean chalets have open front gardens on the front side of the house, and the task of reliably hiding your life is not set.

The most interesting feature of the compositional solution is the absence of a center. All elements fulfill their assigned purpose and there is absolutely no need to take care of their semantic connection with each other.

The appearance of the style does not gravitate towards the novelty and good quality of the buildings. The main thing is that they be whitewashed and painted in traditional colors for the style - white, blue, yellow, terracotta.

Perspective in Mediterranean style planning

The coast of the Mediterranean Sea in many places is a cliff, abruptly breaking off to the water. This makes Mediterranean landscaping a great find for slopes or hilltops. The more blue skies you can see from the highest point on the lot, the better. Such a perspective will create the illusion of the close presence of the sea, a special mood.

It is very important to provide a sense of the boundlessness of the sky. It’s great if at least one side of the site opens up a view of distant horizons, and there is no place for tall trees that block the view.

Small forms, fountains, paths are characteristic features of the style

A very important advantage that distinguishes it from ethnic gardens that are rather difficult to style is a huge number of elements, methods and design techniques that will easily and effortlessly help make the style recognizable.

The device of the fountain is not a prerequisite. But merrily murmuring jets of water falling into a stone bowl will enliven the composition and create the right mood. When creating a fountain, you can safely use both expensive natural materials and cobblestones at hand. In the composition of the fountain, you can use statues, bas-reliefs, frescoes. Unlike the fountains of Mauritania or China, Mediterranean fountains can huddle in secluded corners without claiming special attention.

Picturesque ruins are a simple stylization technique in the device. You can use parts of statues, fragments of pottery, parts of facade decorations, stylized Greek and Roman columns.

Unlike most ethnic styles, the Mediterranean involves the presence of a large number of different sculptures depicting people, animals, heroes of myths and legends.

Sculptures can be free-standing, they can be an element of compositional groups. But even here it is very important to show a sense of proportion and taste. A huge number of senselessly placed sculptures of style will not add to the garden.

Mediterranean-style paths are laid according to one rule - to make it convenient.

Mostly for the paths, paving with natural stone, tiles of natural colors is used. In various areas of the garden, you can lay out areas of non-strict geometric shapes from natural solid stone slabs.

The hallmark of the Mediterranean are clay pots, amphoras, vessels. In whole or broken form, they must be present in the form of flower pots, parts of sculptural and fountain compositions, and simply by themselves.

garden furniture

This is the rare case when almost any furniture will do. Openwork forged benches, vintage tables and chairs, stone and even marble benches, placed in the most comfortable corners of the garden.

Pergola - mediterranean gazebo

The Mediterranean-style recreation area is characterized by the presence of pergolas or open canopies. Initially, the pergola was a structure that supported the vine, and over time has become a hallmark of Mediterranean landscape design.

It is best to place them in places that offer the best view. Most often, wood is used to make pergolas, but both stone and forged metal can be used.

Usually a recreation area is placed next to the barbecue area. Recently popular brick braziers will fit perfectly into the style. Especially if you place nearby arches twined with greenery, openwork lattices on which you can hang pots and containers with flowers.

Mediterranean style landscaping

At first glance, it may seem that the selection of plants and caring for them is a very complicated matter, but this is not entirely true. Mediterranean style allows some neglect and neglect. We can say that this style is just a godsend for those who like to take care of their garden, but do not spend a lot of time cutting and weeding. When arranging a garden, you can do without exotic heat-loving plants, and use those that are able to overwinter in the open field.

For example, in recent years, breeders have been delighting gardeners with new frost-resistant grape varieties, the vine of which has bright, juicy greenery, and at the same time is able to bear fruit, creating the desired color and mood.

An irreplaceable plant is girlish, or wild grapes. In a few years, it will cover all the vertical surfaces of the site, without requiring special care.

Also, climbing roses, clematis, adlumia, honeysuckle are perfect for vertical gardening.

Plants in pots and containers will enliven the landscape. They can be arranged and hung literally everywhere - on the walls and windows of the house, on the fence and pergola, on trees, next to garden furniture. The brighter and more varied the color palette, the better.

