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17 September 2014
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how to be a gardener - The complete online guide

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8 - Design points
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Location
The best location for a natural garden is at the back of the garden; in this area wildlife is less likely to be disturbed, and it will not detract from more ordered design features close to the house.
Au natural
Wildlife gardens shouldn’t look designed. Use flowing asymmetrical curves and circles to provide a journey through the garden. Plants should form the focal points in the garden.

The most effective way to make a natural garden look as if it just ‘happened’ is to work with what is already there. If there’s a good tree or a bit of old hedgerow it is best to incorporate it in your design. Finally, keep hard landscaping to a minimum.
Pathways
Pathways
Pathways can be created through the wildlife area. Choose natural materials, such as wooden steps, bark chippings or natural stone.

Wooden steps, split logs for edging paths and log-slice stepping-stones are perfect for woodland areas. Bark chippings make a good surface for woodland paths and clearings as they smother weeds and are soft to walk on. Stone can look good if carefully positioned, but try to use local material that blends in with the surroundings.
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8. Natural garden

Introduction
The natural look
Design points
Top ten plants
Natural planting
Trees

Highlights
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