How to Get Free Garden Plans

Garden design is an art form. For many gardeners it is a form of self expression. But, even the greatest artists sometimes need inspiration and, fortunately, it is just a click away on your computer. Free garden plans are available on the Internet if you know where to look and how to access these free plans for your garden.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Log on to the "Better Homes and Garden" website. A one-time registration is required, but it's free and you'll have access to dozens of inspiring garden plans.

2. Visit Garden Gate Magazine's "Garden Plans." Click the box on the left side of the page that says, "Free Garden Plans." Instructions on how to build a cold frame, butterfly house and garden bench are also available.

3. View the "HGTV" website. The gardening section is full of great ideas. Log on to get a free meditation garden design specifically for your region of the country.

4. Thumb through the pages of the "Old Farmer's Almanac" online. In the gardening section, look for instructions on how to build a knot garden, or parterre.

5. Gather some ideas from Spring Hill Nurseries. Many online nursery websites offer packaged inspiration for your garden. You can purchase the plants and get a detailed plant list and planting instructions all in one place.

6. Add some structure to your garden. Free woodworking plans on the Internet can help provide interest to the garden. Build a bench, arbor, birdhouse or even a compost bin.

Tips & Warnings

• When looking for free garden plans with an Internet search engine, try entering some different word combinations for more results. Some suggested combinations are: free garden designs; free landscape plans and free flower bed designs.
• Winter is a great time to plan next year's garden projects. Write for plant catalogues, request newsletters from Internet garden sites and make your shopping list.
• Free garden plans are available off the Internet, too. Some of the "big box" home improvement stores have extensive garden centers and often have some free sample plans. Spring is the best time to check for these. Your local Extension Service may also be able to provide planting suggestions.
• Some websites may provide a design picture, but ask for a small payment to get a complete design including a plant list and construction guide. Before limiting yourself to totally free designs, consider what the cost would be to hire a landscaper or to correct a landscaping error.