Episode: #8 21/10/2006
Presenter: Dean Boone

Every garden needs a focal point and at Eden Gardens, in North Ryde, the friendly staff have created tonnes of inspirational ideas and beautiful displays ready for you to enjoy.

A focal point is a design term for anything that draws the eye and becomes the centre of attention. In many gardens, that focus is on garden art, like a truly fantastic pot or a plant selection that really stands out. Over scaling your focal point is a great way to make a statement.

The bronze pelican is a work of art and would sit proudly in any garden display, or, the African sculptures, designed in Australia by Aaron Jackson, come in a variety of sizes and no two are the same. Eden Gardens can also offer you storks, dragonflies, kingfishers and some really funky flowers.

A design trend for some time has been towards the Asian influence of our pacific neighbours. The wood hut is a focal point on its own and you can add further authenticity with a range of sculptures including monk statues, timber wall plaques and giant buddas and add some Japanese maples for good measure.

Colourful pots can also make a great statement, and they won?t cost you the earth. Dean suggests creating a theme in your garden of one colour and repeating it, and don?t forget to do the same with your planting. You can also use the same coloured pot in different sizes and shapes to build further interest. Repetition is the key to success.

What about some Zen in the garden. Tranquillity can be created with the right focal points. Stylish water bowls and natural cascades go hand in hand with some garden favourites like New Guinea Impatiens, Hydrangeas and Bougainvilleas.

What can you do if all this information is sensory overload? Then keep it simple. A single, beautiful focal point can be the centre of any garden and will give you years of pleasure. A focal point will be seen every day and is a piece of art in the garden, so purchase something you truly love.

The wonderful displays are there for you to enjoy everyday at Eden Gardens and there is a whole lot more to inspire you. Everywhere you look is another solution on how to make your garden look great. It is an inspirational place for ideas and you can pick up your own little piece art when you visit.

Eden Gardens are offering you another incentive to drop by. Join the garden club this month, and mention The Garden Gurus, and you will go into the draw to receive a free garden design consultation with Dean. Together, you can create some fantastic ideas for your garden, including how to place and make the most of your focal point.

Eden Gardens
www.edengardens.com.au
Cnr Lane Cove and Fontenoy Roads
North Ryde NSW 2113 Australia 
info@edengardens.com.au
Ph 02 9491 9900
Fax 02 9491 9911

Open 8.30am to 5.00pm - 7 days a week