There is great power through planting in drifts. Sometimes as gardeners we are a bit tentative and plant in ones and twos and so our garden becomes a bit of a hotch potch. However, if we can be bold and plant in large groups and drifts, the effect can be very impressive.

Tips for Planting in Groups

• Even in small gardens don’t be shy to plant in large groups.
• The above photo is taken from Oxford Botanic Gardens and shows some purple ornamental onions flowering in May. This is a herbaceous border which focuses on large drifts of plants. At any one time, there may only be 1 or 2 plants in flower; but the theme creates an impressive display.
• Use groups of the same plant or of similar structure.
• The leaves on the group below show how planting for shape and texture can be just as important as colour.

Tips for Planting in Drifts.

• If you buy a large number of plants the average cost will be cheaper, you can benefit from economies of scale.
• Don’t just plant in regimented blocks and straight lines, allow the groups to merge into each other and plant in S shapes. This helps create a more natural look.
• Don’t just focus on the flowers but think of plants that provide all year round architectural interest.
• The top photo shows a planting scheme carefully chosen to concentrate on a particular colour theme. This creates a calming effect. It is good to have some aspect of the garden with these conservative planting rather than always focusing on bright colour.
• The photo below shows the use on one species, Primula candelabra, to provide the drifts unity and colour themes.