Rustic Garden Decorating Ideas

Last Updated on April 8, 2022 by Ellen Christian

I just love a rustic garden! Now that summer is in full swing here in rural Vermont, I have been enjoying my garden more and more each day. There is nothing more relaxing than wandering around the garden enjoying the flowers and the sunshine. Summer doesn’t last that long here. And, I want to enjoy it as much as I can.

Rustic Garden Decorating Ideas

There are lots of different types of gardens. But, for me, a rustic garden is one of my very favorites. Of course, everyone will have their own definition of what a rustic garden actually is. For me, it is a garden that has lots of natural wood accents and an unstructured layout. Borders are less strict. Plants are more casual. And, the design might remind you a bit of what nature would do herself.

So, what would you put in a rustic garden? Honestly, you could put a variety of different elements into your rustic garden. You might want to consider things like an arbor, a trellis, a cobblestone path, a rustic garden gate, or even a gazebo if you have the room.

A country garden is more likely to feature wrought iron and natural wood. But, you may also want to add a few tiny touches like fairy doors, birdbaths, and wind chimes. And, of course, a garden wouldn’t be complete without flowers. Check out the best plants to grow on a trellis.

Many rustic gardens are smaller gardens with a country cottage feel rather than the acre wide sprawling garden in a larger home. So, it’s often a good idea to look for miniature plants so you can get the most color and variety. Here are a few suggestions.

Rustic Garden Flower Suggestions

Check out these flowers that can take full sun all day long. Add a few of them to your garden this year.

Impatiens

Not only are impatiens petite, but they can grow in both sun and shade. They come in a variety of colors such as pink, peach, purple, and white, and won’t get bigger than about 2 inches tall and an inch in diameter. Try some in your rustic garden if you are limited on sun and space.

Marigolds

Like impatiens, marigolds also grow about 2 inches in height and an inch in diameter. You won’t get as much of a color assortment since marigolds come in only yellow and orange, but they are ideal for keeping rabbits away and attracting pollinators. If you have a rustic garden in the country, this is a definite plus. Remember, galvanized buckets make great containers for your favorite annuals.

Mouse Ear Hostas

There is a reason that this type of hosta is called Mouse Ears…because the foliage is super tiny! This bluish hosta is easy to grow, does well in shade, and the foliage doesn’t get much larger than the size of a quarter. It is ideal for borders and is a perennial that will return year after year.

African Violets

There are many kinds of African Violets out there, and whichever variety you choose you will find that the blooms remain petite. Choose from shades of purple, white, and pink, and enjoy the soft furry foliage. African violets are perfect for container gardens and add interest to rustic fairy gardens as well.

Succulents

Succulents are very, very slow-growing, making them ideal for small spaces. You can plant succulent starts that are as little as an inch in diameter. They come in all sorts of hues from green to blue, to red, and can be used in both indoor and outdoor container and fairy gardens. If your rustic garden is in a warmer climate, this is an ideal choice.

Chamomile

Chamomile offers super petite yellow blooms, and the foliage can be used in teas, tinctures, and beauty products as well! Plus, chamomile is perfect for growing in pots and rustic gardens, as it offers color and soft foliage without taking up a huge amount of space. Plus, there are perennial varieties that will come back year after year.

Begonias

Like impatiens, begonias are ideal for low light, small spaces. They come in shades of red, pink, and white, and offer purple and dark green foliage. They don’t require full sun, and can grow in pots, borders, window boxes, fairy gardens and more! Here are some cute ideas for how to make a fairy garden.

Rustic Garden Decor Ideas

So, if you need a few more rustic garden ideas, why not try adding:

• Rustic garden gate
• A rustic garden arbor
• Wrought iron sundial
• Birdbath
• Fairy Door

So, what will you put in your garden?

If you’d like more gardening inspiration, take a minute to visit DIY Idea Center for National Gardening Month. And, be sure to sign up for their updates.