Rule of thirds
When you are deciding on how to group your plants in the border, decide if you like the 1/3 full or 1/3 open garden.
I often find the principle of the third rule is way out of sync. A simple way to look at scale is to look at the drawings below. The contrast in the two shapes in the first drawing is strong 1/3 planted 2/3 open, the second drawing being closer in scale 2/3 full 1/3 open.
| Let me show this with planting see below. |  |
The first photograph shows the trees taking the 1/3 planting and the grass and paths taking the 2/3 rule, the result is a very calming feeling with space. The second photograph shows the rule in reverse 2/3 planting and 1/3 open with a small dining area and paths. The result is a feeling of security and being very close to the planting.Neither one of these gardens is out of balance. Look at the photograph and you will see where the balance is out of sync. |  |
The flower bed in the foreground is lost in a bed of green. The same also goes for planting shapes, the photograph above does not have any impact, it does not entice you to look at the garden. Take a look at how height, shape and number of plants can make different visual impact. |  |