A hardscape is always in season , and Jerry Fritz has create versions of his key signature live terrace for many happy clients over the year . The concept is deceptively simple : large flagstones create open blank space , a natural transition between place and garden . Ground covers and rock ‘n’ roll garden plants replete the gaps between pit and soften the edge of the terrace , tie it into the surrounding bed . Here are some tip for adding one of these well-situated outdoor life spaces to your landscape painting .
1. Use heavy, flat slabs of stone
The gravid the stone , the less potential they will be to shift and become activate hazards . Include a few stones with shallow indentations to catch rainwater for birds to toast and bathe in .
2. Keep the center low
terra firma cover used in the middle of the patio should be low - growing and able-bodied to brook some foot dealings .
3. Add volume at the edges
Where the patio fulfil surrounding beds , plants can be taller . Use shrubs and small tree to define the perimeter .
Pro Tip: Fill gaps with ground covers
earth covers sold in 6- or 8 - in mint can be broken down into smaller pieces to fill up spaces between stones . simply take the plant out of its pot and habituate a sharp knife to cut off all but the top 2 column inch of the root ball . cut this plant material into smaller pieces , and insert them into the space between stone . they will quickly root into the screening stuff .
Carol Collins is the associate editor .
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Photo: Carol Collins
Photo: courtesy of Jerry Fritz Garden Design