From flowering plants, varietal roses, multi-colored geraniums, ropes, ageratum, amaranthus (amaranthus), chrysanthemums and begonias are suitable.

Pool decoration

Usually, ethnic styles do not imply a swimming pool, most often artificial reservoirs perform only decorative functions. Mediterranean style is an exception. The pool on the site will be the finishing touch in creating a place for a carefree holiday. The most important thing is to bring the design of the pool in full style.

With its device, a contrasting blue-yellow-white color scheme is most often used. The decoration uses natural stone, mosaic. The pool must be kept in perfect cleanliness, the water must always be clean and clear.

A properly arranged plot in the Mediterranean style with its cheerful colors and thoughtful design will allow its owners to feel in a Mediterranean resort, even on gloomy and rainy days.

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We associate the Mediterranean with a warm climate, bright sun, bright colors and great mood. Creating a garden in this style, we get a paradise for relaxation, work and simple enjoyment of life. In our article, we will introduce you closer to the Mediterranean style of the garden, tell you what plants, architecture and decor items are used in it, give some tips on arranging your site so that it is filled with warmth, comfort and peace.

Varieties of Mediterranean garden style

This style has some varieties that differ from each other.

  • Italian garden. Such a garden has a strict layout and a traditional Italian look. It uses symmetry, straight lines, paths and reservoirs of geometric shapes. The territory is divided into zones, which are delimited by hedges or pergolas with clematis, climbing roses or other liana-like ornamental plants. An Italian garden is laid out on an uneven area with hills, curvature or slope. All the shortcomings of the garden are decorated with plants, decorative objects, fountains, stairs, passages and paths. In separate zones, a fountain or pond, a grotto or a chandelier with benches are installed. In a garden of this style, you can often see columns, large flower pots made of stone, antique amphoras, bas-reliefs or garden figures. Of the plants, thuja and boxwood are most often found, which are cut in the form of a ball or spiral, as well as topiary.
  • mediterranean provence. A distinctive feature of this garden is the presence of plantings of lavender. It can be seen in separate pots, and as a lawn and in plantings with roses. The aroma of her flowers spreads over the entire garden, calms and puts thoughts in order. Also, such a garden is characterized by freedom of design, the absence of straight lines, the natural arrangement of plants. Forged objects are used as decor and additions to the garden: sofas, benches, tables, stairs, fences. Sofas and benches are covered with soft pillows with ornaments from the symbols of Provence - a rooster and lavender.
  • Greek garden. In a garden of this style, snow-white, olive, azure or terracotta color is used. It has many seating areas and nooks covered with pergolas or climbing plants, where you can hide from the scorching sun and enjoy socializing with friends or being alone. Among the items you can always see a large table and comfortable chairs. All furniture is made from woven bamboo, wicker or rattan. The windows of gazebos and summer buildings are decorated with light curtains that will protect from the sun and heating indoors. Boxwood, thuja or juniper are planted from plants. They are grown in pots for portability and winter storage. Such plants can change the image of the garden and serve as a shelter in certain areas. In addition, they serve as a beautiful background for flowering plants with a bright color. In Greek gardens, they make a zone for growing cultivated plants such as onions, garlic, lettuce, parsley, sorrel, basil, saffron, dill, celery, coriander and others.

Features of the Mediterranean style

In gardens of this style, the essential attributes are:

  • Stone or wicker furniture.
  • Forged benches are decorated with pillows.
  • Ceramic pots with and without plants.
  • Statues of ancient gods.
  • Sundial.
  • Fountain, pond.
  • Pergolas.
  • Stone paths.
  • Marble finish.
  • Mosaic compositions, colored glass.
  • Metal baskets or vines for fruit.

Since there are many gardens by the sea in the Mediterranean, sea shells, pebbles and sea stones are often used for their decoration. Stony uneven terrain requires the use of natural stone of different fractions and colors. Often it is marble chips or sea pebbles.

