Planting location is one of the keys to landscaping success. Because of their different needs different plants do better than others in a specific location.
The North Side
North is the direction of things that relate to the earth. North side is associated with quiet contemplation and viewing gardens. Solid elements, such as large stones, specimen trees and artful features, are appropriate here. It is a natural place for a sculpture, like birdbaths or a rocky dry stream.
Long shadows fall on the north side of a building in the winter, so locate a garden out beyond the reach of gloomy darkness. A wonderful bonus for north-facing gardens is that at midday the sun is always behind you, which ensures that “nature’s spotlight” shines on the object, but never in your eyes.
The East Side
East is the home of the early morning sun and is considered by many cultures to be the auspicious direction. In fact, in ancient times many buildings were sited to face east; many libraries of old were designed so their doors and windows faced the east. This is where the phrase “orient a building” originated. “Orient” means east.
Experienced landscapers recognize that plants grow best facing east because they “wake up” basked in the gentle rays of the morning sun. Vegetables gardens that have a full eastern exposure are bountiful because of the optimal plant growth the east promote.
The South Side
South is the home of the midday sun. The south part of the landscape is the natural place for an open field, a large lawn or an exuberant flower garden. Celebrations featuring brightly colored banners and yellow and orange plants are best here. A good example of this type of landscape is the south lawn of the White House.
The south side of a building is also associated with anything having to do with fire. A garden torch, fire pit, or barbecue is at home here. Interestingly, Vastu, the ancient Indian system concerned with the design of the physical environment, considers land that is elevated in the south and the south west to be the kind of terrain that bestows prosperity.
The West Side
West is the direction of the setting sun and is associated with the end of the day, and the fellowship with family and friends. High canopied trees that lightly shade the west side of the house create the sweetest place to linger at the end of the day. A sunset terrace that catches the long orange-red rays of the setting sun is the best place to socialize.
Water is also associated with the west. Trickling water from a fountain cools the atmosphere on a sunny west-faced patio. Rich reds and dark oranges look especially vibrant in the west.
Gordon landscapers are happy to work in towns such as Lawton, Duncan, Elgin and many more. Give us a call today!
I hope this helps you figure out where things go… see you next time.Â
