For many homeowners, gardens are a separate world cultivated to celebrate a natural aesthetic that complements their personal tastes and preferences.
One of the most compelling yet often undervalued aspects of the garden is the garden path. Garden paths can be beautiful and helpful, leading you through a garden as a trodden, touring path; they can also be practical, allowing you to access flower beds, trees, and other garden spaces more easily. If you are looking for inspiration for your garden path, take a look at the following garden path ideas.
Stepping Stone Walkways
Walking or stepping stones are a traditional garden path for a reason: they create an elegant complement to almost any type of garden. They also lend themselves well to many different garden styles, whether you’re looking to create a simple straight path, a winding path, or something in between. You can even add stone benches or stone sitting rocks along the path; these are great ways to allow garden guests to rest or simply a fantastic spot to sit down with a good book on a sunny afternoon.
Rustic Wood and Gravel
If you would like your garden to have a rustic, natural look, then opt for a gravel base with rustic wood plank overlays. You can use recycled wood boards for an exceptionally rustic look or distress the wood yourself for the ultimate customization. Another benefit of using wood planks? Vine-sprouting plants may sprout up in between the spaces between the wooden boards, adding a natural green touch to your path.
Winding Mulch Paths
A simple, understated winding mulch path can be the perfect complement to a natural garden. When choosing mulch material to create a garden path, opt for wood chip or bark mulch, cocoa bean mulch or cypress bark mulch. These materials are hardier, have more moisture resistance, and will need less frequent care than other types of mulch. Mulch paths look best when they are designed to be natural and curving rather than straight or rigid.
Geometric Brick Squares
If you want to add a strong geometric shape to your garden, you should consider utilizing geometric brick squares. Bricks squares can be made with new or re-purposed bricks; opt for re-purposed materials if you would like something more rustic, and choose new bricks for a fresher look. This garden path style is ideal for straight paths, such as paths leading from the yard into the garden or creating a straight, geometric style path in and around the garden itself. You may also consider matching the bricks used to create the garden path with materials used elsewhere in the garden, such as a brick fence.
Stenciled Concrete Stones
Whether you have an existing concrete stepping stone path or you plan to install a fresh one, stenciled concrete stones add an interesting touch of design, texture and even whimsy to any garden space. This is a great DIY idea that lends itself well to customization, since you can use any stencil and paint color that catches your eye. Don’t forget to seal the paint with a sturdy finish.
If you are looking for garden path ideas that will transform your garden, consider one of the above ideas to help beautify your garden space.