In a garden of this style, the components of Roman, ancient Greek and modern art are skillfully combined. This gives him the right to be considered one of the most colorful styles of landscape design. In it you can see forged or wicker furniture in light colors, ceramic containers for plants or decorations: flowerpots, pots, amphoras, molds. They are located throughout the territory, some of them are dug in half or laid at an angle, giving them the look of antiquity. The whole garden is designed in a single harmonious style, adhering to one concept.

Plants

Given that the Mediterranean climate is different from ours, plants should be selected that will look southern, but can be grown in our region.

Most often in such gardens you can see citrus and palm trees. They are planted in large pots and cleaned indoors for the winter. Topiaries and hedges are made from, and of various types. They also make individual figures in the form of a ball, cone or spiral.

To create shaded areas and vertical plantings, as well as to decorate buildings and objects, liana-like plants are used:, tecomu. They braid arbors and supports and have a spectacular appearance during flowering.

Many exotic plants are planted in separate pots, which are transferred to a separate room for the winter. These include:, olive, and others. Such plants will not only decorate the garden, but also give useful fruits.

Shrubs are planted as hedges or as separate elements. These are such as:, and others.

A garden of this style is not complete without flowers, which are planted in large numbers. They tend to be bright and fragrant. Annual and perennial plants are planted:,,, gloria, and others.

A separate place is reserved for fragrant herbs such as:,

A large role in the garden is played by water elements: a pool, a fountain, a pond, a water cascade, a stream. They are located in the recreation area, not far from the gazebo or bench in such a way that you get a good overview from the place of relaxation. The noise of falling water and the coolness from the pond will add even more comfort and enjoyment.

In some places of the garden, amphorae and pots decorated with flowers are installed. They are installed directly or under a slope, they make chips and cracks, giving the appearance of antiquity. Antique sculptures and ceramics are emphasized by plants and stand out against the general background with bright spots.

Another common element of the garden is the patio. It is located on the south side of the garden. In the original, such a platform offers a view of the sea, but in our region, instead of the sea, there can be a beautiful view of the garden, hill or lawn. To create the effect of the close presence of the sea, furniture and some items are decorated in a marine style, painted in white and blue.

Making out the platform and the gazebo, natural materials are used: reed, tiles, straw. The overall picture is complemented by sun loungers, rocking chairs and beach umbrellas.

An obligatory subject in a garden of this style are Greek or Roman sculptures that repeat the originals.

The chic nature of the Mediterranean rarely leaves anyone indifferent. Those who were lucky enough to visit the southern sea coast often want to build something similar on their site. Of course, it is pointless to plant citrus fruits of trees in our climatic conditions, since they will not be able to take root. However, if you adhere to the principles of the Mediterranean style in landscape design, then using the appropriate attributes, plants and architectural forms, it is quite possible to translate your plans into reality.

Mediterranean style in landscape design is characterized by an abundance of climbing, ampelous and green plants, mixed with stone paths, and forged furniture and accessories.

The Mediterranean style in landscape design is characterized by climbing, green plants, stone paths, and wrought-iron furniture. The great advantage of the Mediterranean style in the landscape lies in the possibility of arranging its modest territory (4-6 acres of land).

A narrow and long section in this case is not considered an obstacle to creating a patio - a patio. Terraces give characteristic features to the arrangement of the relief. A whitewashed brick or stone fence will help create a sense of privacy. A high hedge would also be appropriate for this style.

At the time of paving the tracks, large massive slabs should be avoided. An alternative to them will be natural stone or terracotta tiles. To fill the gaps between the coating, grass is suitable, which is resistant to drought. As for the gazebo, a design made of light woods, with clear shapes and strict lines, is ideal for Mediterranean landscape design. In the center of the patio, you can place a flashlight or make a mini-pond: this style is very reserved about the use of water.

Mediterranean design favors an abundance of wrought iron garden furniture and wooden benches. As decorative elements, ceramic vessels are ideal. As the latter, flower pots, vases, amphoras can be used.

