Gilmer's garden design utilizes furnishings that create the illusion of antiquity. Her idea is that the forest has grown up and around lost relics of civilization. With this in mind, it's important that any furnishings -- like the statue head and classical urn shown in figure A -- appear old. Using moss is a great way to help make these things seemed worn or aged. Instructions: - Before you begin positioning any plants or furnishings, clear the area of debris. It may be necessary to remove dead or dying trees and shrubs.
- Brush fish emulsion or organic fertilizer into any nooks or crannies on the outside of an urn or similar furnishing (figure B).
- Using small tufts of moss, stuff the pieces into the brushed areas (figure C ). Over time, the moss will firmly attach itself.
- Use a bench to serve as both a sitting area and as a strong visual element to anchor your garden design. This concrete bench was made to look like hewn granite (figure D). Treating stone furnishings with a paint wash also helps create an older, worn appearance.
- Lay out concrete steps in your desired pattern, being sure to leave space between each. These pavers are concrete, but have been colored and textured to resemble stone (figure E).
- Plant moss between the stepping stones. Irish and Scotch moss have different colors and textures and using both will create an interesting contrast.
Expert tip (Robert Smaus, garden writer): Moss can protect the soil surface from watering by absorbing the impact of the water and slowing the pace evaporation.
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