What is a formal garden?

The art of gardening is a beautiful fusion of the natural world and one’s enthusiasm, providing endless opportunities for designing breathtaking outdoor areas. Although newbies may find the process intimidating, anyone can learn basic tasks like enriching the soil and pruning shrubs with the right guidance. 

In this case, formal gardening is always a good option for people who like an elegant appearance. Formal gardens originated in ancient Egypt and were quite popular in 16th-century Europe. They are distinguished by their symmetry, geometric accuracy and regal beauty. This style emphasises balance and order and was influenced by—Elizabethan, Mughal, Islamic, and Persian traditions. Create your heaven by edging paths carefully, including geometric patterns, and emphasising symmetrical plantings along a central axis. 

 

Types of gardening

Formal gardens

In formal gardens, meticulous planning and symmetry take the centre stage. Inspired by historical designs, a formal garden typically starts with a central focal point, such as a fountain or birdbath. Mirror-image planting—where every side has the same arrangement as the other—is the secret to its elegance. Rectangular forms, clipped hedges, and a well-organised flower bed design are typical characteristics. A sense of grandeur and order is brought to any setting by this style, which often appears in public parks and government buildings.

Informal gardens

In contrast to the strict structure of formal gardens, informal gardens embrace natural shapes and asymmetry. The underlying framework is concealed by plantings that emulate the organic growth of nature. Irregular sites become the canvas for informal gardens, where curved paths and native mixed hedging define boundaries. The emphasis is on celebrating colour and a more relaxed, unrestrained aesthetic.

Wild gardens

In addition to gardening styles, the wild garden challenges formalism and conventional landscaping rules. Pioneered by William Robinson, this style aims to naturalise plants within shrubberies, allowing grass to grow untouched and bulbous plants to scatter like in a wild landscape. Modern iterations include butterfly gardens, bird gardens, and biodiversity parks, embracing the untamed beauty of nature.

See also: Japanese Garden: Types, How To Design And More

 

Formal garden: Advantages

Formal gardens may appear demanding, but they offer distinct advantages:

• It is ideal for small plots, creating space and grandeur.
• Limited plant varieties facilitate easy maintenance.
• Permanent features like trees and shrubs reduce recurring costs.
• A clutter-free, orderly design promotes mental relaxation.
• It is suited for public spaces, universities and government buildings.

 

Planning a formal garden

Accurate planning is crucial for both design and execution of a formal garden:

Preparing the land

• It is ideally set on naturally flat terrain; minor unevenness can be levelled.
• For irregular plots, trim into a regular shape using hedges or walls.
• Plan stepped gardens for significant level differences.

Defining the perimeter

• Square or rectangular plots work but irregular shapes need trimming.
• Tall hedges or walls demarcate the garden, maintaining symmetry.
• The main gate alignment creates the central axis of the garden.

Planning the layout

• Plot a layout on paper with precise measurements.
• Choose a geometrical shape (circle, square, or rectangle).
• Symmetry is key; plan mirror images on either side of the central axis.
• For entertainment and recreation, incorporate open areas and seating arrangements.

 

Formal garden design ideas

A clear structure

Viewed from above or ground level, a clear structure defines formal gardens. Knot the garden with intricate hedge designs create a visual spectacle. Geometric shapes like rectangles, triangles and circles contribute to a formal aesthetic. Parterre gardens exemplify this style with ornate geometric designs, providing a canvas for creativity.

Symmetry in design

Symmetry reigns supreme, offering visual balance. Challenges arise in irregularly shaped plots, but clever design solutions, such as inner walls or hedges, maintain symmetry. Repetition, whether in larger spaces or repeated planting of specific shrubs, adds cohesion and the illusion of space.

Evergreen plants and topiary

Evergreen plants, especially used for hedges and topiaries, provide a constant backdrop. Shapes like cubes, beehives, and hedges add architectural interest. Paths, often running along the main axis, are integral to the design, contributing to bilateral symmetry.

Water in the formal garden

Historically, water features have been central to formal garden design. Rectilinear canals, pools, or fountains cool the space and add visual appeal. Structures and statues, when incorporated, follow the rules of simplicity and balance.

See also: Simple garden ideas to transform your outdoors completely

 

Plants for formal gardens

Creating a formal garden involves careful plant selection. Hedges and topiaries find their counterparts in yew, boxwood, and rosemary. Bushes like thuja and junipers complement the traditional aesthetic, while trees such as crabapple and cherry add height. Annuals like marigolds and perennials like hydrangea contribute to the colour palette. Low-maintenance plants like yucca and agave ensure the garden retains its neat appearance.

 

FAQs

Can I create a formal garden in a small backyard?

Yes, formal gardens are ideal for small plots, providing an impression of space.

Are formal gardens high maintenance?

Formal gardens with permanent features are relatively low maintenance, except for flower beds.

What's the significance of symmetry in formal garden design?

Symmetry imparts a sense of order and balance, the key elements of formal garden aesthetics.

Can informal planting be incorporated into a formal garden?

Yes, combining formal structure with looser, naturalistic planting adds visual interest.

How can I add colour to a formal garden?

Use a restricted colour palette, incorporating two or three harmonious colours for a neat look.

Are there alternative materials for formal garden paths?

While natural stone and brick are traditional, modern designs can use a varied palette of hard landscaping materials.

Is topiary necessary for a formal garden?

While not mandatory, topiary adds a classical touch and structure to formal garden designs.

Can a formal garden include wildlife-friendly elements?

Yes, borders can be filled with pollinator-friendly flowers, attracting bees, butterflies, and birds.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com