With the onset of warm days, flowerpots can be installed on the patio, in which greenhouse trees are planted. As a rule, this is oleander, thuja of modest size, laurel. Pots with geraniums and small roses will be appropriate there.

Read also:

Tape flower bed or elongated single border

In addition to ordinary fruit trees, you can plant chestnut, varietal mountain ash, coniferous trees (cedar, juniper, etc.) in the garden. As for shrubs, honeysuckle, boxwood, euonymus are ideal for the patio. If the climate is favorable, for the decoration of the gazebo, you can give preference to cultivated grape varieties. To do this, you can also plant girlish or Amur grapes, hops, clematis.

Before proceeding with the arrangement, you need to draw up a project and prepare all the necessary materials and tools. To build a gazebo you will need:


Design plan for a cottage plot in the Mediterranean style.
  • shovel;
  • roulette;
  • pegs for marking;
  • twine;
  • saw;
  • a hammer;
  • screwdriver;
  • self-tapping screws;
  • nails;
  • oak or larch timber (3 m, 100x100 mm);
  • timber 50x100 mm;
  • crushed stone;
  • bitumen or tar;
  • lining;
  • concrete mortar;
  • roofing material.

Various materials can be used to create a roof. It all depends on which project was chosen. You can equip the roof using canvas, river reed, straw, tiles.

It is also necessary to prepare materials for creating terraces, paths, decorative elements and hedges in the Mediterranean style:

  • gravel;
  • sand;
  • seashells;
  • brick or natural stone;
  • ceramic tiles.

You will also need finished products:

  • clay pots;
  • terracotta vases;
  • sculptures;
  • fountain;
  • terracotta vases;
  • sculptures;
  • fountain;
  • garden furniture;
  • wrought iron pergolas;
  • fabric for decoration.

To create a patio, you also need to prepare seedlings of trees and shrubs, seeds, seedlings of flowers. The ideal option for clearings is lavender. However, if the climate does not allow growing this plant, it can be replaced with scepter-shaped mullein or speedwell.

The atmosphere of the Mediterranean will help to create plants in a certain color scheme. It is appropriate to give preference to purple, orange, blue and red shades. They can be planted in large groups, which will form bright spots around the perimeter of the site.

Read also:

Do-it-yourself water cascades on a slope: tips for gardeners


For the Mediterranean style, a small pond with stone trim and an abundance of plants will be a good addition.

A huge number of ceramic containers of various shapes are used for planting flowers, herbs. Such vessels can also act as separate decorative elements.

In the supine position, they are half buried in the ground or placed throughout the territory. In a place that is well warmed by the sun, you can grow a lawn of herbs. As the latter, mint, lavender, chicory, sage, parsley, dill are ideal. Under the influence of sunlight, these plants will evaporate essential oils, which will create a special atmosphere in the garden.

Small architectural forms

When it comes to creating Mediterranean-style relief, natural or man-made terraces need to be done so that their undermining is not washed out by rain. It is advisable to place them on a reliable solid foundation. As a rule, they are a layer of compacted gravel and sand on top of it, a flat stone dug into the ground.

If the support is made of wood, its lower part must be treated with a protective agent. With a slight difference in height, it is better to make one large terrace than to divide it into small segments.

You can decorate the garden with antique-style sculptures. In this case, you need not go too far with their number. During the arrangement, you will have to adhere to certain proportions. The Mediterranean style is characterized by paved areas that are connected by stone paths, as well as the absence of lawns. The division of the site into zones by means of trellises and pergolas is approved.

A simple pavilion for relaxation can be built from several pergolas and light textile drapery. Metal structures or structures independently knocked together from lining should be positioned so that they form a square or polygon. The area under them is tiled or covered with gravel. If a gazebo is being built, then it is important that there are no walls and any decor in it. As a rule, this is an ordinary canopy, the main design element of which will be the fabric. To protect it from the wind, you can place it near shrub plantings.

