Tuck in a Garden Lizard for a Fun Surprise

I love walking through a garden a discovering something unexpected. It's like finding a hidden treasure and I enjoy the element of surprise.  One of the best parts about gardens for me is that there always seems to be perfect little spaces to put things in - under plants, beside or in a tree, in rock wall crevices, around a corner, popping out of a plant - the possibilities are endless. Here this colorful and whimsical lizard peeks from underneath a plant to find you.

Garden lizard crawls out to say "Hi."

Colorful Boxes Make Your Garden Wall Pop

Create a colorful garden wall display this summer by painting wooden boxes in different colors to showcase your plants, bird houses, small garden statues, other garden accents, tools and more.  This bright arrangement draws your attention to the many items placed on the shelves and gives each its own space and special attention.  It is also a great way to organize and house cherished items.

From plain while to garden inspired and bright.

Use White Lanterns To Light Your Garden This Summer

Summer nears and it's time to brighten things up by day and night with striking white lanterns.  Lanterns are decorative and functional and therefore widely used in gardens, landscapes, entryways, and homes. They can be placed along a path to light the pathway or direct guests to an entry. Hung from tress, they light the area below, as well as provide uplighting for the tree for a sensational effect. They adorn tables during the day, while providing light for conversation or reading at night.  Lanterns are ideal decorations and lighting for outdoor or garden parties and weddings.  Place them throughout the garden and/or hang them from a gazebo, pergola, or tent to WOW your guests.  Bright white lanterns are perfect for summer, but can be used year-round. They easily fit in any decor with coordinating color placed nearby or around their base.  In addition, they are a fantastic decorative accent indoors and make wonderful table centerpieces. They are one of those "must have" garden accents given their many different uses. And, if you are ever not using them, I'm sure your friends or family would love to borrow them because they are always a hit!

Large White Metal Garden Lantern.

Birdbaths Are Great Amusement And Garden Accents

Summer is coming and the birds are going to need a place to cool off too as the weather heats up.  Incorporate a birdbath, like this beautiful antique iron birdbath, for a great garden accent and endless amusement. Watching birds frolicking in the water is both relaxing and enjoyable. Once the birds know it is there, they will come back time and again and by keeping the birdbath cleaned and filled both you and the birds will have hours of fun all summer long. However, since standing water can attract mosquitoes, place it in a spot in your garden where that won’t be a problem and refresh it every couple of days.

Honor Service & Show Your Pride with a Garden Flag This Memorial Day

In the United States, we celebrate Memorial Day to honor and remember the men and women who died while serving our county in the Armed Forces.  It began after our Civil War to respect both Union and Confederate soldiers and was later expanded to pay tribute to all Americans who died during their military service.  It is officially celebrated on the last Monday in May.

At many locations across our great nation, the United States flag is swiftly raised to the top of the staff and then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position in reverence for our soldiers until noon.  It is then raised to the full-staff position again for the remainder of the day to signify our resolve that we will not let their sacrifice be in vein and will continue to stand up and fight for liberty and justice for all.

We also proudly display the American flag at our homes, placing it in our yards and gardens, as well as at grave sites, to our honor these men and women for their service to our country and in support of the United States of America.  

So, pull out or purchase an American flag this week in preparation for Memorial Day next Monday, May 27, 2013.

American Flag Garden Flags with Different Holders.

Create A Fantasy Garden with Gnomes

The history of gnomes began in 19th-century Germany where they were known as Gartenzwerg (garden dwarf). According to Wikipedia, the term "gnome" in English is first attested to in the 1930s and has clearly taken hold.  Basically, gnomes are small, human like figurines wearing a pointy hat.  

Early stories of Eastern and Western European folk tale talk of both benevolent and malevolent characters, however, many stories exist that depict gnomes as helpful, caring creatures that look after gardens. They are often considered "protectors" of the garden. 

Today, these enchanting little helpers are still a popular and sophisticated garden addition.  There are many manufactures and different styles to choose from. These are a few of the adorable gnomes we carry.

Garden Gnomes Tending to the Garden -Well, Some Are.

Cute Container Planter Adds Charm

The cute planter combines half of a whisky barrel, flowers, and a cone shaped spruce to create this welcoming garden accent.  Here it lines a walkway, however, it can be used in many different locations for a bit of country charm.  Barrels such as these can be found at many local hardware stores with garden centers.    While it only takes a little effort to plant them up, the results are tremendous.

Container Planter from Sisters, Oregon

Feed the Birds for Hours of Fun

You give a little and you get a lot in return with a bird feeder.  Hang this good-looking vine gazebo bird feeder in the garden, fill it with bird seed, sit back and enjoy all of the fun. Or, if you're like me, sit way back, with camera in hand on high zoom, and take great photographic shots of our feathered friends.  A little investment in bird seed goes a long way, giving you both economical and relaxing outdoor entertainment.

