Discover the enchanting world of blue foliage plants that can transform your garden into a serene oasis. These botanical wonders offer a unique visual appeal that stands out against the lush greens commonly found in garden landscapes. With their striking hues, they are perfect for creating a cooling effect during the hot summer months, complementing the azure skies above. Dive into our selection of the most captivating blue foliage cultivars and learn how to cultivate them for maximum impact.
Blue foliage plants can provide a stunning visual contrast in your garden, especially during the summer when their hues are accentuated by the bright skies. The right selection of blue plants can offer a refreshing coolness to your landscape and create a tranquil atmosphere.
Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens', commonly known as Honeywort, is an annual that can reach up to 60 centimeters in height. Its foliage transitions between shades of blue and turquoise during spring and summer, providing a dynamic display. The plant is adorned with bright purple flowers featuring a vivid yellow center, complemented by purple bracts at the base. Honeywort is a magnet for bees and benefits from regular cutting. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, showing adaptability to various pH levels (Missouri Botanical Garden).
'Elijah Blue' is a compact, evergreen ornamental grass that forms clumps of striking blue, wiry foliage about 20 centimeters tall. In summer, it produces blue-green flowers that turn pale brown in autumn. These blooms are subtle, allowing the foliage to remain the star attraction. This low-maintenance plant is resilient, tolerating a wide range of environments and pH levels (Royal Horticultural Society).
For those seeking a larger blue foliage plant, Blue Oat Grass is an excellent choice. This evergreen grass grows in dense tufts, reaching about 1.4 meters tall, with blue or silver-toned leaves throughout the year. It produces brown flowers in summer if grown in full sun. Blue Oat Grass is hardy and can prosper in most conditions, including poor soil, though it prefers alkaline soil. Propagation is easily done by division after flowering in mid-summer.
'Hadspen Blue' is a small, low-maintenance herbaceous perennial that grows up to 35 centimeters in 2-5 years. It has smooth, blue-grey, heart-shaped leaves and bears bell-shaped, mauve flowers in summer. This clump-forming plant does best in heavy clay or loam soils and prefers a sheltered spot with an acidic pH. Interestingly, blue-leafed Hostas are less appealing to slugs and snails, making 'Hadspen Blue' a potentially less troubled choice for gardeners.
The 'Blue Star' Juniper is a dwarf coniferous shrub with bright blue, needle-like foliage that forms a dense, low mound. It provides year-round color and is particularly striking when planted in large groups. With a maximum height and spread of 50 centimeters and 1 meter, respectively, this hardy plant can thrive in any well-drained soil and tolerates hot, sunny sites. However, it is toxic, so caution is advised around children and pets.
Incorporating blue foliage into your garden can create a serene and elegant atmosphere, reflecting the beauty of clear summer skies. These plants offer a refreshing visual break from the traditional greenery and can be a highlight of your garden's design.
Chelsea 2012 – The People’s Champions
In the verdant realm of the Chelsea Flower Show, the People's Choice Awards stand out as a testament to public admiration and participation. In 2012, the Royal Horticultural Society celebrated the voices of thousands who cast their votes, culminating in a remarkable year for the awards. The Arthritis Research UK Garden, crafted by Tom Hoblyn, and The Bronte’s Yorkshire Garden, envisioned by Tracy Foster, emerged as the favorites, each reflecting a unique narrative and design philosophy that resonated with the masses.
A Blossoming Legacy: The Chelsea Flower Show 2012
The Chelsea Flower Show of 2012 not only marked a milestone for the event itself but also for one of its garden sponsors, Brewin Dolphin, as they celebrated a remarkable 250 years in business. This prestigious horticultural event, with its rich history and evolution, has become a cornerstone of British culture, attracting visitors and exhibitors from around the globe. Let's delve into the origins of the Chelsea Flower Show, its journey through time, and the highlights of the 2012 edition, including innovative garden designs and the introduction of a new category that captivated attendees.
Elevating Outdoor Living to Luxurious Heights
Transform your outdoor space into a luxurious oasis with high-end additions that blend comfort, style, and nature. From extravagant furniture to bespoke garden structures, investing in your garden can be as rewarding as upgrading your home's interior. Discover how to create an opulent outdoor sanctuary that reflects your taste and enhances your lifestyle.