Mediterranean style is one of the most fashionable and popular today. It is actively used to decorate gardens, even where the actual Mediterranean plants cannot be used due to too strong winter frosts. But after all, the true southern charm of the garden can be given not only with the help of heat-loving authentic crops: in order to create a Mediterranean environment, you need to properly use the existing range of plants.

Mediterranean style landscape. © ninik black Content:

The main elements of the Mediterranean environment

Cypresses, pines, luxurious citrus and olive trees - these are the plants that first come to mind when mentioning the Mediterranean style. But in regions with severe winters, you cannot grow them. Which, however, does not mean at all that it is impossible to recreate the charm of the Mediterranean in your garden. A front garden, a seating area, flower beds on the terrace or a separate corner of the garden can be turned into a real southern oasis. To do this, you first need to correctly formulate your goal.

The expressive structure of the composition, the introduction of evergreen accents and borders, the dominance of greenery, beautifully flowering soloists and bright accents, attention to detail and adherence to the overall concept are the main elements of success. To compose a composition or a corner with a Mediterranean charm, you must:

  1. Determine the points of attraction of the eye and the main dominants (large structural accents) in ensembles, structuring elements (from supporting walls and hedges to supports for vines and plant borders), introduce objects of small architecture.
  2. Choose plants for the role of flowering soloists.
  3. Choose filler cultures - partner textural perennials that will fill the compositions with colors and volume and create the basis of ensembles - in color, “character”, texture.
  4. Do not forget about important details - decor, potted plants and materials.

Criteria for selecting crops for Mediterranean corners

Texture

The most important criterion of "selection" is texture: in the southern gardens, splendor, the ability to fill the soil with colorful curtains, density and volume play a role no less than the color scheme. The inimitable textures of sheared evergreens, herbs, landscape perennials form the basis of any composition, underlie its picturesqueness and charm.

The charm of the Mediterranean ensembles is largely based on the nature of the plants used in it - modest, not requiring special care, but inimitably beautiful landscape stars, skillfully limited by strict frames and accents.

Colour

Do not forget about the color palette: authentic Mediterranean gardens are distinguished by the calmness of colors and the purity and richness of color accents. Silvery-gray leaves, muted shades of greenery and the classic dominance of decorative foliage plants are very important for such a garden, as well as the right choice of blooming soloists with pure colors and partners, which should first of all evoke coolness and harmonious restraint, effectively emphasize the beauty of the main flowering accents.


Mediterranean style landscape. © Genevieve

Aroma

A Mediterranean-style corner will look more authentic the more fragrant crops you can use. Plant crops in such a way that a cloud of aromas greets you from the very first step.

Silhouette

Form and lines play an important role in the perception of Mediterranean-style ensembles. The vertical structure of the compositions, the presence of high and catchy accents in it, the contrast between large and background plants is just as important as the structure. Enrich the structure with the help of elongated columnar coniferous, standard plants, large shrubs, small architecture objects. Elongated spiers and ideal spheres are the main motifs of the Mediterranean, along with lush "solid" plantings of perennial herbs.


Mediterranean style landscape. © Hansel

Plants that will help create a Mediterranean ensemble

The selection of plants is based on recreating the charm of Mediterranean compositions with the help of perennials that can endure the conditions of the middle zone.

The main flowering beauties of the southern style are roses. White or pink, scarlet or original, climbing or bush, they can be safely used in the design of the southern corner in the maximum amount. The main thing is that the tone of the color of the petals is clean and rich: the original roses can be left for other styles.

Ground cover and large shrub roses are especially good in Mediterranean compositions, which give the whole ensemble cheerfulness. But not only they will fit well into Mediterranean compositions. Blooming actions are voluminous and romantic, as are the charming bushes of tree and herbaceous peonies.

Ideal for the Mediterranean flower garden santolina and helichrysum. Charmingly fit into the appearance of such a composition and acanthus with its white and pink peduncles. But the main partners are spicy plants and perennials typical of southern landscapes that can take root in our country: oak and medicinal sage, lavender of all varieties, oregano, Schmidt's wormwood and other species, thyme, catnip will gladly create a lush background for spectacular soloists.

