How to Plant a French Flower Garden

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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If the idea of a well-tended, intellectual garden appeals to you, consider adding a French flower garden to your property. Eloquent expanses of neatly trimmed borders, carefully planned flowerbeds and showy herbs coaxed into elaborate designs are the staple of this popular gardening style. From the palace of Louis the XIV to Giverny, the style that graces France has some basic guidelines.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Select geometric shapes to display your plantings. Popular for centuries, the formal French garden twists and plaits in symmetrical beauty. Choose small hedges, privet or even bush-type herbs to line your borders. Keep them tightly trimmed.

Step2

Create manicured pathways of lawn or stone between your flowerbeds. Design the path with a special feature at the far end to entice garden visitors. Statues, fountains, a stone garden wall or even a spectacular specimen plant placed at the end will recreate the French style.

Step3

Plant the flowerbeds with masses of bulbs or flowers. English roses are a favorite in French gardens, as well as lavender and fragrant herbs in complex patterns. You can vary the planting of annuals each year, but plan to keep the basic bed design.

Step4

Place a bench or wrought iron bistro table on cobblestone, encouraging guests to enjoy a summertime respite, complete with French wine, artisan bread and aged cheeses. With an eye for detail, the French garden includes an area for relaxation designed strategically to provide privacy and foster romance.

Tips & Warnings

Tending a French flower garden can easily become a daunting task if the garden is not pruned regularly. These formal gardens demand constant attention to keep their geometric beauty.