Diary of a Gardener: What’s Your Garden Style? Tropical, Cottage, Moon Garden & More”
Do you prefer the structured elegance of a formal garden, like the classic gardens of Versailles? Or maybe a cottage garden’s informal charm and mix of flowers, herbs, and edibles speaks to you? Perhaps you’re drawn to the serene beauty of a moon garden with its white blooms and fragrant nights—or you love the idea of a naturalistic native garden that feels like a slice of wild Florida.
Maybe you’re a fan of the lush vibrancy of a tropical garden, or perhaps you live in an HOA with strict landscaping guidelines and wonder how your style fits in.
No matter what your style is—or even if you have HOA rules—your landscaping doesn’t have to be stale or boring. It should reflect your personality and vision for your outdoor space.
No Style Is Wrong
There’s no right or wrong garden style. Each has pros and cons, and some require more maintenance than others. But in the end, it’s your garden, and your style is what matters most.
A Quick Guide to Popular Garden Styles
Traditional/Formal Garden
Highly structured and symmetrical, focusing on order, balance, and geometric shapes. Think neatly trimmed hedges, straight paths, and focal points like fountains or statues. This timeless style is inspired by classical European gardens.
Cottage/English Garden
Relaxed, romantic, and lush, featuring a mix of flowers, herbs, and edibles growing together in overflowing borders and curving paths. It’s fragrant, pollinator-friendly, and full of whimsical charm.
Naturalistic Native Garden
Mimics local wild landscapes using native plants. Informal and free-flowing, it supports local wildlife with clusters of native grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs. Low-maintenance and ecologically rich.
Tropical Garden
A vibrant, jungle-like escape with bold foliage (like banana and elephant ear), bright exotic flowers, layered planting, and often water features. Perfect for warm climates like Florida.
HOA Garden
Neat, uniform, and compliant with community rules. Features low-maintenance, non-invasive plants with tidy edges and coordinated colors. Designed for curb appeal and order without standing out.
Making Any Style Your Own
Even with HOA rules, you can add personality to your garden! Choose loosely growing shrubs instead of strict hedges, add soft flower borders instead of hard edges, and incorporate native plants that fit guidelines. There are many ways to create a space that feels uniquely you.
What’s Your Favorite?
Personally, I love an English-style garden—romantic, abundant, and full of life. I believe gardens should match our personalities and often reflect the interior style of our homes.
No matter your choice, just remember a few important tips:
Avoid invasive plants.
Follow the principle of “right plant, right place.”
Choose plants suited to your climate zone (I’m in zone 10a).
Incorporate as many native plants as possible—even hedges can be native!
Not sure which style fits you or how to bring your garden vision to life? I’m here to help.