Perfectly fit into such an environment asphodelina yellow, tireless stonecrops and spurges, an openwork cuff, stakhis with its silver leaves and silver-pink candles of inflorescences.

Well, in no case should we forget about the "canvas" - strict trimmed frames that will make soloists and magnificent partners shine in a new way. Sheared boxwoods and yews, with their dark greens and muted coloration, are ideal candidates for borders, geometric accents and backstage. Low borders and high hedges, sheared spheres give completeness and order to the exuberant collection of textural plants, are responsible for the structure and integrity of the compositions even in winter.

Strict vertical accents, similar in role to authentic cypresses in gardens in regions with harsh winters, will place elongated spiers of columnar varieties of junipers and cypresses.


Mediterranean style landscape. © homelandguild

Objects of small architecture in southern imitations

If you want to create a real Italian garden in your garden, a small Mediterranean-style oasis, try to actively use small architecture and its possibilities.

The easiest option is to place zoning arches that will effectively cover climbing roses with a blooming bedspread. With their help, you can both mark the transition to the Mediterranean zone, and divide the space into separate sections, add interesting touches to the vertical structure of the compositions. Obelisks will also cope well with the task of structuring.

If you are decorating a zone or a corner for relaxation, a terrace in the southern style, then think about the possibility of building pergolas that will help create a spectacular shelter. Grapes grow beautifully on pergolas, both decorative and fruit-bearing - a constant participant in the Mediterranean landscapes. The grapes will play the same effect of a truly Italian touch when draping a wall of a house or a fence, when grown on trellises.

The following will also fit perfectly into the look of the southern style:

  • stone flower beds and high flower beds surrounded by brick or stone walls;
  • supporting walls, beating the height differences;
  • imitation garden ruins;
  • semi-columns and balustrades, plinths and high stone flowerpots;
  • sundial;
  • wall fountains;
  • strict geometric ponds with fountains;
  • large garden sculpture, etc.

Mediterranean style landscape. © Werner Gartenbau

Decor and accessories that emphasize style

You can emphasize the charm of the Mediterranean corner or completely change the character of the design with the help of decor. Terracotta products, garden sculptures and figurines, ceramic kitchen utensils and textile canopies can become an important touch in the design. But plants should still play the greatest role among accessories: we should not forget that the Mediterranean style is hardly the most active of all modern trends in landscape design using potted gardens and tub plants.

Even the most heat-loving trees and shrubs can be grown in containers, citrus fruits and laurels, agapanthus, pomegranates and olive trees can be introduced into the design of the garden. And colorful petunias, spicy potted herbs, ampelous begonias and verbena lobelias will only add bright accents. The more pots and tubs you can use, the better. Decorate them with high walls and coasters, flower beds and paths, put them along walls and fences and on terraces or recreation areas - in such quantity that you can only take care of.

The speaking name of the landscape style evokes thoughts of a warm, gentle sea, many flowering plants and exterior items. A more severe climate cannot boast of such an abundance, but this is not a reason to refuse the elegant decoration of a personal plot. The disadvantages of cold weather are compensated by an abundance of stone (both natural and artificial), and subtropical plants adapt to the domestic climate in decorative clay vases and huge flowerpots. The material for garden paths and terraces is dominated by tiles and marble chips.

Mediterranean style - all kinds of stairs, retaining walls and original forms in cutting trees and shrubs. This style makes special, unlike others, a surprisingly harmonious combination of modernity and elements of ancient art (Rome and Ancient Greece). The design of the suburban area is extraordinary and memorable. The main difference from other style directions is the almost complete absence of a lawn. Flowers and other plants are planted in hanging pots, ceramic flowerpots, floor containers.

Features and basic concept

Externally, the garden with a Mediterranean slope is a fence with blank walls, a small area in which a patio is located. At the core, there is a similarity between the southern and. The preferred color scheme is a combination of terracotta, blue, light blue, yellow, purple and white. This is an impeccable decoration for a backyard with a hilly landscape: mountainous shores, ponds, stones.