Mosaic Fountain Added to Garden Planter Enhances View Inside & Out

This affordable mosaic fountain in pineapple design would be a wonderful addition for many gardens.  Below we showcase how this fountain is used to enhance interior and exterior views.  Looking out from the inside, the fountain, improves the view from the window by giving owners and guests a decorative feature to look at and enjoy.  Outside, the fountain fills a gap in the side planter, adds a pleasing water element, offers soothing sounds to help people relax, and provides a place for birds to get a cool drink and play.

Fountains Are Great Additions For Your Home

Need an Impressive Garden Accent? Go Fish!

One of things I love most about garden decorating is that you are already working with a vibrant, living canvas - the garden.  Given this, sometimes all that is needed is a well-placed attractive element to draw one's eye.  This is illustrated in the picture below that simply incorporates a spectacular fish.   Not your style? No problem, "Go fish!" and pick an accent that's right for you.

This Is One Attention Grabbing Fish

Stepping Stones with a Message

Decorative stepping stones with a message personalize your garden, adding inspiration, meaning and giving insight into the owner's life.  They can bring joy, honor a loved one or cherished pet, celebrate a special occasion, and more. They deliver special sentiments that connect those who read them with the owner in a heartfelt moment and make wonderful gifts.

A Simple Message Creates A Memorable Space

Use a Container Planter to Make Your Column or Wall Outstanding

Container planters are great for many things, including decorating columns and walls.  They instantly change the look, adding color, charm and sophistication. Bowls, like the one shown, are extremely popular, as are square and wok styles.  They come in a variety of materials (such as ceramic, cement, fiberglass, plastic, rock and stone), colors, sizes, and prices.  Select a complimentary style and enjoy the results.  You can see the difference a container planter makes in the picture below.

This container planter transforms this apace.

Adorn Your Garden with a Glass Plate Birdbath for Hours of Fun

In my view, a birdbath is a must for every garden.  Who doesn't love watching birds flutter around as they take a bath.  It is mesmerizing and great fun for children and adults.

We carry these and other glass plate birdbath styles because they are such a big hit.  They come in so many gorgeous designs and colors that it is easy to find one that fits with your garden style. Some even include a solar lighting, making the colorful plate shine in the garden at night and contributing to your overall garden lighting. Stands for these come in tall and tabletop for design flexibility and your viewing enjoyment.  They also make great gifts for the garden enthusiasts and bird watchers in your life.

If you don't have a birdbath in your garden, please consider one.  The joy they bring is immeasurable.

Glass birdbaths in Tiffany, Dragonfly, Butterfly & English Garden designs.

Make Your Garden Pop with Colorful Pots

Colorful and decorative pots are a fantastic way to make your garden pop. The pots do not have to be planted or made into a fountain to impress.  They can add flair all by themselves and can instantly elevate your garden from a planted space to a designed space.  Select pots in shapes, heights, colors and designs that accentuate existing plants and have fun!

P.S.  When placing pots, please also think about how the area will be maintained and ensure they are appropriately protected.

Colorful pots transform this tropical garden.

Top 13 Garden Accents / Décor for Instant Upgrades

A little shopping for the garden goes a long way and adds a great deal of enjoyment.  Chose from one of these thirteen ideas for a quick and cost-effective garden pick-me-up.

1.       Fountain

2.       Statue(s)

3.       Bench

4.       Trellis

5.       Eye-catching Pot(s)/Planter(s)

6.       Solar Lights

7.       Gazing Ball

8.       Bird Bath

9.       Bird Feeder

10.   Decorative Stake(s)

11.   Garden Flag

12.   Stepping Stone(s)

13.   Wind chime 

Fun Garden Flamingos

Ain't nothing like the real. While that is true, these pink garden flamingos come close and without all of the work! Create a bright spot in your yard with these fun birds.

Right: Resort Flamingo; Left: Perfect Home Flamingos

Garden Angels Add Light and Reflect Grace

Garden Angels are great for lifting spirits and reflecting grace.  This adorable and sweet Angel garden statue features bright colors and flowers to bring the blessing of added joy to your garden.

Garden Angel Statue.

Water Globes for Potted Plants

Check out this new twist on water globes - bird globes.  Too cute!  I must say that I am a huge fan of water globes. They save me from running around watering all of the potted plants every day and ensure my plants live longer.  And, these blue birds are adorable; the perfect addition for every potted plant.

Bird water globes save you time!

Use Art To Create A Mood In Your Garden

Whatever your style, from European statues to contemporary art, adding a piece of art to your garden adds interest, meaning, and sets the mood.   It completely changes the atmosphere.  It may invoke contemplation, reflection, a smile, and more. Embellish your garden with art that inspires you.

Contemporary art as focal point of entry planter.

Garden Design: Color and Creativity Catch One's Eye

A table here, a chair there, a cute planter and small decorative element and Voila!, you have a simple, but attractive garden vignette in a just a few feet of space.  Are you thinking what I am thinking, wondering what is sitting in the garage that can be re-purposed for the garden?  It gets my mind going.

A Tough of Color Makes A World of Difference