A Rustic Garden Blog

With all of the choices in fencing out there today choosing a barrier that is both functional and eye-catching while maintaining a vintage decor can be difficult.  Many classic homes need the timeless look of wrought iron fencing that can be that perfect fit and look like it has been in place for decades. 

Whether we need to keep our pets from wandering the neighborhood or keep the neighborhood kids from trampling our flower beds, a fence is often a necessity rather than a luxury.  A wrought iron fence will have your friends asking you where you salvaged the old fencing from.

Living in Rural Illinois has its advantages. Many of the old farm buildings are falling down.  I had a neighbor that was no longer using one of the smaller structures that was still intact on their farm.  This darling little building was constructed during the early 1900’s for use as the Hen House. What character the carpenters put into their work!

This 12’ x 24’ building has two rooms and three doors. Two of the doors are unique with arched entries. The widows hinge down for ventilation during warm weather and fold up on cold windy days.

Shortly after deciding to market rustic garden fencing, arbors and cast iron urns I found that I needed another structure to add interest to our landscaping here at A Rustic Garden. My husband and I moved this hen house on a trailer 10 miles early on a Sunday Morning when there was little traffic on the highway. Well, we did not get pulled over by the highway patrol and now have it here out by our fish pond helping display our garden décor.

Saving the Old Hen House became the key ingredient to A Rustic Garden’s landscape.

Whether it’s a fountain, pond, or birdbath, water adds an entire new element to an outdoor garden.  Having a water source in the garden will draw a multitude of different creatures, and can also enhance the owner’s own perception of the space.  With a garden fountain, the sound of running water will serve as a source of soothing and calming.  Garden ponds take a bit of maintenance, but can also be fantastic additions.  With a pond it’s possible to have water plants, as well as animals like koi, frogs, and even turtles.  Growing water plants and taking care of water creatures can be a delight, and add a whole new aesthetic to the garden.  Birdbaths will encourage birds to come to the garden, just remember to place them in a secluded location with cover nearby, or the birds might be too shy to bathe! 

Water is one of the essential components of life, and having water in the garden gives the outdoor space a whole new dynamic.  You’ll love lounging in the garden and listening to or watching the water and all the creatures it’s sure to attract.

It seems that spring has finally arrived and it is time to start planting flowers.  Some flowers that work well in a large garden urn would be wave petunias and dragon wing begonias.  For a contrast of color you can add a few sweet potato vines.  All of these flowers will enjoy lots of sunlight.

When choosing a container for planting there are many options but cast iron urns often work best because they will endure the elements and give an antique look that will fit in with any décor.  Planting flowers can be a family event so have fun with it.

When choosing a new window box planter it is essential that you have all the information in front of you. First off, there are many materials available to choose from: wood, vinyl, PVC, fiberglass, aluminum, wrought-iron, and copper to name a few. Window boxes planters have been around for centuries and they’re an affordable solution to planting and gardening.

With so many new materials on the market it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages to all of your choices. Whether you’re look for affordability, low maintenance, or a distinct look, window box gardening can be a fun hobby that brings lots of joy into your life.

When it comes to decorating the backyard, it’s important to strike a balance between nature and the manmade.  The most beautiful gardens incorporate plant life and structures like gazebos, benches, and swings.  The first step to creating an ideal garden is to set down a solid base on which to build.  You want to be able to expand the garden, so it’s important to leave a few vacant spaces.  Don’t be concerned with covering the entire garden with flowers, plants, and structures, instead start to develop those areas that seem to have potential.  You can always add more later when inspired, it’s removing that can be a little difficult. 

Once you’ve found an area or multiple areas that have potential, take your ideas and run with them.  Make sure to address all aspects of gardening; think about flowers, plants, trees, shrubs, stonework, structures, metalwork, etc.  You can create a relaxing retreat with a wrought iron gazebo surrounded with flowers that will attract hummingbirds, or develop a private corner of the garden incorporating a shady tree and a garden swing.  There are infinite possibilities limited only by the gardener’s imagination!