An important place in landscape design is occupied by interaction with nature itself, the contemplation of its boundlessness and beauty. For this, open gazebos and verandas are being built. The Mediterranean courtyard is probably lined with ceramic tiles imitating the color of clay, or with light-colored stone. Mandatory is the element of water, its noise. Numerous fountains of unusual shapes perfectly fulfill this role.











Another feature of the style is the vastness of the concept of "central part". Here it is vague, and sometimes simply absent. Each area of ​​the site is important and fulfills its purpose. Not necessarily a link or semantic load between the zones. The resting place is surrounded by grapes. Braiding, it creates a pleasant coolness on a hot summer day. This part of the garden, like the rest of the garden, is decorated with bright flowers in beautiful pots.

Popular interior items in the southern style can be Greek and Roman columns, statues and their remains, fragments of pottery, grottoes. And other elements of art that would resemble antiquity. This design technique is called stylization of picturesque ruins. Their construction is a distinctive feature of the style. This technique is harmoniously combined with a fountain that can be built in any part of the garden or courtyard. An exclusive model is created on its own from natural or artificial stone.

The abundance of numerous stone rocks, among which there are natural and man-made origin, is explained by the proximity of the sea coast in the original conditions of the style. Another explanation for rocky motifs is the presence of mountainous terrain in the natural environment. This feature is beautifully beaten with the help of a ladder, a retaining wall, a terraced slope.

The picturesqueness of this design style is multifaceted: lush plants with their rich colors, a skillful combination of elements of antiquity and modernity, abundance and appropriate use of decorative elements.

Recreation areas are famous for their coziness and comfort. Garden furniture is elegant, most often made of wood or forged metal. Having a good time, relaxing and enjoying nature is a guaranteed advantage of the southern garden style. Its regularity, smooth lines, variegated colors, fragrant trees and similarity to "wild nature" create its own microclimate.

What plants and decor elements are used

Regardless of the conditions and climate of the ennobled area, the site should comply with the rules of the Mediterranean style as much as possible. Unfortunately, this is not easy due to snowy and frosty winters. But the true admirers of this style do not despair. Most plants are not planted in the ground, but in a container. Plants practically do not lose their decorative effect, while they perfectly survive the cold climate indoors. To do this, heat-loving trees, shrubs and flowers are planted in clay, ceramic or wooden containers. In the warm season, they are taken out into the yard or garden.

You can not do without the mandatory components of the Mediterranean vegetation:

  • ficus;
  • pistachio;
  • thuja ( , );
  • citrus;
  • oleander;
  • olive;
  • laurel

Considering the local flavor of our countries, it is possible to plant trees and shrubs on the territory with viburnum and magnolia bushes. This is a good protection from the scorching rays of the sun.

The Mediterranean garden introduces, being its founder, the art of topiary. This is a special haircut that transforms hedges into any bizarre shape. Among the original and original forms, spherical and cone-shaped are considered common. Their presence transforms the garden and turns it into an object of attention. They can be both a great backdrop and an extraordinary accent for flower beds.

Variegated and fragrant perennials (roses), and spicy herbs (steppe onion, lemon balm, mint, chicory), drought-resistant flowering shrubs adorn shady areas under trees, with lush crowns. Fragrant flowers and small foliage () line the paths, in addition to the beautiful scenery. Its small fruits - olives - can bring closer to the color of the southern seas. Their taste is somewhat different from traditional types, but they are also edible.

It is impossible to imagine a Mediterranean patio and garden without a terrace, a hedge, a fountain, a stream or a cascade, animal figures, a decorative wall fountain, a cozy indoor patio. The last architectural element is always located in a place protected from the wind. The patio should offer a beautiful view - it can be gardens, lawns, hills, fountains.

The invisible atmosphere of the proximity of the sea is important. To do this, with the help of a play of colors, an association is created: white like sea foam, blue and blue like a sea wave. Furniture and flower pots are decorated in the same color scheme. All materials used in this style should be as simple and natural as possible, like ceramics, straw, clay, stone, wood, reed.