Gardens in forests are gaining more and more popularity in Poland. The simplicity, harmony and naturalness of a natural forest garden attract many gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
How to set up a natural forest garden and what rules to follow in the process of planning and making one? In the article we explain step by step the rules for natural gardens in the shade of trees.
Types of natural forest gardens, gardens in the forest
Forest gardens can be divided by the ways they are made. Two types of such gardens can be distinguished. In the first one trees are used that already cover the area where the garden is planned. The second type of natural forest gardens involves tree planting along with the design of the lower level of vegetation. Each way of setting up a forest garden has its pros and cons; still, more often than not, forest gardens are made in areas that are already overgrown with trees.
The basic rules for a natural forest garden, a garden in the forest
Forest gardens should not deviate too much from the nature found in the area before the garden is established. Keeping the landscape and modifications in harmony with the plants that already grow in the area will yield the best results.
Natural forest gardens look best in large areas. If you have a small plot of land that you intend to convert into a forest garden, keep in mind that this project will not fully reflect the strength that lies in the trees. Sizeable plots are definitely better suited for establishing forest gardens.
- Matching plants to the tree type
If the plot has a large number of coniferous shrubs or trees, then, in all likelihood, the soil of the future forest garden is highly acidic. In such a case, it is not worth fighting it and applying liming agents – it will not help, and may even cause tree disease. A much better solution is to match plants that find their way into acidic soil.
- Forest garden is not just shade
As a rule, natural forest gardens or forest gardens are much more shady than other garden projects. Nevertheless, it might be a good idea to keep some sunny areas – this will keep the garden diverse and a little more versatile.
- Water facilities should fit the dimensions of the garden
If your forest garden is not all that big, small ornamental ponds created in harmony with the forest climate and ecosystem will work better in these surroundings. If you can afford a sizeable garden, a regular pond is a much better option than an ornamental one.
Stages of building natural forest gardens
Before cutting down trees or shrubs, as well as other old plants, just think it over a hundred times whether the plant will actually spoil the landscape. To better plan your garden, transfer all major points and plants to a 1:200 or 1:100 scale map.
Also remember to properly prepare the ground for your future natural forest garden. It is worth focusing on removing weeds, as well as fertilizing, draining and digging the soil. Properly prepared ground is essential for a great-looking garden.
Before doing the planting, decide on the locations of landscaping elements – hearths, gazebos, fences, ornamental ponds or regular ponds. Only after landscaping elements are in place, can you proceed with planting.
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