Garden Design: Use Different Plant Heights

Use plants of various heights to create vertical layers and visual interest.  Start with your tallest plants to create a background layer, such as trees and/or tall shrubs.  This layer can also be used to make a wonderful screen.  Next add your mid-height plants, which are usually several feet tall.  Spread them across the planted area to connect the taller layer with lower layers.  Fill across the space to add spatial definition and color and/or texture to the planter.  Depending on how many layers you plan to have, this layer might be a little taller with four layers or a little shorter with three.  If four layers are desired, add a layer of foreground plants that are between 6 inches and 2 feet in height, followed by your front ground level layer of turf or ground covers.  If three layers are desired you might use a slightly taller foreground plant or a shorter mid-height plant if your last layer will be turf or ground cover.  The main thing is to have fun with it.  

Recently planted tropical planter. Picture courtesy of Island Landscape.